Chocolate Chip Cookies

What is the most popular chocolate chip cookie? These are it! They are the perfectly chewy, chocolatey, ooey-gooey answer to those intense sweet tooth cravings. Whether for a party, family gathering, or just a cozy night in, these Chocolate Chip Cookies will delight everyone. Their rich flavor and delightful texture make them stand out from the rest.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Treat: Customize with your favorite nuts or use dark chocolate chips for a different twist!
• Perfectly Chewy: The combination of cornstarch and butter creates a soft, chewy texture that melts in your mouth.
• Ideal for Sharing: With 18 cookies per batch, they are great for sharing with friends and family.
• Quick Baking Time: Bake in just 6-7 minutes for a warm treat that satisfies your sweet tooth fast!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking these delicious cookies, gather the essential tools and equipment needed to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Whisk
• Spoon or cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients separately for better texture.
• Baking sheets: Ensure even baking and easy transfer of cookies to the oven.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, allowing cookies to bake evenly without mess.

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Ingredients

To make these delightful Chocolate Chip Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

Dry Ingredients

• 1¼ cups flour
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking soda

Wet Ingredients

• ½ cup cold butter (1 stick)
• 6 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 egg
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Add-Ins

• 1 bag semi-sweet chocolate chips (10-11 oz)
• ¼ cup walnut pieces (optional)

How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). This high temperature helps achieve that perfect golden-brown exterior.

Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheets

Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and ensures easy cleanup.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a smaller mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Flour
2. Cornstarch
3. Salt
4. Baking soda

This mixture ensures even distribution of leavening agents.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Cut the stick of butter into smaller pieces and place them in a larger mixing bowl. Then add:
1. Granulated sugar
2. Brown sugar
3. Egg
4. Vanilla extract

Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gently stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps cookies tender.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips and Walnuts

Fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips and optional walnuts gently until everything is mixed evenly.

Step 7: Shape Cookie Dough

Using a tablespoon, scoop out cookie dough balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet with enough space between each ball to allow spreading.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 6-7 minutes or until the tops start turning golden brown. Watch closely to avoid overbaking!

Step 9: Cool Down

Remove cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. They will continue cooking slightly while cooling.

Step 10: Enjoy Warm

For the softest experience, enjoy your cookies while they are still warm!

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cookies

Serving chocolate chip cookies can elevate any gathering or snack time. These cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways to satisfy your sweet cravings.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pairing chocolate chip cookies with a cold glass of milk is classic. The creamy texture complements the chewy cookie perfectly.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Create delicious ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies. This makes for a delightful dessert treat.

Topped with Nut Butter

• Spread almond or peanut butter on top of a warm chocolate chip cookie for an added layer of flavor and nutrition.

Warm and Gooey

• Serve the cookies warm from the oven. The melty chocolate chips will make each bite irresistible.

Cookie Platter

• Arrange various cookies on a platter, including your chocolate chip ones, for a colorful dessert display at parties or gatherings.

How to Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies

To achieve the ultimate chocolate chip cookies, follow these simple tips for an unbeatable texture and flavor.

• Use Cold Ingredients: Start with cold butter and eggs for extra chewy cookies that maintain their shape while baking.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps develop flavors and prevents spreading.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients. This keeps the cookies tender and light.

• Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. Removing them from the oven when they are slightly underdone ensures they remain soft.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chocolate chip cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their sweetness. Here are some great options to consider serving alongside:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of chocolate chip cookies.

2. Milkshakes
   Creamy milkshakes complement the cookies’ sweetness while making for an indulgent treat.

3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt, granola, and fruit, then serve it alongside your cookies for a balanced snack.

4. Cheese Plate
   A selection of mild cheeses can create an interesting savory contrast to sweet chocolate chip cookies.

5. Coffee or Tea
   Brewed coffee or tea serves as a perfect beverage to balance out the sweetness of your cookies.

6. Nut Mix
   A bowl of mixed nuts offers crunch and protein, balancing out the sweetness while providing texture variety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chocolate chip cookies can be easy, but certain mistakes can ruin your batch. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using warm butter: Warm butter can lead to greasy cookies. Always use cold butter to achieve the perfect texture.
• Skipping the cornstarch: Cornstarch helps create a chewy cookie. Don’t skip it; it’s key for that delightful bite!
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can make your cookies tough. Mix just until combined for a soft and chewy result.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can dry out your cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
• Baking at too high of a temperature: Baking at high temperatures can burn the edges while leaving the center raw. Stick to 475° for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Freeze unbaked dough balls on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Baked cookies can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F for about 5-8 minutes until warm and gooey.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a nonstick pan on low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Chocolate Chip Cookies so special?

These Chocolate Chip Cookies are known for their perfect balance of chewiness and flavor, making them irresistible!

Can I customize my Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even swap in different types of chocolate chips based on your preference.

How do I store leftover Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much?

If your cookies spread excessively, try chilling the dough before baking or adding more flour next time.

How long do homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies last?

Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies will last up to 5 days at room temperature and around 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Chip Cookies offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone loves. They are not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing you to customize them with your favorite mix-ins. Give this recipe a try and enjoy warm, gooey goodness straight from your oven!