Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies strike the ideal balance between crispy edges and a soft, chewy center. Loaded with gooey chocolate chips and rich, buttery flavor, these cookies are a classic favorite for good reason. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or craving a comforting treat, this foolproof recipe delivers consistent, mouthwatering results every time.

ingredients

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

all-purpose flour
baking soda
salt
unsalted butter (softened)
brown sugar
granulated sugar
vanilla extract
eggs
semisweet chocolate chips

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.

Fold in the chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough.

Scoop tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are still soft.

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 9-11 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Use dark or milk chocolate chips depending on your preference.
Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra texture.
Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before baking for a gourmet touch.
Swap in mini chocolate chips for a more evenly distributed chocolate flavor.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
To freeze, place cooled cookies in a zip-top bag and store for up to 2 months.
Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth.

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is preferred for flavor, but margarine can be used if necessary.

Why are my cookies flat?
Too-warm butter or overmixing can cause spreading. Chill the dough if needed.

Can I chill the dough before baking?
Yes, chilling helps deepen the flavor and prevent spreading.

Can I use a stand mixer?
Yes, a stand mixer makes creaming the butter and sugar easier.

Do I need to use parchment paper?
It helps prevent sticking and promotes even baking, but you can also use a silicone baking mat.

What makes them chewy?
The brown sugar and slightly underbaking keep the centers soft and chewy.

Can I make smaller or larger cookies?
Yes, just adjust the baking time accordingly.

Are these cookies good for ice cream sandwiches?
Absolutely! Their chewy texture pairs perfectly with cold ice cream.

Do they stay soft?
Stored properly, these cookies stay soft for several days.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe scales well for larger batches.

Conclusion

Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies are everything a cookie should be—crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and packed with rich chocolate flavor. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a batch of irresistible cookies ready in no time. They’re sure to become a staple in your baking routine.