What You’ll Need
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Step 1: Preparing the Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set the mixture aside.
Step 2: Creaming the Butter and Sugars
In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar until light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer or do it by hand using a sturdy wooden spoon.
Step 3: Adding the Wet Ingredients
Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined. Then, add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Ensure that the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combining the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients from step 1 into the wet ingredients from step 3. Mix just until the flour mixture is fully combined, being careful not to overmix. This will ensure tender cookies.
Step 5: Adding the Finishing Touches
Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough. For an extra kick, consider adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt.
Step 6: Chilling the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if time allows. Chilling the dough will prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking, resulting in a thicker and chewier texture.
Step 7: Baking the Cookies
When you’re ready to bake, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 9-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
Step 8: Enjoy!
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Now, it’s time to enjoy your freshly baked, homemade cookies! Serve with a glass of cold milk and savor every delicious bite.
With this step-by-step guide, you’re on your way to creating the perfect homemade cookie dough. Whether it’s for a special occasion, a late-night craving, or just because, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Happy baking!