Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Soft and chewy chocolate chip cookies are the ultimate comfort treat, with a buttery flavor, gooey centers, and crisp golden edges that melt in your mouth. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies strike the ideal balance between texture and taste. Whether baked for holidays, parties, or cozy nights at home, this recipe never disappoints.

With simple pantry ingredients and easy steps, you’ll bake cookies that rival your favorite bakery version. Each bite delivers rich chocolate flavor wrapped in soft, caramelized dough that stays chewy for days.

These cookies are perfect for every occasion — from casual snacking to gift boxes — and guarantee smiles with every batch.

Ingredients List

– 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk, room temperature
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks
– Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. Set aside.

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until the batter becomes glossy and thick.

Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain soft cookies.

Step 6: Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using) with a spatula. The dough should be slightly thick and sticky.

Step 7: Scoop 2 tablespoons of dough per cookie and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie for spreading.

Step 8: Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers appear slightly underbaked.

Step 9: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Enjoy warm for the perfect gooey texture or store once fully cooled.

Cook Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings

Makes about 24 cookies

Nutritional Information (approx. per cookie)

Calories: 210
Carbs: 28g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 10g

Storage Instructions

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For long-term storage, freeze baked cookies in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Reheat briefly in the microwave for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.

To freeze unbaked dough, portion the dough balls, freeze on a tray, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.

Pairings/Suggestions

These cookies pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee. For an indulgent dessert, sandwich a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies. They’re also perfect for lunchbox treats or cookie gift boxes during holidays.

Seasonal Relevance

Soft and chewy chocolate chip cookies are timeless — perfect for all seasons. Bake them for Christmas cookie platters, Valentine’s Day gifts, or summer picnics. Their comforting flavor makes them especially popular during fall and winter when cozy desserts are most loved.

Health Benefits

While a treat at heart, these cookies offer small nutritional perks. The use of brown sugar adds moisture and trace minerals like calcium and potassium. Adding nuts can boost healthy fats and protein. For a healthier twist, substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour or use dark chocolate chips rich in antioxidants. Moderation allows you to enjoy these cookies guilt-free.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Easy to make with basic ingredients	Best texture when eaten fresh
Soft and chewy texture loved by all ages	Can spread too much if butter is too warm
Customizable with nuts, chocolate types, or sea salt	Requires chilling if room is warm
Great for gifting and sharing	Hard to stop at one!

Conclusion

Soft and chewy chocolate chip cookies are a timeless classic that deliver pure baking joy. With buttery dough, melted chocolate, and perfect chewiness, every bite feels like home. They’re simple enough for beginners yet delicious enough to impress seasoned bakers.

Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a school event, or just a midnight craving, this recipe never fails. Keep the ingredients on hand, and you’ll always be just minutes away from warm, gooey perfection.

FAQs

Q1: How can I make my cookies extra chewy?
Use more brown sugar than white sugar and avoid overbaking. Slightly underbaked centers make cookies chewier once cooled.

Q2: Can I chill the dough before baking?
Yes, chilling the dough for 30–60 minutes prevents spreading and enhances flavor, creating thicker cookies.

Q3: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce added salt to ¼ teaspoon to balance the flavor.

Q4: Why did my cookies turn out flat?
Butter that’s too hot or overmixing the dough can cause spreading. Let the melted butter cool slightly before mixing.

Q5: How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. The texture remains soft and delicious.

Q6: What’s the best way to reheat stored cookies?
Microwave for 10 seconds or warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3–4 minutes to restore the soft texture.

Q7: Can I add other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Try peanut butter chips, white chocolate chunks, dried cranberries, or toffee bits for variety.