Name: Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 149 min
Ingredients: 2.25 cups all-purpose flour ((spooned & leveled)); 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1.5 teaspoons cornstarch (*); 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.75 cups unsalted butter ((melted & cooled for 5 minutes)); 0.75 cups brown sugar ((packed light or dark)); 0.5 cups granulated sugar; 1 large egg (at room temperature); 1 large egg yolk (at room temperature); 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1.25 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chocolate chunks)

Introduction to Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

When it comes to cookies, few treats are as universally adored as chewy chocolate chip cookies. Their delightful texture, characterized by a crispy edge and a soft, gooey center, makes them irresistible to cookie lovers everywhere. Each bite bursts with rich chocolate flavor, a perfect combination for your sweet cravings after a long day.

Why Are Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies So Loved?

The magic of these cookies lies not only in the ingredients but also in their baking method. When made correctly, the use of melted butter, a blend of sugars, and a bit of cornstarch creates that fabulous chewy texture. A well-chilled dough, as recommended in many recipes, helps control spread, ensuring you get that thick cookie that's perfect for dunking in milk.

Adding more joy to this beloved dessert is the versatility it offers. You can personalize your chewy chocolate chip cookies by incorporating various add-ins such as nuts, dried fruits, or even unique chocolates. This flexibility makes them ideal for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. For more tips on creating the perfect cookie, check out this comprehensive guide on baking cookies.

Ready to whip up a batch of these delightful cookies? Let’s get started!

Ingredients for Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Chewy Cookie

Creating the perfect chewy chocolate chip cookies starts with the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch that’s sure to impress:

All-Purpose Flour: 2 and ¼ cups creates the perfect structure.
Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon helps with leavening, giving your cookies a little lift.
Cornstarch: 1 and ½ teaspoons add softness—don’t skip this!
Salt: Just a ½ teaspoon enhances the flavor.
Unsalted Butter: ¾ cup, melted and slightly cooled, is crucial for that rich taste.
Brown Sugar and Granulated Sugar: A mix of ¾ cup packed brown sugar and ½ cup granulated sugar provides the ideal sweetness and chewiness.
Eggs: One large egg plus an extra egg yolk for moisture and richness.
Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract add a delightful aromatic touch.
Chocolate Chips: Finally, 1 and ¼ cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks for the ultimate indulgence.

With these staple ingredients, you’re all set to create cookies that are irresistibly chewy and delicious! For more tips on baking basics, check out Sally's Baking Addiction to elevate your cookie game.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Making chewy chocolate chip cookies is not just about following a recipe; it’s an experience filled with delightful aromas and the promise of the ultimate treat. Let’s dive into the preparation steps that will transform simple ingredients into a delicious batch of cookies!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before we start, it’s essential to have everything you need at your fingertips. Here’s a quick checklist of ingredients for your chewy chocolate chip cookies:

2 and ¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 and ½ teaspoons cornstarch (optional, but recommended for chewiness)
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter, melted & cooled
¾ cup packed light or dark brown sugar
½ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg + 1 egg yolk (room temperature)
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 and ¼ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks

Gathering your ingredients beforehand ensures a smooth baking process. Plus, it’s always a great way to create a fun atmosphere in your kitchen!

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt. This combination is crucial as it will give your cookies structure. Did you know that using a little cornstarch in your cookies can yield an extra soft texture? Give your dry ingredients a good mix and set them aside while you tackle the wet ingredients.

Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until no lumps remain. Take your time here; it’s the smoothness of this mixture that will contribute to the cookies’ chewiness! Next, whisk in the egg and egg yolk one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. You'll notice that the mixture is thin, but that’s perfectly normal.

Create the Cookie Dough

Now, it’s time to bring it all together. Pour the wet mixture into your bowl of dry ingredients and stir with a large spoon or spatula until a soft and shiny dough forms. This is also when you’ll fold in those luscious chocolate chips. It’s okay if they don’t stick perfectly at first—just give it your best shot!

Chill the Dough

This step is critical for preventing those cookies from spreading too much during baking. Cover the dough tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 3 days. If you can, let it chill overnight; your future self will thank you for the added flavor and texture!

Shape and Bake the Cookies

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. If your dough has been in the fridge for a while, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Scoop out the dough, rolling it into balls and shaping them taller rather than wide, almost like a little cylinder. Arrange these on your prepared sheets, giving them plenty of space. Bake for about 13-14 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned, letting the centers remain soft.

Final Touches

After baking, allow your chewy chocolate chip cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. If you’re feeling indulgent, you can press a few extra chocolate chips into the tops before they finish cooling. Enjoy your freshly baked cookies—there’s nothing quite like them!

Baking can be a wonderful blend of science and artistry, and these chewy chocolate chip cookies are a great way to start. Adding your personal touches, be they nuts or other mix-ins, can make them even more special. Happy baking!

