The Ultimate Best Easy Soft Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe

Few things in life are as universally loved as a warm, gooey chocolate chip cookie. Whether enjoyed with a glass of milk or as a standalone treat, this timeless dessert brings joy to people of all ages. Below, we share the ultimate chocolate chip cookie recipe, designed to produce cookies that are chewy on the inside, slightly crisp on the edges, and brimming with decadent chocolate.The Ultimate Best Easy Soft Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe

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Ingredients for the Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookie

To make cookies that stand out, using high-quality ingredients is essential. Here is what you will need:

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups (310g) of all-purpose flour: Ensures the perfect cookie structure.
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda: Provides the rise for chewy cookies.
• ½ teaspoon of salt: Enhances the overall flavor.

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup (226g) of unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture.
• 1 cup (200g) of granulated sugar: Contributes sweetness and a slight crispness.
• ¾ cup (150g) of packed brown sugar: Imparts a deeper, caramelized flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Helps bind the ingredients and adds tenderness.
• 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor profile.

Add-Ins:

• 2 cups (340g) of semi-sweet chocolate chips: The star of the show.
• Optional: 1 cup (100g) of chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans): For added crunch.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Chocolate Chip Cookie Perfection

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and seasoning.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes. This step creates air pockets, ensuring a tender texture.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Reduce the mixer speed to low and add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain the cookies’ tenderness.

Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate Chips

Using a spatula, gently fold in the chocolate chips (and nuts, if using). Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours. Chilling helps control the spread of the cookies during baking, resulting in a thicker texture.

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Baking the Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the dough into 1.5-inch balls. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets to allow room for spreading.

Step 3: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look soft. Avoid overbaking for the best chewy texture.

Step 4: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step allows them to set while retaining their softness.

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Tips for the Best Chocolate Chip Cookies

1. Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour.
2. Room Temperature Butter: Ensures proper creaming with the sugars.
3. Customize Chocolate Chips: Use a mix of milk, dark, and white chocolate for a unique twist.
4. Add a Sprinkle of Sea Salt: Garnish the cookies with a light dusting of flaky sea salt right after baking for a gourmet touch.

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Storage and Freezing

Storing Baked Cookies

Place cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them soft, add a slice of bread to the container.

Freezing Cookie Dough

Roll the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.

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Why This Recipe Stands Out

This recipe balances the perfect ratios of butter, sugar, and flour to create cookies that are irresistibly soft yet satisfyingly crisp. By incorporating tips like chilling the dough and using a variety of chocolate chips, you’ll elevate your baking to a professional level.

Advantages of the Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe

1. Perfect Texture: The recipe creates cookies that are chewy in the center and slightly crisp on the edges, offering the ideal combination for cookie lovers.
2. Rich Flavor: The use of both brown and granulated sugar enhances the sweetness and adds a deep, caramel-like flavor.
3. Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to include nuts, various types of chocolate, or even dried fruits.
4. Easy to Follow: With detailed, step-by-step instructions, even beginner bakers can achieve professional results.
5. Chilling the Dough: The recommended chilling process prevents excessive spreading, leading to thick, bakery-style cookies.
6. Storage-Friendly: Both the dough and baked cookies can be stored or frozen, allowing for convenience and batch preparation.
7. Crowd-Pleaser: The recipe is universally loved and perfect for sharing at events, family gatherings, or as gifts.

Disadvantages of the Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe

1. Time-Consuming: Chilling the dough requires additional preparation time, which might not suit those in a hurry.
2. High-Calorie Content: The recipe includes a substantial amount of butter, sugar, and chocolate, making it less suitable for those on strict dietary restrictions.
3. Ingredient Specificity: Using high-quality ingredients, such as pure vanilla extract and unsalted butter, can be more expensive than alternatives.
4. Sensitive to Measurements: Slight errors in measurements can impact the final texture and flavor, requiring precision in baking.
5. Not Allergy-Friendly: With common allergens like wheat, dairy, and eggs, the recipe is unsuitable for individuals with specific dietary restrictions unless adapted.
6. Equipment Required: Tools like a mixer, cookie scoop, and kitchen scale enhance results but might not be available to all bakers.

Would you like help in adapting this recipe to address any of these disadvantages?