Nothing beats the smell of Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies fresh out of the oven. These golden-brown, chewy delights are a timeless treat—perfectly soft in the center with crisp edges and packed with melty chocolate chips in every bite.
This from-scratch recipe is beginner-friendly and foolproof. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or a sweet midnight snack, these cookies deliver every time. No chilling required, just mix, bake, and enjoy warm cookie heaven.
Ingredients:
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 5: Mix in Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined—don’t overmix.
Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips
- Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using) until evenly distributed.
Step 7: Scoop and Bake
- Drop dough by rounded tablespoons (or use a cookie scoop) onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave 2 inches of space between each cookie.
- Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until edges are golden and centers look slightly soft.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm or store once cooled.
Variation:
- Extra chewy: Add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar.
- Crispy edges: Bake a minute longer or flatten slightly before baking.
- Dark chocolate: Swap some or all of the chips with dark chocolate chunks.
- Salted version: Sprinkle sea salt on top before baking.
- No nuts: Just leave them out for a smooth-textured cookie.
COOKING Note:
Using room-temperature butter is key for the perfect creamy texture when creaming with sugar. Chilling the dough is optional but helps cookies stay thick and chewy.
Serving Suggestions:
- With milk: Classic combo—serve warm cookies with a cold glass of milk.
- Ice cream sandwich: Place vanilla ice cream between two cookies.
- Gift idea: Stack in a mason jar and wrap with a ribbon for homemade gifts.
- Party tray: Include with brownies, bars, and snickerdoodles for a cookie platter.
Tips:
- Use a cookie scoop for even-sized cookies.
- Do not overbake—the centers will continue to firm as they cool.
- For thicker cookies, chill dough for 30–60 minutes.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze dough balls for up to 3 months—bake from frozen for fresh cookies anytime.
⏱️ Time Overview:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: ~25 minutes
🍽️ Nutritional Information (per cookie, approx. 24 cookies):
- Calories: ~210
- Protein: ~2g
- Carbohydrates: ~27g
- Fat: ~10g
- Sodium: ~100mg
- Sugar: ~17g
- Fiber: ~1g
Values vary slightly depending on chocolate and size of cookie.
❓FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
- Butter gives the best flavor and texture, but margarine can be used in a pinch.
Can I make these ahead of time?
- Yes! Refrigerate dough up to 3 days ahead or freeze dough balls for later baking.
Why are my cookies flat?
- Butter may have been too soft or the dough overmixed. Try chilling the dough before baking.
Can I make these gluten-free?
- Yes—use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour substitute. The texture may change slightly.
Can I double the recipe?
- Absolutely! This recipe doubles well for bigger batches or sharing.
Conclusion:
Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies are the ultimate comfort food. Warm, gooey, and filled with rich chocolate flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion—or no occasion at all. Whether you’re baking with kids, prepping for a party, or just indulging your sweet tooth, this easy recipe guarantees chewy, irresistible cookies every time.
Keep this classic in your recipe box—it never goes out of style