Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Indulge your sweet tooth with these soft and chewy chocolate chip cookies. A timeless favorite, these cookies are the perfect blend of sweetness and chocolatey goodness. They're great for any occasion - be it a simple tea time snack or a dessert after dinner. The recipe is simple and straightforward, making it perfect for those with novice baking skills.

Photos of Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

The ingredients for this recipe are quite common and you might already have them in your pantry. However, cornstarch might be an ingredient not typically found in all homes. It is used in this recipe to give the cookies a soft texture. You can find it in the baking aisle of your local supermarket. The recipe also calls for semisweet chocolate chips, which can be found in the baking section as well.

Ingredients for Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Unsalted butter: This will give the cookies a rich and creamy flavor.

Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture to the cookies.

Sugar: It gives the cookies their sweetness.

Egg: Acts as a binder and helps the cookies rise.

Vanilla extract: Adds a hint of vanilla flavor.

All-purpose flour: The base of the cookies.

Cornstarch: Gives the cookies a soft texture.

Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and spread.

Salt: Enhances the sweet flavors.

Semisweet chocolate chips: Gives the cookies their chocolatey goodness.

One reader, Glynnis Holcombe says:

These soft and chewy chocolate chip cookies are a game-changer! The perfect balance of sweetness and chewiness. They're a hit with my family and friends. The recipe is easy to follow, and the cookies turn out amazing every time. I highly recommend trying it out!

Glynnis Holcombe

Techniques Required for Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

How to prepare the cookie dough: Combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and sugar in a large bowl. Stir well until combined. Add the egg and egg yolk, then stir well. Stir in the vanilla extract. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, then stir well until there are no flour streaks. Stir in the chocolate chips.

How to chill the dough: Place the dough in the refrigerator and chill for 30 minutes.

How to preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

How to prepare the cookie sheets: Line the cookie sheets with parchment paper.

How to scoop the dough: Scoop the dough by rounded 1½ tablespoons onto the prepared cookie sheets, placing at least 2 inches apart.

How to bake the cookies: Bake for 11 minutes.

How to add additional chocolate chips: Gently press additional chocolate chips into the tops of the warm cookies.

How to cool the cookies: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the cookie sheets.

How To Make Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

These chocolate chip cookies are guaranteed to be the best cookie recipe you’ll whip up! It’s perfectly flavorful and can be whipped up in under an hour.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 11 minutes

Chill Time: 30 minutes

Total: 56 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupunsalted butter,melted, cooled for at least 10 minutes
1¼cupbrown sugar,tightly packed
½cupsugar
1large egg,plus 1 yolk, room temperature
1½tspvanilla extract
2¾cupsall-purpose flour
2tspcornstarch
1tspbaking soda
¾tspsalt
1¾cupsemisweet chocolate chips,plus additional for tops, optional

Instructions

Combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and sugar in a large bowl. Stir well until combined.
Add the egg and egg yolk, then stir well.
Stir in the vanilla extract. Set aside.
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the flour mixture to wet ingredients, then stir well until there are no flour streaks.
Stir in the chocolate chips.
Place the dough in the refrigerator, then chill for 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Prepare cookie sheets by lining with parchment paper.
Scoop the dough by rounded 1½ tablespoons onto the prepared cookie sheets, placing at least 2 inches apart.
Bake for 11 minutes.
Gently press additional chocolate chips into the tops of the warm cookies.
Allow to cool completely on cookie sheets.
Serve, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Cookies may still seem slightly soft in the centers after baking, which is fine as they will cook completely on the cookie sheets.
Don’t over-bake or the cookies will be too hard.

Nutrition

Calories: 122.62kcal
Fat: 6.29g
Saturated Fat: 3.83g
Trans Fat: 0.17g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.78g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.27g
Carbohydrates: 16.44g
Fiber: 0.60g
Sugar: 9.84g
Protein: 1.26g
Cholesterol: 14.98mg
Sodium: 63.10mg
Calcium: 8.53mg
Potassium: 41.09mg
Iron: 0.62mg
Vitamin A: 36.28µg

Pro Tip for Achieving the Perfect Texture in Chocolate Chip Cookies

To ensure your chocolate chip cookies are soft and chewy, avoid overbaking them. They may appear slightly undercooked when you take them out of the oven, but they will continue to cook on the hot baking sheet. Also, chilling the dough before baking helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too much, resulting in a thicker, chewier cookie.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chill the dough: Chilling the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes helps solidify the fats and relax the gluten, resulting in a better texture and flavor.

