Introduction

These chocolate chip cookies are the perfect balance of crispy edges and chewy centers. The secret is in the technique - slightly underbaking them so they continue to cook on the hot baking sheet, creating that perfect texture everyone loves.

Tips for Success

• Room temperature butter: Make sure your butter is softened but not melted
• Don't overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies
• Chill the dough: 30 minutes in the fridge helps prevent spreading
• Underbake slightly: They'll continue cooking on the hot pan

Storage & Leftovers

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months, or freeze the dough balls for up to 2 months.

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Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Heat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.

3. Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, beat butter and both sugars until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla extract.

5. Combine with flour: Gradually blend in flour mixture until just combined.

6. Add chocolate chips: Stir in chocolate chips.

7. Shape cookies: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased cookie sheets, spacing 2 inches apart.

8. Bake: Bake 9-11 minutes until golden brown around edges.

9. Cool: Let cool on baking sheet for 2 minutes before removing to wire rack.

Variations

• Double chocolate: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to dry ingredients
• Nutty: Add 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• Sea salt: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before baking
• Oatmeal: Replace 1 cup flour with 1 cup old-fashioned oats

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie sheets
• Wire cooling rack