These homemade chocolate chip cookies are perfectly golden around the edges, soft and chewy in the center, and loaded with delicious melted chocolate chips. With buttery flavor and a slightly crisp exterior, they’re the ultimate bakery-style treat!
Easy
Ingredients
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150 g) packed brown sugar
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2¾ cups (345 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups (255 g) semisweet chocolate chips
- ½ teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for extra softness)
- Flaky sea salt for topping (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and optional cornstarch.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the chocolate chips with a spatula, reserving a handful to press onto the cookies before baking.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the cookie dough and refrigerate for at least 30–60 minutes. This helps prevent excessive spreading and creates thicker, chewier cookies.
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Scoop approximately 2 tablespoons of dough per cookie and arrange the dough balls about 2 inches apart.
Press a few extra chocolate chips onto each dough ball.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers still look slightly soft.
Do not overbake. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Serve warm for the ultimate soft, gooey chocolate chip cookie experience.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Use brown sugar: It adds moisture and creates a wonderfully chewy texture.
- Don’t overmix: Mix the flour only until incorporated to keep the cookies tender.
- Chill the dough: This prevents excessive spreading and improves flavor.
- Slightly underbake: Remove the cookies when the centers still appear soft.
- Add extra chocolate chips: Press a few onto the dough before baking for that beautiful bakery-style appearance.
Storage Instructions
Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Refrigerator: Store baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Freeze portioned cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding approximately 2–3 minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition Information
Approximate values per cookie, based on 18 cookies:
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 41 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 17 g |
| Sugar | 24 g |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
The butter may be too warm, or the dough may not have chilled long enough. Refrigerate the dough before baking and use a cool baking sheet.
How do I make my cookies extra chewy?
Use more brown sugar than white sugar, avoid overbaking, and let the cookies finish setting on the baking sheet.
Can I use chocolate chunks instead of chips?
Absolutely! Chopped chocolate bars create delicious melted chocolate pockets throughout the cookies.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Refrigerate the dough for up to 72 hours before baking. Let it soften slightly if it’s too firm to scoop.
Conclusion
These soft and chewy chocolate chip cookies are a timeless homemade favorite. With golden edges, tender centers, rich buttery flavor, and plenty of chocolate chips, they’re perfect for family gatherings, bake sales, afternoon snacks, or whenever you’re craving something sweet.
The secret is simple: chill the dough, don’t overbake, and enjoy them warm!