Use a cookie scoop: Using a cookie scoop ensures uniform cookie size, which promotes even baking and a professional presentation.

Room temperature ingredients: Allow the butter and egg to come to room temperature before starting the recipe to ensure even mixing and a smoother batter.

Parchment paper: Line the baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Preheat the oven: Preheating the oven in advance ensures that it's at the correct temperature when the cookies are ready to bake, saving time in the long run.

Substitute Ingredients For Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and moisture to the cookies as butter. It also adds a subtle coconut flavor.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar caramel-like flavor and can be used as a 1:1 replacement for brown sugar in most recipes.
sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add sweetness and moisture to the cookies, and it also adds a hint of maple flavor.
large egg - Substitute with flaxseed egg: To make a flaxseed egg, mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This can replace the binding and moisture properties of a regular egg.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nuttier flavor and extra fiber to the cookies while still providing the necessary structure.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can help to create a softer and chewier texture in the cookies, similar to the effect of cornstarch.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: If you don't have baking soda, you can use baking powder as a substitute, but keep in mind that the cookies may spread a bit more.
semisweet chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips can provide a richer and slightly less sweet flavor compared to semisweet chocolate chips.

Presenting the Perfect Batch of Chocolate Chip Cookies

Elevate the cookie with a garnish: Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookie to enhance the flavors and provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
Create a beautiful plating: Arrange the cookies on a sleek, modern plate with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.
Incorporate a complementary sauce: Drizzle a warm caramel or chocolate sauce on the plate in an artistic manner to add a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Pair with a gourmet ice cream: Serve the cookies alongside a scoop of artisanal vanilla bean ice cream for a luxurious and indulgent dessert experience.
Present on a wooden serving board: Showcase the cookies on a rustic wooden board, accompanied by a small dish of fresh berries for a charming and inviting display.
Use edible flowers for a pop of color: Garnish the plate with delicate, edible flowers such as pansies or violets to add a touch of natural beauty and a hint of floral fragrance.
Serve with a side of whipped cream: Offer a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side, dusted with cocoa powder, to provide a creamy and luscious accompaniment to the cookies.
Create a cookie tower: Stack the cookies in a pyramid formation, drizzling a fine chocolate ganache over the top for a visually stunning and impressive dessert presentation.
Incorporate a touch of gold leaf: Add a touch of edible gold leaf to the cookies for a touch of opulence and a luxurious, upscale aesthetic.
Present on a fine china platter: Arrange the cookies on a delicate, ornate china platter, accompanied by a sprig of mint for a classic and refined serving option.

Essential Tools for Baking Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Mixing bowl: A large, round bowl used for mixing ingredients together, such as batter or dough.
Whisk: A kitchen tool used for whipping and mixing ingredients together, typically made of metal loops.
Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for lifting, flipping, and spreading ingredients.
Baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking cookies, pastries, and other baked goods.
Parchment paper: A non-stick paper used for lining baking sheets and pans to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Cookie scoop: A utensil designed for scooping and portioning cookie dough onto baking sheets, ensuring consistent cookie sizes.
Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking and cooking food by exposing it to dry heat.

Storing and Freezing Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Allow the chocolate chip cookies to cool completely before storing. If stored while still warm, the cookies may become soggy or stick together.
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To maintain their soft and chewy texture, place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies. The bread will absorb excess moisture and keep the cookies fresh.
For longer storage, freeze the chocolate chip cookies. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Frozen cookies can be stored for up to 3 months. To thaw, remove the desired number of cookies from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
Alternatively, you can freeze the cookie dough for later use. Scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. When ready to bake, remove the desired number of dough balls from the freezer, place them on a prepared baking sheet, and let them thaw slightly while preheating the oven. Bake as directed, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time if needed.

How To Reheat Leftover Chocolate Chip Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chocolate chip cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 3-5 minutes, or until they are warm and slightly soft to the touch. This method will help restore the cookies' original texture and make them taste freshly baked.
For a quicker option, place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the cookies to become too soft or even rubbery.
If you prefer a slightly crispy exterior, heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Place the cookies in the pan and cover with a lid. Heat for 1-2 minutes, or until the cookies are warm and slightly crispy on the outside.
For a more indulgent treat, crumble the leftover chocolate chip cookies over a scoop of your favorite ice cream. The combination of warm, gooey cookies and cold, creamy ice cream is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
If you have a few cookies left and want to try something different, make cookie butter. Blend the cookies in a food processor until they form a smooth paste. You can spread this delicious concoction on toast, use it as a dip for fresh fruit, or even swirl it into your morning oatmeal for a decadent breakfast treat.

