Award Winning Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies are set to bring comfort and joy to your baking endeavors. These cookies are soft, chewy, and filled with melted chocolate chips, making them an irresistible treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. With their delightful texture and rich flavor, they are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why Make This Award Winning Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies have won hearts, and for good reason! They boast a soft and tender texture, enhanced by the perfect amount of chocolate chips that melt in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for a casual family gathering, a birthday party, or just because you want a sweet snack, these cookies fit every occasion. Plus, they are simple to make, requiring only basic ingredients you likely already have at home. The smell wafting through your kitchen while they bake will draw everyone in, making them a sure hit!
How to Make Award Winning Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies
Baking these cookies is a delightful experience. You’ll start by gathering all of your ingredients and moving to the kitchen. The method is straightforward — from creaming the butter and sugars to folding in chocolate chips. This recipe walks you through each step, ensuring that you end up with perfectly soft cookies. Just remember, the secret lies in underbaking them slightly; they will continue to cook a bit as they cool, so don’t worry if they aren’t fully set when you take them out of the oven!
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. This crucial step ensures even distribution of leavening agents throughout the dry ingredients.
- Using an electric mixer, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl. Beat for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, creating the foundation for soft, tender cookies.
- Add vanilla extract and eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Ensure each ingredient is well incorporated to develop a rich, consistent flavor.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies. Blend just until the ingredients are combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips and nuts (if using) with a spatula, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets. Space cookies about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading during baking.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes, watching carefully. The edges should be lightly golden, while the centers remain soft and slightly underbaked. Remember, they’ll continue cooking on the hot baking sheet after removal.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Information
Per cookie (assuming the recipe makes about 24 cookies):
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 23g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g
How to Serve Award Winning Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies are perfect just as they are, warm from the oven! Serve them with a cold glass of milk or your favorite coffee for a classic treat. You can also enjoy them as a dessert at gatherings or crumble them over ice cream for a delicious sundae. For a festive twist, try adding sprinkles on top before baking!
How to Store Award Winning Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies
To keep these cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, layered with parchment paper, and freeze for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Expert Tips for Perfect Award Winning Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing. Softened butter incorporates air, leading to fluffier cookies.
- Chill the Dough: If you have time, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and can improve texture.
- Don’t Overbake: Remember that the cookies will continue to set after you remove them from the oven, so it’s okay if they appear slightly underbaked.
Delicious Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Chocolate Overload: Substitute some of the semi-sweet chocolate with dark or white chocolate chips for a different flavor experience.
- Seasonal Flavors: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or pumpkin spice during the fall to switch things up!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine, but the texture and flavor may slightly differ. Butter usually gives a richer taste and softer texture.
2. What can I substitute for eggs?
You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg). This will keep your cookies soft.
3. How do I make my cookies stay soft?
To help the cookies stay soft, avoid overbaking them. Also, having a higher ratio of brown sugar vs. white sugar can contribute to moisture retention, keeping them soft and chewy.
Conclusion
These Award Winning Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful addition to any baking repertoire. The combination of soft, chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor will satisfy your cravings. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy baking these delicious cookies! Don’t forget to share them with family and friends — or keep them all to yourself if you prefer! Happy baking!