Soft & Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

When it comes to classic desserts, few treats can rival the appeal of a freshly baked cookie. The warm aroma, the gooey chocolate chips melting in your mouth, and the delightful chewiness make Soft & Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies a timeless favorite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just indulging yourself, this recipe will have you whipping up a batch in no time. With a perfect blend of ingredients that create a cookie that is crispy on the outside and irresistibly chewy on the inside, you’ll understand why this recipe is a must-try.

Why Cooks Rave About It

Soft & Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies are not just a dessert; they are an experience. Bakers love this recipe for its simplicity and the incredible results it yields. The combination of brown sugar and granulated sugar creates a depth of flavor that elevates these cookies above your average treat. Adding cornstarch contributes to that soft, pillowy texture everyone craves. Plus, using miniature chocolate chips ensures that every bite is packed with chocolatey goodness. The balance of flavors and textures makes these cookies a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re sharing them with friends or savoring them all on your own.

Ingredient List

• 2 cups (281.25g) all-purpose flour
• 1.5 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup (170.25g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 3/4 cup (165g) packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1 egg, at room temperature
• 1 egg yolk, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240g) miniature semisweet chocolate chips

Appliances & Accessories

• Mixing bowls – for combining the dry and wet ingredients.
• Whisk or electric mixer – to ensure a smooth batter.
• Baking sheets – ideally lined with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Cookie scoop – for even-sized cookies.
• Cooling rack – to allow cookies to cool properly after baking.

Soft & Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial as it evenly distributes the leavening agents throughout the flour, contributing to the cookies’ texture.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The sugars should be well-integrated with the butter.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture. Continue to whisk until everything is well combined. The addition of an extra yolk helps to create that chewy texture.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the miniature semisweet chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto lined baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie as they will spread while baking. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look slightly underbaked.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This allows them to set and maintain their chewy texture.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

• For a dairy-free option, substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter alternative.
• Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
• Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version.
• Swap out the miniature chocolate chips for dark chocolate chunks or white chocolate chips if you prefer.

Slip-Ups to Skip

• Don’t skip the cornstarch! It’s essential for achieving that soft and chewy texture.
• Avoid overmixing the dough; this can lead to tough cookies.
• Make sure your butter is slightly cooled before mixing with sugars to prevent the eggs from cooking.
• Leave enough space between the cookies on the baking sheet to allow for spreading during baking.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

If you want to bake cookies but don’t have the time, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. Roll the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the cookie dough balls to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough onto a baking sheet and add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes! While the combination of light brown sugar and granulated sugar gives the best flavor and texture, you can experiment with other types such as dark brown sugar or coconut sugar.

What should I do if my cookies are too flat?

If your cookies turn out too flat, it may be due to melted butter or not enough flour. Make sure to measure your flour correctly and allow the butter to cool before mixing.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Store your Soft & Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months.

Can I add nuts to the cookie dough?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can be added to the dough for an extra crunch and flavor. Just be sure to adjust the amount of chocolate chips to maintain balance.

Final Bite

Baking Soft & Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies is not just about the end product; it’s about the joy of creating something delicious from scratch. With just a few basic ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch that will impress friends and family alike. Whether enjoyed straight from the oven or paired with a tall glass of milk, these cookies are sure to delight. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let the baking magic begin! There’s nothing quite like the feeling of pulling a tray of warm cookies from the oven, ready to indulge in a timeless treat that never goes out of style.

The next time you’re craving a sweet snack, remember this recipe for Soft & Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies. It’s a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth while creating lasting memories in the kitchen. Happy baking!