The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies
A Classic, No-Fail Recipe for the Perfect Cookie
If you’re looking for the ultimate chocolate chip cookie recipe, this is it! These cookies are soft, chewy, and loaded with chocolate chips, making them perfect for any occasion. With simple pantry ingredients and no chilling time required, you can whip up a batch of fresh, warm cookies in no time.
Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe guarantees delicious, bakery-style cookies every single time. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – No chilling time, no complicated steps—just mix, bake, and enjoy.
- Perfectly Soft & Chewy – The ideal balance of crisp edges and a gooey center.
- No Fancy Ingredients – Uses everyday ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
- Customizable – Add your favorite mix-ins like nuts, white chocolate, or caramel for a twist.
Ingredients
This recipe makes about 24 cookies.
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (220g) packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons hot water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups (340g) semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup (120g) chopped walnuts (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a non-stick baking mat.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy. This step helps create the perfect texture.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Mix in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a small bowl, dissolve the baking soda in hot water. This helps activate the baking soda for a light and fluffy cookie.
- Add the baking soda mixture and salt to the wet ingredients, stirring to combine.
Step 4: Add the Flour and Mix-ins
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped walnuts (if using).
Step 5: Scoop and Bake
- Drop dough by large spoonfuls (or use a cookie scoop) onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still slightly soft.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy warm, or store for later!
Tips for the Best Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Use Room Temperature Butter – This helps the butter and sugar cream together properly for a smooth, fluffy texture.
- Don’t Overmix – Overmixing can make the cookies tough. Mix until just combined.
- Customize Your Cookies – Try using white chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, or even toffee bits for a fun variation.
- For Extra Chewy Cookies – Slightly underbake them and let them finish setting on the baking sheet.
- For a Bakery-Style Look – Press a few extra chocolate chips on top of each cookie before baking.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Room Temperature Storage
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freezing Baked Cookies
Let cookies cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a fresh-baked taste.
Freezing Cookie Dough
- Scoop dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
- When ready to bake, place frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Salted Butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt to 1/4 teaspoon to avoid overly salty cookies.
Can I Make These Cookies Without Nuts?
Absolutely! Just leave out the walnuts, or swap them for another mix-in like coconut or toffee bits.
Can I Use Dark Chocolate Instead of Semisweet?
Yes! Dark chocolate chips give a richer, less sweet flavor. You can also use milk chocolate for a sweeter option.
Why Do My Cookies Spread Too Much?
If your cookies spread too much, try chilling the dough for 15-30 minutes before baking or adding 1-2 extra tablespoons of flour.
Can I Double This Recipe?
Yes! This recipe doubles easily. Just be sure to mix well and use multiple baking sheets to prevent overcrowding.
Final Thoughts
This Best Chocolate Chip Cookies Ever recipe is perfect for all cookie lovers. Whether you love them soft and chewy or slightly crisp, this recipe delivers consistent, bakery-quality results every time.
So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the warm, chocolatey goodness of homemade cookies. Once you try them, they’ll become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!