Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe – Soft, Chewy & Easy

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies filling your kitchen. This Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is perfect for anyone craving soft, chewy, and gooey cookies with a golden-brown crisp edge. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, these cookies are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Made with simple pantry staples, they come together quickly and can be customized with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or different types of chocolate.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making the perfect batch of homemade chocolate chip cookies, including essential baking tips to ensure the best results every time.

Nutrition & Instructions

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Time: 10 minutes
• Resting Time: 30 minutes (optional for better flavor)
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Dessert, Snack
• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories per Serving: ~200 kcal

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or stand mixer (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Cookie scoop (optional for uniform cookies)
• Wire cooling rack

Ingredients

• 2 ¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• ¾ cup (165g) brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups (340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ½ cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough cookies.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Nuts

Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped nuts (if using) using a spatula.

Step 7: Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended)

For the best flavor and texture, cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours). This helps the cookies develop a richer flavor and prevents excessive spreading while baking.

Step 8: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 9-11 minutes or until the edges are golden brown but the centers look slightly underbaked. The cookies will continue to set as they cool.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. Serve warm or store in an airtight container for later.

Tips for the Best Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Use Room Temperature Butter – Softened butter helps create a smooth, creamy dough for even baking.
• Chill the Dough – Chilling prevents spreading and enhances flavor.
• Don’t Overmix – Overmixing leads to dense cookies; mix until just combined.
• Try Different Chocolate – Experiment with dark, milk, or white chocolate chips for variety.
• Slightly Underbake – Cookies will continue to cook as they cool, ensuring a soft center.

Pairing Suggestions

These cookies are best enjoyed with:

• A cold glass of milk
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream
• A warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate

Conclusion

This Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe delivers the perfect balance of chewy, soft, and crisp textures, making it a go-to treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special event, holiday, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies are easy to make and always delicious. Try this recipe today, and enjoy the timeless joy of homemade chocolate chip cookies!