Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies are soft in the center, slightly crisp at the edges, and loaded with gooey chocolate chips. This classic treat balances sweetness, chewiness, and buttery richness for a cookie that satisfies every craving. Whether served warm with a glass of milk or packed for a snack, these cookies never disappoint.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flourbaking sodaunsalted buttersaltbrown sugarsugarvanilla extractlarge eggssemisweet chocolate chipsoptional: chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

In a separate large bowl, cream the butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy.

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Fold in the chocolate chips and optional nuts.

Scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them a few inches apart on the baking sheet.

Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are still soft.

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 9–11 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use dark or milk chocolate chips for different sweetness levels.
Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before baking.
Use browned butter for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
Swap in white chocolate and dried cranberries for a twist.

storage/reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freeze cookie dough balls for up to 2 months; bake straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes.
To refresh baked cookies, microwave for 5–7 seconds.

FAQs

Can I chill the dough before baking?
Yes, chilling enhances flavor and prevents excessive spreading.

Why are my cookies flat?
The butter may have been too warm—chill the dough or check your leavening agents.

Can I make these cookies chewy?
Use more brown sugar than white sugar for extra chewiness.

Are these cookies soft or crunchy?
They’re soft and chewy in the center with lightly crisp edges.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe scales well for larger batches.

What kind of chocolate chips should I use?
Semisweet is standard, but any variety works based on your preference.

Can I freeze the baked cookies?
Yes, freeze in a single layer and thaw as needed.

Do I have to use parchment paper?
It helps prevent sticking and promotes even baking but isn’t strictly necessary.

Can I substitute margarine for butter?
Butter is preferred for flavor and texture, but margarine works in a pinch.

How do I get perfectly round cookies?
Gently shape the dough balls and use a round cookie cutter to swirl around them right after baking.

Conclusion

Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies are a timeless treat that never fails to impress. With their soft centers, crisp edges, and rich chocolate flavor, they strike the perfect balance of texture and taste. Whether for a celebration or a cozy night in, this go-to cookie recipe is sure to satisfy.

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