Interesting Trivia About Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

The chocolate chip cookie was invented by Ruth Wakefield in 1938. She added chopped up chocolate to a cookie recipe, expecting the chocolate to melt and create a chocolate cookie. However, the chocolate pieces retained their shape, and the chocolate chip cookie was born. This accidental creation became a classic American treat and is now enjoyed worldwide.

Is Making Chocolate Chip Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?

The soft and chewy chocolate chip cookies recipe is cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are common pantry items, and the recipe yields a large batch. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10, making it budget-friendly. The cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed as a snack or dessert. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9 out of 10, considering its simplicity, affordability, and delicious outcome.

Are Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?

This chocolate chip cookie recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients - butter, sugar, and all-purpose flour - are high in saturated fat, added sugars, and refined carbohydrates. These ingredients, when consumed in excess, can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. The recipe also lacks any significant sources of fiber, vitamins, or minerals that could offset the negative impact of the less healthy ingredients.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
Reduce the amount of sugar by 25-50% to decrease the overall sugar content
Use dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher) instead of semisweet chips to lower the sugar content and increase the antioxidants
Replace half of the butter with mashed avocado or Greek yogurt to reduce the saturated fat content and add healthy fats or protein
Add in some chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to increase the protein, fiber, and healthy fat content
Experiment with adding dried fruits, such as cranberries or raisins, to boost the fiber and nutrient content while providing natural sweetness

Editor's Opinion on This Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe

This soft and chewy chocolate chip cookie recipe is a classic favorite that delivers on flavor and texture. The combination of brown sugar and butter creates a rich, caramel-like taste, while the addition of cornstarch ensures a soft and chewy texture. The use of semisweet chocolate chips adds a perfect balance of sweetness to each bite. The chilling of the dough helps to develop the flavors and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking. Overall, this recipe is a winner for anyone looking to indulge in a delicious, homemade chocolate chip cookie.

Enhance Your Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for pairing with these soft and chewy chocolate chip cookies.

Grilled Pineapple Slices: Juicy grilled pineapple slices with a caramelized exterior, adding a tropical twist to your dessert spread.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Tender Brussels sprouts coated in a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, offering a savory contrast to the sweetness of the chocolate chip cookies.

Similar Cookie Recipes to Try

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil creates a rich and flavorful soup that will warm you up from the inside out.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Garlic parmesan roasted broccoli is a delicious and healthy side dish that pairs perfectly with any main course. The crispy broccoli florets are coated in a savory garlic and parmesan mixture, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Mango coconut chia pudding is a refreshing and nutritious dessert that is perfect for a light and satisfying treat. The combination of sweet mango and creamy coconut creates a tropical flavor that will transport you to a sunny paradise.

Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing large mushroom caps with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic bruschetta. Toasted baguette slices are topped with a mixture of ripe tomatoes, garlic, basil, and balsamic vinegar for a burst of fresh flavors in every bite.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and flavorful Alfredo sauce. The dish is then served over a bed of perfectly cooked fettuccine noodles, creating a satisfying and comforting meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a quick and delicious stir fry using tender strips of beef, vibrant and crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce. The dish is then served over a bed of fluffy white rice, creating a well-balanced and flavorful main course.

Why trust this Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a perfect balance of chewy and soft textures, creating the ultimate chocolate chip cookies experience. The combination of unsalted butter and brown sugar ensures a rich and indulgent flavor, while the addition of cornstarch results in a delightfully chewy center. The use of semisweet chocolate chips promises a decadent and satisfying bite in every cookie. With precise instructions and carefully selected ingredients, this recipe is a testament to creating the perfect chocolate chip cookies that you can trust and enjoy.

If you're a fan of this soft and chewy chocolate chip cookies recipe, head over to the Baking and Desserts section of our forum to share your experience, tips, and any creative twists you've tried!

FAQ:

How can I make the cookies chewier?

To make the cookies chewier, you can try increasing the brown sugar slightly and reducing the amount of white sugar. This will add more moisture to the cookies, resulting in a chewier texture.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce the amount of additional salt in the recipe to balance the overall saltiness of the cookies.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can scoop the cookie dough into individual portions and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the dough portions to a freezer bag. When you're ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I store the baked cookies?

Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep them soft and chewy, you can also place a slice of bread in the container, which will help retain moisture.

Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semisweet?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter flavor. Just keep in mind that milk chocolate chips may result in a slightly different texture and sweetness level in the final cookies.