Who doesn’t love a warm, gooey chocolate chip cookie fresh out of the oven? This classic cookie recipe is a favorite for all ages and occasions, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with loved ones. What makes this recipe truly special is its use of cold butter for a denser texture, cornstarch for added softness, and a perfectly balanced mix of brown and granulated sugars for that delightful chewy bite. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this guide will walk you through creating the perfect batch of chocolate chip cookies every time.

Why This Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe Stands Out

This chocolate chip cookie recipe isn’t just another cookie recipe. The use of cornstarch is a game-changer, creating cookies that are incredibly soft on the inside while still holding their shape. We also use cold butter to avoid flat, overly spread cookies and a mix of sugars for a balanced sweetness. Plus, with the optional addition of walnuts, you can add a delightful crunch to every bite.

Ingredients Needed for Chocolate Chip Cookies

1¼ cups flour – Regular all-purpose flour works best for this recipe.
3 tablespoons cornstarch – Adds softness and keeps cookies tender.
½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor of all ingredients.
½ teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and creates a light texture.
½ cup cold butter – Cold butter is crucial for preventing cookie spread. Cut into smaller pieces.
6 tablespoons granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps the cookies brown.
6 tablespoons brown sugar – Contributes to chewiness and rich flavor.
1 egg – Binds ingredients together.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a depth of flavor.
1 bag (10-11 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips – The star of the show! Use less if you prefer fewer chocolate chips.
¼ cup walnut pieces (optional) – Adds a nice crunch and flavor.

Essential Kitchen Equipment

Mixing bowls (one large, one small)
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking sheets
Parchment paper
Spoon or cookie scoop
Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Preparation for Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies

Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). This high temperature helps the cookies set quickly, resulting in a chewy center and crisp edges.
Prepare Baking Sheets
Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking. This also makes cleanup a breeze!
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a smaller mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking soda. Mixing these ingredients separately ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Prepare the Butter and Sugar Mixture
Cut the cold butter into smaller pieces. In a larger mixing bowl, combine the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until creamy. You can use a wooden spoon or an electric mixer on a low setting.
Add Egg and Vanilla
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until smooth. This step ensures that all wet ingredients are fully incorporated.
Mix the Dry Ingredients with the Wet Mixture
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently to combine. Be careful not to overmix, which can lead to tougher cookies.
Fold in Chocolate Chips and Walnuts
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and, if desired, the walnut pieces. Ensure that they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Form the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, scoop out the dough and place it on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie to allow for spreading.
Bake to Perfection
Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 6-7 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overbaking.
Cool and Enjoy
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. Transfer them to a cooling rack to finish cooling. Enjoy them warm for the softest texture!

Tips for Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Use Cold Butter: Cold butter prevents the cookies from spreading too much, keeping them thick and chewy.
Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can cause the cookies to become tough. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking. They should be removed from the oven when the edges are set, but the centers may still look a little soft. They will continue to cook as they cool.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using Melted Butter: This can cause the cookies to spread too thin. Always use cold butter.
Overbaking the Cookies: Even a minute too long can make the cookies dry. Remove them when they are just starting to turn golden brown.
Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Too much flour can make the cookies dense. Always use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour.

How to Store Your Chocolate Chip Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies in a zip-top bag for up to three months. To enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve your chocolate chip cookies warm, paired with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. For an added touch, arrange them on a decorative plate or stack them in a jar for a lovely display. You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a gourmet finish!

Variations and Substitutions

Add Different Nuts: Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different flavor profile.
Experiment with Chocolate Chips: Use white chocolate chips, dark chocolate chunks, or a mix of both.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour substitute to make the recipe gluten-free.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, but keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly. Butter provides a richer flavor and a better consistency.

How can I make my cookies less sweet?
Reduce the amount of granulated sugar by a tablespoon or two. You can also use dark chocolate chips for a less sweet alternative.

Why did my cookies turn out flat?
Flat cookies could result from using melted butter or not enough flour. Ensure your butter is cold and your flour measurements are accurate.

Conclusion

These chocolate chip cookies are a delightful treat that brings comfort and joy with every bite. Perfectly chewy, soft, and packed with chocolate chips, they’re sure to become your go-to cookie recipe. If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and baking tips! cookies are a delicious twist on a classic favorite. With the perfect balance of soft, chewy centers and a rich chocolate flavor, they are bound to be a hit at any gathering. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll find yourself coming back for more. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delightful recipes and baking tips!

Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe