The classic chocolate chip cookie is a beloved treat known for its perfect balance of buttery dough and rich chocolate chips. You begin by creaming butter and sugar together until fluffy, then blend in eggs and vanilla for a rich, smooth base. Mixing in flour, baking soda, and salt creates the ideal texture, while generous amounts of chocolate chips provide delightful bursts of sweetness. You spoon the dough onto a baking sheet, bake until the edges turn golden brown, and the centers remain soft and chewy. Each bite offers a satisfying combination of crisp edges and gooey chocolate, making it a timeless favorite.
The history of the classic chocolate chip cookie dates back to the 1930s, when Ruth Graves Wakefield accidentally created it at her Toll House Inn in Whitman, Massachusetts. She added chopped Nestlé semi-sweet chocolate to her cookie dough, expecting it to melt and mix in. Instead, the chocolate pieces held their shape, resulting in the first chocolate chip cookie. In 1939, Wakefield struck a deal with Nestlé, allowing them to print her recipe on their chocolate bar packaging in exchange for a lifetime supply of chocolate. This partnership helped popularize the cookie, turning it into a household staple and a beloved treat enjoyed by cookie lovers worldwide.
#### Prep Time:
15 minutes
#### Cook Time:
10-12 minutes
#### Total Time:
25-27 minutes
#### Servings:
24 cookies
#### Yield:
2 dozen cookies
#### Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 large eggs
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
#### Instructions:
1. **Preheat your oven** to 375°F (190°C).
2. **In a large mixing bowl,** beat the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy.
3. **Add the eggs** one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. **In a separate bowl,** combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, beating until well combined.
5. **Stir in the chocolate chips** and nuts (if using).
6. **Drop by rounded tablespoon** onto ungreased baking sheets.
7. **Bake** in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown.
8. **Allow the cookies** to cool on the baking sheets for a couple of minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Enjoy your freshly baked chocolate chip cookies!