These chocolate chip cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with gooey chocolate. Ideal for any occasion, this recipe includes variations, tips, and fun twists to make them your own!

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (220g) packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 cups (340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Optional Add-ins and Variations

• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• ½ cup shredded coconut
• 1 tsp cinnamon for a warm twist
• ½ cup crushed pretzels for a salty-sweet contrast

Preparation

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour (optional for thicker cookies)
Bake Time: 10–12 minutes per batch
Yield: About 36 cookies

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars:
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
   Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in Chocolate Chips:
   Gently fold in the chocolate chips and any additional mix-ins you like.
6. Chill the Dough (Optional):
   For thicker cookies, refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour.
7. Shape and Bake:
   Scoop dough using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, roll into balls, and place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are soft.
8. Cool and Serve:
   Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success

• For Chewier Cookies: Use more brown sugar than granulated sugar.
• For Crispier Edges: Flatten the dough balls slightly before baking.
• For Extra Gooeyness: Press a few extra chocolate chips onto the tops of the cookies before baking.

Fun Twists

• Stuffed Cookies: Add a dollop of Nutella or peanut butter in the center before sealing the dough.
• S’mores Cookies: Mix in mini marshmallows and crushed graham crackers.
• Espresso Kick: Add 1 tsp instant espresso powder for a coffee-flavored twist.

Final Touch

Serve these chocolate chip cookies warm with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a fantastic gift when stacked and tied with a ribbon!

Enjoy your baking adventure! Let me know how you customize your cookies. 😊