Variations of Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Nutty Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

For those who love a bit of crunch, consider adding chopped nuts to your chewy chocolate chip cookies. Walnuts or pecans integrate beautifully and lend a rich texture alongside the gooey chocolate. A sprinkle of sea salt on top after baking elevates the flavors, too. Not only do they bring a nutty flavor, but they also add healthy fats, making this version a tad more nutritious. You can check out more ways to enhance your cookie game with different nut varieties here.

Festive Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Want to make your chewy chocolate chip cookies extra special for a holiday gathering? Get festive by incorporating holiday-themed add-ins. Think red and green M&Ms or seasonal spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a cozy flavor twist. You can even drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies for a beautiful finish. This makes them perfect for celebrations, and who wouldn’t love a batch of these delightful treats? Explore other creative cookie variations here.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Key Tips for the Best Cookies

To create the ultimate chewy chocolate chip cookies, follow these expert tips for perfect results every time:

Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 2 hours (or overnight) helps to prevent overspreading, ensuring a thicker cookie.
Shape the Dough Properly: When scooping out the dough, form taller balls instead of wider ones. This trick encourages a chewier texture.
Experiment with Ingredients: Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or even a mix of different chocolate chips. Customize to your heart's content!
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Room temperature eggs and butter help achieve a better texture and flavor in your cookies.

For more detailed tips, check out our baking success strategies!

Serving Suggestions for Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Cookies

Your chewy chocolate chip cookies are delicious straight from the oven, but why stop there? There are countless creative ways to elevate your cookie experience:

Ice Cream Sandwiches: Place a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies for a delightful treat. Vanilla or salted caramel ice cream pairs wonderfully!
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the top of your cookies for an added touch of elegance.
S’mores Cookies: Layer a mini marshmallow and a piece of chocolate on top of a warm cookie for a gooey s’mores experience.
Dunking: Enjoy your cookies with a cold glass of milk, or a warm cup of coffee. The flavors are simply unbeatable!

Get creative and enjoy your cookies in new ways!

Time Breakdown for Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

When you're in the mood for chewy chocolate chip cookies, understanding the timing can help you plan better. Let's break it down:

Preparation Time

Get started by gathering your ingredients and mixing everything together for about 20 minutes. This includes measuring, mixing, and preparing to chill the dough.

Chilling Time

To achieve that perfect chewy texture, let your cookie dough chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. For best results, consider chilling overnight!

Baking Time

When you’re ready to bake, expect to spend around 13-14 minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on those edges—they should be just lightly browned.

Total Time

From start to finish, including preparation, chilling, and baking, your total time commitment is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, though the bulk of this is just the dough chilling.

Feeling excited to bake? Make sure to check out the full instructions for a perfect batch of these delightful treats! You can find more tips on cookie-making at Sally's Baking Addiction.

Nutritional Facts for Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Calories

Each chewy chocolate chip cookie contains about 200 calories, making them a delightful treat without overwhelming your daily caloric intake.

Fat Content

These cookies have a fat content of roughly 10 grams per cookie. This includes healthy fats from butter, contributing to their rich and indulgent flavor.

Sugar Content

With about 12 grams of sugar per cookie, chewy chocolate chip cookies offer a sweet kick that's sure to satisfy your cravings. Moderation is key, though; enjoy them as a part of a balanced diet!

For more details on healthy baking practices, you might find this article from the American Heart Association useful. The delightful balance of flavors in these cookies is worth a spot in your dessert rotation!

FAQs about Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

How can I make my cookies chewier?
To achieve that perfect chewy texture, consider using more brown sugar than granulated sugar, as brown sugar retains moisture. Additionally, incorporating cornstarch (as noted in the recipe) helps create a softer bite. Another trick is to slightly underbake your cookies, allowing them to set while cooling. The centers should appear soft but not gooey!

What if I don’t have cornstarch?
If you find yourself without cornstarch, don’t fret! You can simply omit it. Your chewy chocolate chip cookies will still be delicious and soft. Alternatively, you could use an equal amount of all-purpose flour as a substitute, though the texture might vary slightly.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Freezing cookie dough is a fantastic option for enjoying fresh cookies anytime. Simply scoop out your dough balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid before transferring them to a zip-top bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. For best quality, bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute to the baking time. For more tips, check out this freezing dough guide.

These tips should help you make the chewy chocolate chip cookies of your dreams!

Conclusion on Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Baking these chewy chocolate chip cookies is more than just a culinary task; it’s about creating moments and memories. With a perfect blend of textures and flavors, they’re sure to impress friends and family alike. So, preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and indulge in this delightful treat! For more baking inspiration, check out this guide on perfecting cookie texture.