Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small bowl, dissolve the baking soda in hot water and set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually blend in the flour and salt, then add the baking soda mixture.
- Fold in the chocolate chips gently until evenly distributed.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are nicely browned.
Best ways to enjoy it
These cookies are delicious on their own, but why not amp up the experience? Serve them warm with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. You can also pair them with a cup of coffee or tea to elevate your afternoon snack. For a fun presentation, stack a few cookies in a mason jar tied with a ribbon for a lovely gift!
How to store
To keep your chocolate chip cookies fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’d like to store them longer, simply freeze them! Just make sure they’re completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to indulge, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the microwave for that fresh-baked taste.
Helpful cooking tips
- Measure flour carefully: Avoid packing the flour into your measuring cup; instead, spoon it in and level it off with a knife for accurate measurements. This will help prevent dry cookies.
- Chill the dough: For thicker cookies, you can chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- Experiment with flavors: Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or substituting half of the chocolate chips with peanut butter chips for a tasty twist.
Recipe variations
Don’t hesitate to get creative with this base recipe. You can incorporate oats for a chewy texture, use different types of chocolate such as dark or milk chocolate, or even mix in dried fruit or coconut for added flavor. To cater to dietary restrictions, try substituting gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version, or use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips for a vegan-friendly option.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to make these cookies?
From start to finish, you can expect to spend about 30 to 40 minutes, including prep and bake time.
Can I substitute the butter with oil?
While you can substitute butter with oil, using butter will yield the best flavor and texture. If you need a dairy-free option, use a plant-based butter instead.
How can I store leftover cookie dough?
If you have leftover dough, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, just pop the dough onto a baking sheet and bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
