Cookies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Delicious homemade cookies that are perfect for any occasion.
Cookies are a classic treat that brings joy to every home. Whether enjoyed with a glass of milk or shared with friends, these cookies are a delightful indulgence.
Why You Will Love These Cookies
- Soft and chewy texture that everyone loves
- Customizable with your favorite mix-ins
- Quick and easy recipe for last-minute cravings
The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion
Cookies are a classic dessert that never goes out of style. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, homemade cookies are a delightful choice. Their universal appeal makes them suitable for both casual and formal occasions. With this easy recipe, you can whip up a batch of cookies in no time, ensuring that you always have something delicious to share with family and friends.
What sets these cookies apart is their incredible versatility. You can easily adapt the basic recipe to suit your taste preferences. Want to add a bit of crunch? Toss in some nuts or oatmeal. Craving something fruity? Dried cranberries or raisins can elevate the flavor profile. The possibilities are endless, making these cookies a reliable go-to for any craving.
Baking Tips for Perfect Cookies
For the best results, make sure your butter is at the right temperature. Softened butter should be pliable but not melted, as this helps achieve that perfect soft and chewy texture. If you're in a hurry, you can cut the butter into small pieces and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
When it comes to mixing, be careful not to overmix the dough. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until there are no flour streaks visible. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, which we definitely want to avoid. Also, consider chilling your dough for 30 minutes before baking for even thicker cookies that hold their shape.
Storing and Freezing Your Cookies
Once your cookies are baked and cooled, you might wonder about the best way to store them. To keep your cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can typically last for about a week, but we doubt they’ll last that long! If you want to preserve their freshness for a longer period, consider freezing them.
To freeze your cookies, make sure they are completely cooled, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies anytime by simply thawing and reheating them in the oven for a few minutes.
Ingredients
Basic Cookie Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Gather all ingredients before starting the preparation.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend this into the butter mixture.
Add Chocolate Chips
Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Bake the Cookies
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Allow cookies to cool completely before storing.
Customizing Your Cookie Experience
One of the best things about baking cookies is the ability to personalize them to your liking. Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as dark, milk, or white chocolate, or try mixing in some peanut butter chips for a unique flavor twist. You can also incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to give your cookies a warm, cozy taste.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a swirl of caramel or a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking. These small additions can elevate your cookies from ordinary to extraordinary, impressing anyone lucky enough to indulge in them.
Serving Suggestions
While these cookies are delightful on their own, they can also be paired with a variety of accompaniments. Serve them with a tall glass of cold milk for a classic combination that brings back childhood memories. Alternatively, consider pairing them with a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
If you're hosting a gathering, arranging an assortment of cookies on a beautiful platter can make for an enticing centerpiece. Add some fresh fruit or a selection of nuts to complement the cookies, creating a delightful treat table that caters to different tastes.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine, but it may slightly alter the taste and texture.
→ How do I store leftover cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just thaw and bake when ready!
→ What can I substitute for eggs?
You can use flaxseed meal mixed with water or applesauce as an egg substitute.
Cookies
Delicious homemade cookies that are perfect for any occasion.
Created by: Rowan Tate
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
Basic Cookie Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend this into the butter mixture.
Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g