Classic Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

These Classic Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies are everything a perfect cookie should be—golden on the edges, soft and gooey in the center, and filled with melty chocolate chips. A timeless treat that never goes out of style.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a staple for a reason. It’s easy to follow, uses simple pantry ingredients, and results in cookies with the ideal texture and flavor. The cookies are perfectly soft in the middle with just enough crispness on the outside, and they stay chewy for days. Whether for after-school snacks, parties, or late-night cravings, these cookies are always a hit.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips

directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Scoop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are slightly underbaked.
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

Servings: 24 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 to 12 minutes
Total Time: 25 to 27 minutes

Variations

Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
Sprinkle a touch of flaky sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty contrast.
Mix in toffee bits or dried fruit for a unique twist.

storage/reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
To keep them soft longer, store with a slice of bread in the container.
Reheat in the microwave for about 8 seconds to enjoy a warm, melty center.
Cookies can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in a low oven before serving.

FAQs

Why are my cookies flat?

This can happen if the butter was too soft or the dough was not chilled. Try refrigerating the dough before baking.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, portion the dough and freeze it. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 1 to 2 minutes.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely. The dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

What makes these cookies chewy?

The higher ratio of brown sugar to white sugar and the slightly underbaked center contribute to the chewy texture.

Can I use salted butter instead?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe by half.

How do I get evenly shaped cookies?

Use a cookie scoop to portion the dough evenly for uniform size and baking.

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Yes, try milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even a mix of chocolate chunks for variety.

Why do my cookies harden after baking?

Overbaking or improper storage can cause cookies to become hard. Be sure to bake until just set and store in an airtight container.

Do I need to chill the dough?

It’s not required, but chilling can help prevent spreading and enhance flavor.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The edges should be golden, and the centers should look slightly underbaked—they will set as they cool.

Conclusion

Classic Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies are the kind of recipe everyone should have in their collection. With a perfect balance of softness, chewiness, and chocolate richness, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They’re quick to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and always delicious—bake a batch today and taste the comfort of a true classic.

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