Classic chocolate chip cookies featuring a buttery dough, semi-sweet chocolate morsels, and a perfect balance of sweetness and chewiness, ideal for any occasion.
Step 1: Get the Oven Ready
Start by cranking that oven up to 375°F (190°C). This gives you the perfect temperature for baking delicious cookies. It's a good idea to set it now, so it's piping hot when you're ready to bake. While it's heating up, gather all your ingredients and have them close by—this makes the whole process smoother and more enjoyable!
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars Together
In a large mixing bowl, use your trusty electric mixer to blend the softened butter, granulated sugar, and dark brown sugar until they're best friends—smooth and well combined. Add the vanilla extract to the mix for that unmistakable aroma that always reminds me of home.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
Crack in the eggs one at a time, blending them in thoroughly before adding the next. This step ensures your dough has a nice, smooth texture. It’s important not to rush this part—slow and steady wins the race to perfect cookie dough.
Step 4: Add Some Dry Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring in half of the flour, along with the baking soda and salt. Ditch the mixer and use your hands or a wooden spoon to combine these ingredients. Mixing by hand at this stage prevents overworking the dough, which is key for soft cookies.
Step 5: Mix in the Rest of the Flour and Chocolate Chips
Toss in the remaining flour and fold in those glorious Nestle Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (or any variety you prefer). This step doesn't just look delightful; it also ensures that every cookie is packed with chocolatey goodness. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.
Step 6: Chill the Dough
If you've got the time, let your dough rest in the fridge. Cover it up and chill for at least an hour—this part makes the dough easier to handle and enhances the flavor. Just don't forget about it; 24 hours is the max for chilling.
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
When you're ready to bake, scoop tablespoon-sized mounds of dough and place them on an ungreased baking sheet. Make sure to leave about 2 inches between each cookie. This allows them room to spread and ensures they bake evenly.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Pop the sheet into your preheated oven and let those beauties bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them and remove them when they start turning golden brown around the edges. Remember, they’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet even after removing from the oven, so don’t overdo it!
Step 9: Cool Down Momentarily
Allow the cookies to cool on their baking sheets for about two minutes. This step is crucial as it lets them firm up just enough to be easily transferred without breaking.
Step 10: Let Them Cool Completely
Using a spatula, gently move the cookies to wire racks to cool completely. This lets air circulate around them, preventing a soggy bottom. Once cooled, you’re free to dive in or store them for later.
Step 11: Store and Enjoy!
Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container. They'll stay wonderfully chewy for days, ready for whenever you need a little treat or a sweet pick-me-up. Enjoy every delightful bite!
Baking cookies can be a delightful experience, but even the best of us can misstep. A common error is overmixing the dough. Friend, just mix until the flour vanishes. Too much enthusiasm here leads to tough cookies.
Another hiccup is skipping the chilling step. Yes, patience is tough, but chilled dough ensures your cookies will be thick and chewy, not flat and sad.
Lastly, don't overcrowd your baking sheet. Cookies need space to spread their wings—or at least their dough. Just a little breathing room, and you're on your way to cookie perfection.