Cookies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Deliciously soft and chewy cookies that are perfect for any occasion.
These cookies are a family favorite, enjoyed at gatherings and celebrations. Their delightful texture and flavor will make them a hit with everyone!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich buttery taste that melts in your mouth
- Versatile base for adding your favorite mix-ins
- Perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cup of coffee
The Perfect Balance of Texture
One of the most delightful aspects of these cookies is their incredible texture. They strike a perfect balance between being soft and chewy, creating an irresistible eating experience. When you bite into these cookies, you’ll notice a slight crispness on the edges that gives way to a tender, melt-in-your-mouth center. This combination makes them not only satisfying to eat but also perfect for baking enthusiasts who appreciate the nuances of cookie perfection.
To achieve this ideal texture, it’s crucial to use softened butter during the creaming process. This allows for the perfect incorporation of air, which contributes to the cookie’s lift and softness. Additionally, be careful not to overmix once you add the dry ingredients, as this can lead to tougher cookies. With a little attention to detail, you’ll have cookies that are the envy of your friends and family.
Customizable for Every Taste
Another reason to love this cookie recipe is its versatility. The basic dough serves as a fantastic canvas for a variety of mix-ins, allowing you to tailor the cookies to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer classic chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruits, or a combination of all three, you can easily adjust the ingredients to create your perfect cookie.
For a fun twist, try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a splash of espresso powder for a mocha flavor. The possibilities are endless! This adaptability not only makes these cookies a staple in your baking repertoire but also ensures that there's a version to please every palate at gatherings, parties, or cozy nights in.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These cookies are not just a treat; they’re a versatile dessert suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, these cookies can elevate the moment. Their inviting aroma while baking can bring everyone together, creating a warm and festive atmosphere.
Additionally, they make for excellent gifts. Packaged in a decorative tin or a simple cellophane bag tied with a ribbon, they are a thoughtful present for friends, family, or neighbors. You can even customize the flavor to match the recipient’s preferences, making your gift even more special. With these cookies, every occasion can be a little sweeter.
Ingredients
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
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Mix and match ingredients to create your perfect cookie!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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 Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend this into the creamed mixture.
Add Chocolate Chips
Fold in the chocolate chips if using.
Scoop and Bake
Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your freshly baked cookies!
Tips for Baking Success
To ensure the best results when baking your cookies, it’s important to measure your ingredients accurately. Using the spoon and level method for flour, where you spoon flour into a measuring cup and level it off with a knife, will help prevent dense cookies. Additionally, using room-temperature eggs allows for better emulsification, leading to a smoother batter.
Another tip is to let your cookie dough chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps to solidify the fat, which can result in thicker, chewier cookies. If you're short on time, even a quick 10-minute chill can make a difference.
Storing Your Cookies
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 if you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
When you're ready to enjoy frozen cookies, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain that fresh-baked warmth. This way, you can enjoy your cookies as if they were just made, any time you desire!
Baking with Kids
Baking these cookies is a fantastic activity to do with kids! They can help with measuring and mixing the ingredients, making it a fun learning experience. Not only does this teach them valuable kitchen skills, but it also allows for quality bonding time over a delicious treat.
Encourage creativity by letting them choose their favorite mix-ins or even decorating the cookies once they cool. This interactive approach makes baking a memorable experience, and the end result is a batch of cookies that everyone can enjoy together. Plus, it's a great way to introduce children to the joy of baking!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used, but it may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
→ How should 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 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before baking.
→ What can I add to the cookies?
You can add nuts, oats, or dried fruits for different flavors and textures.
Cookies
Deliciously soft and chewy cookies that are perfect for any occasion.
Created by: Lillian Hayes
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
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
- 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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 a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend this into the creamed mixture.
Fold in the chocolate chips if using.
Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 19g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g