Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar until the mixture is creamy.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar blend. Beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts (if you’re using them).
- Using a small cookie scoop, drop the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until they are lightly golden around the edges.
Best ways to enjoy it
There’s no wrong way to savor chocolate chip cookies, but here are some creative ideas to elevate your experience. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent dessert. If you’re feeling extra fancy, drizzle melted caramel or chocolate sauce over your cookies. Pair them with a glass of cold milk or even a steaming cup of coffee for a perfect afternoon snack.
How to store & freeze
To keep your leftover cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze the dough before baking. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to three months. Whenever you crave cookies, simply bake them directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few extra nuggets of wisdom to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time:
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing—this helps create that light, fluffy texture.
- Avoid overmixing the dough; mix just until the dry ingredients are combined to keep the cookies tender.
- Let the cookies cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and keeps them from breaking.
Creative twists
If you’re looking to mix things up, consider experimenting with flavors. Try adding a teaspoon of espresso powder for a mocha version, or switch out semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks. You can also toss in dried fruits or oats for a different texture. The possibilities are endless!
Common questions
What’s the prep time for these cookies?
The total prep time is about 15 minutes, and baking time rounds up to another 10 minutes.
Can I use different types of sugar?
Absolutely! You can experiment with using different sugars like coconut sugar or even a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie option.
How can I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Ensure your butter is not too soft when mixing. Chilling the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before scooping can also help maintain their shape while baking.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can replace regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, and the cookies should still turn out great. Just make sure your chocolate chips are also gluten-free!
