These easy chocolate chip cookies are everything you want in a homemade treat soft in the center, lightly crisp at the edges, buttery, and packed with melty chocolate. They come together in minutes with simple ingredients, making them perfect for beginners or anyone craving a quick, comforting bake.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
- Optional: a pinch of sea salt for sprinkling
Steps
- Cream the butter and sugars. Beat until light and fluffy this creates that perfect soft texture.
- Add the egg and vanilla. Mix just until smooth; no need to overbeat.
- Whisk dry ingredients. In another bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Bring the dough together. Add dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix gently.
- Fold in the chocolate chips. Don’t worry if the dough feels thick that’s exactly right for chewy cookies.
- Scoop and bake. Drop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 9–11 minutes, until the edges look barely golden.
- Cool briefly. Let them rest on the pan for a few minutes so they set without drying out.
Chef’s Tips
- Don’t overbake: Pull them out while the centers still look soft they finish setting as they cool.
- Chill the dough (optional): Even 20 minutes enhances the flavor and keeps them thicker.
- Add a sea salt sprinkle: A tiny pinch makes the chocolate flavor pop.
Variations
- Chunky bakery-style: Swap chocolate chips for large chocolate chunks.
- Nutty version: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Double chocolate: Replace 1/4 cup flour with cocoa powder.
Serving Suggestion
Serve warm with a cold glass of milk or crumble one over ice cream simple, comforting, and absolutely delicious.