Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe | Soft, Gooey, and Easy to Make

Introduction

Nothing compares to the comforting aroma of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies drifting through the kitchen. That soft center, the gooey chocolate chips, and the slightly crisp edges make chewy chocolate chip cookies one of the most beloved treats in homes around the world. These cookies are more than just a dessert. They evoke childhood memories, cozy weekends, and moments of pure indulgence after a long day.

Unlike their crispy or cakey cousins, chewy chocolate chip cookies deliver the perfect texture that holds together without crumbling. The secret lies in the balance of ingredients and technique. Choosing the right kind of sugar, the proper amount of butter, and baking for the exact number of minutes all influence the final result. Many home bakers search endlessly for the perfect recipe, but once you get the hang of a chewy version, you’ll never go back.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or someone just starting out, this recipe provides a foolproof guide to mastering the chewy chocolate chip cookie. It’s easy to follow, doesn’t require fancy equipment, and delivers consistent, mouthwatering results every single time. The beauty of this cookie lies in its flexibility too — you can tweak it to match your personal preferences or dietary needs without compromising on taste or texture.

Let’s dive into the ingredients that bring these cookies to life.

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Ingredients Needed

Below is a complete list of ingredients for making chewy chocolate chip cookies, along with the approximate calorie count for each ingredient. Keep in mind that calorie values may vary slightly based on brands and portion sizes.

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories
All-purpose flour	2 ¼ cups (270g)	990
Baking soda	1 teaspoon	0
Salt	½ teaspoon	0
Unsalted butter (softened)	1 cup (226g)	1620
Brown sugar (packed)	1 cup (200g)	830
Granulated sugar	½ cup (100g)	387
Eggs	2 large	140
Vanilla extract	2 teaspoons	24
Semi-sweet chocolate chips	2 cups (340g)	1600

Estimated total per batch: ~5591 calories
Per cookie (yields ~24): ~233 calories

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Space

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking. This also ensures even baking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step helps distribute the leavening agent and salt evenly throughout the dough, which is key for consistency.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes and helps trap air, giving the cookies a soft structure.You can also explore Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe for a unique twist.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then pour in the vanilla extract and mix again. The eggs help bind everything together, while the vanilla adds depth and aroma.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Do this in small batches to avoid overmixing, which can lead to tough cookies. Stir until the dough just comes together and no streaks of flour remain.

Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate Chips

Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold in the chocolate chips. You can use a mix of semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips if you want extra flavor variety. For more texture, consider adding chopped nuts or chunks of dark chocolate.

Step 7: Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended)

If you have time, chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps solidify the fat in the dough, which results in thicker and chewier cookies when baked.

Step 8: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. The edges should look golden, while the center still looks slightly underdone.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. They will continue to cook slightly as they cool, achieving the perfect chewy center.

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Tips for Customizing the Recipe

Getting creative with your chocolate chip cookies is half the fun. Here are some easy ways to make this recipe your own:

• Add texture: Fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or shredded coconut for added crunch.
• Use browned butter: For a deeper, nutty flavor, brown the butter before mixing.
• Mix up the chocolate: Try dark chocolate chunks, white chocolate chips, or even toffee bits for variety.
• Go gluten-free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Lower the sugar: Reduce each type of sugar by ¼ cup for a slightly less sweet but still chewy cookie.
• Make it dairy-free: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate chips to suit dietary needs.

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Nutritional Information

While these cookies are definitely a treat, it’s helpful to know what’s inside each bite. Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown per cookie, based on a batch yielding 24 cookies:

Keep in mind that nutritional values will vary depending on ingredient brands and optional add-ins.

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Serving Suggestions

Chewy chocolate chip cookies are versatile and perfect for almost any occasion. Enjoy them warm with a cold glass of milk, or serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For a fun twist, make cookie sandwiches by spreading a layer of peanut butter, Nutella, or cream cheese frosting between two cookies.

If you’re hosting a party, arrange them on a dessert tray with brownies and fruit for a visually appealing spread. They also make great gifts. Simply wrap a few in parchment and tie them with twine for a homemade touch that friends and family will love.

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FAQs

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can portion the dough and freeze it on a baking sheet. Once frozen, store the balls in a freezer bag for up to three months. Bake directly from frozen by adding a minute or two to the bake time.

Why are my cookies flat?
Flat cookies often result from warm dough or too much sugar. Make sure your butter isn’t melted and chill the dough if needed before baking.

Can I make these cookies vegan?
Absolutely. Replace the butter with vegan butter, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water), and use dairy-free chocolate chips.

How long do they stay fresh?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they stay fresh for about five days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to three months.

What type of sugar makes cookies chewier?
Brown sugar is key to chewy cookies. Its molasses content retains moisture, giving the cookie a soft and chewy texture.

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Conclusion

Baking the perfect chewy chocolate chip cookies doesn’t require professional training or a list of hard-to-find ingredients. With a few pantry staples, some simple techniques, and a little bit of love, you can create cookies that rival those from your favorite bakery. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these cookies always hit the spot.