The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies

Why Make This Recipe

Chocolate chip cookies are a classic treat loved by many people around the world. They are simple, fun to make, and delicious. With their soft, gooey centers and crispy edges, they bring a sense of joy that is hard to beat. Whether you are making them for a party, a family gathering, or just for yourself, these cookies are sure to please everyone.

This recipe stands out because it features brown butter, which adds a rich, nutty flavor to the cookies. Brown butter is made by cooking regular butter until it turns golden brown and develops a deeper flavor. This simple change makes a huge difference in taste. Plus, these cookies are easy to make and require ingredients you might already have in your kitchen.

Making these cookies is not just about eating something sweet; it’s about the experience of baking. The smell of cookies baking in the oven is warm and inviting. You can share these cookies with friends and family, or enjoy them yourself with a glass of milk or your favorite hot drink. So let’s get into how you can make these delightful chocolate chip cookies!

How to Make The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies

Making these chocolate chip cookies is straightforward. With some simple steps, you will have a batch of warm, delicious cookies ready to enjoy. Here’s everything you need to know to make these amazing cookies.

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter*
• 1 cup (200 g) packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg + 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cup (220 g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt + more flaky sea salt for sprinkling
• 1 1/2 cups (255 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips or roughly chopped chocolate

Directions:

1. Brown the Butter: Start by placing the unsalted butter in a small saucepan and put it over medium-low heat. This is important for achieving an even, golden brown color. Use a silicone spatula to stir the butter. Make sure to scrape the bottom and sides of the pan every 10 to 15 seconds. At first, the butter will melt and foam. As you continue, the bubbles will get smaller, and the butter will start to smell nutty. After about 5 to 7 minutes, it will turn a golden brown color, and you will see small brown bits. These bits are the milk solids that have toasted. Once this happens, remove the butter from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use the silicone spatula to mix them well. This mixture will look smooth and shiny. Next, add the egg, extra egg yolk, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until it is well combined.

3. Add the Dry Ingredients: Now, it’s time to add the dry ingredients. In the same bowl, add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and kosher salt. Fold the ingredients together gently until no streaks of flour can be seen. It is essential not to overmix the dough. The final dough should feel soft but not sticky. When you touch it with a finger, it should give slightly.

4. Add the Chocolate: Fold in the chocolate chips until they are evenly mixed into the dough. Remember, be careful not to overmix.

5. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with the dough and place it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 1 hour, but it can be left overnight if you wish. Chilling helps to develop the flavors and makes the cookies chewier.

6. Preheat the Oven: When you are ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (about 180°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easy.

7. Scoop the Cookies: Take the dough out of the fridge. If it feels too hard, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes until it is softer and scoopable. Using a 1 ½ ounce cookie scoop, portion out equal amounts of dough. Place the dough on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow space for spreading during baking.

8. Bake the Cookies: Put the baking sheets in the oven and bake the cookies for 12 to 13 minutes. They should puff up and be light golden brown around the edges while still being soft in the center.

9. Cool and Serve: After baking, remove the sheets from the oven. If you like, sprinkle some flaky sea salt on top of the cookies while they are warm. Allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving.

How to Serve The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies are perfect for any occasion. You can serve them warm right from the oven for a fresh treat. Pair them with a cold glass of milk, or enjoy them with hot chocolate or coffee for a delightful snack.

For gatherings or parties, you can arrange the cookies on a large plate or tray. Adding some fresh fruit like strawberries or slices of banana can make a beautiful display. If you’re sharing with friends or family, it’s a great idea to make a big batch so that everyone can enjoy them.

How to Store The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies

To keep your chocolate chip cookies fresh, it is best to store them in an airtight container. If you have leftovers, let the cookies cool completely before placing them in the container. This helps to keep them soft and chewy.

You can store these cookies at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place individual cookies in a freezer bag and freeze. They can be pulled out and enjoyed later, warmed up for a perfect treat!

Tips to Make The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the eggs are at room temperature before you begin. This helps the dough mix better and creates a smoother batter.

2. Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until you no longer see flour. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.

3. Experiment with Chocolate: While semi-sweet chocolate chips are traditional, feel free to try dark chocolate or milk chocolate. Mixing different types can also be fun and delicious!

4. Adjust Baking Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. If they look too pale or too dark, adjust the time accordingly.

5. Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, use high-quality butter and vanilla extract. It really makes a difference in the overall taste!

Variations

While this recipe is classic and delicious, there are ways to switch it up:

• Nutty Addition: Fold in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
• Oatmeal Cookies: Add some oats to give your cookies a chewy texture. Mix in about 1 cup of oats along with the flour.
• Different Flavors: Try adding things like shredded coconut, or swap some of the semi-sweet chocolate for white chocolate chips for a different taste experience.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the dough ahead of time. Chill it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just let it soften for a few minutes at room temperature before scooping and baking.

Why does browning butter matter?

Browning butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the taste of the cookies. It gives them a depth of flavor that regular melted butter doesn’t provide.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies are done when they are puffed up, slightly golden around the edges, and soft in the center. They will continue to cook slightly after you take them out of the oven, so don’t worry if they seem a bit underbaked.

With this guide, you’re all set to bake The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies. Enjoy the baking process and the delicious results!