When the craving for a classic, gooey dessert strikes, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies. The anticipation builds as you mix the ingredients, and the moment your dough hits the oven is pure magic—the warm, sweet scent of vanilla and melting chocolate transforms your kitchen into a cozy haven.
I first came across this recipe on a rainy day, looking for a way to brighten my spirits. The outcome was beautifully chewy cookies that have become a staple in my home, perfect for sharing with friends or simply indulging after a long day. With their crispy edges and soft centers, they are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Plus, what’s even better? They’re quick to prepare, and a little patience during the chilling time makes all the difference! Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and bring some homemade joy into your life.
Why are Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies so addictive?
Irresistibly chewy and filled with rich chocolate, these cookies blend simplicity with flavor perfection. Crispy edges, soft centers, and melty chocolate create a delightful texture that keeps you coming back for more. Quick prep means you can whip these up anytime, while the chilling time enhances the flavor. Perfect for sharing, they’re a guaranteed hit at parties and gatherings. Plus, their homemade goodness is far better than any fast food option!
Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to create the magic!
For the Dough
- All-purpose flour – 2 and 1/4 cups (281g); the backbone of your cookies for that perfect structure.
- Baking soda – 1 teaspoon; this helps your cookies rise beautifully!
- Cornstarch – 1 and 1/2 teaspoons; adds that coveted chewiness to your Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies.
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon; heightens the flavors and balances sweetness.
- Unsalted butter – 3/4 cup (170g/12 Tbsp), melted & cooled for 5 minutes; ensures rich flavor and a tender crumb.
- Light or dark brown sugar – 3/4 cup (150g), packed; provides moisture and a deep caramel flavor.
- Granulated sugar – 1/2 cup (100g); adds sweetness and helps with the cookie’s crispiness.
- Large egg – 1; binds everything together for a lovely texture.
- Egg yolk – 1, at room temperature; enhances richness and moisture for chewy consistency.
- Pure vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons; infuses a warm, inviting flavor that’s hard to resist.
For the Chocolate
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks – 1 and 1/4 cups (225g); the star of the show – use a mix for a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience!
How to Make Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies
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Whisk dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution, then set aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
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Mix wet ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and lump-free. Add in the egg and egg yolk, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is beautifully combined.
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Combine wet and dry: Gently pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Using a large spoon or spatula, stir until just combined, then fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks for that irresistible chocolatey goodness.
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Chill the dough: Cover the cookie dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or up to 3 days. This resting time makes your cookies extra chewy and flavorful.
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Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. These will ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
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Scoop and shape: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the chilled cookie dough. For XL cookies, use about 3 scant tablespoons; for medium-large cookies, use 2 heaping tablespoons. Roll the dough into balls, shaping them taller than wide to encourage a soft, chewy center. Place them 3 inches apart on the baking sheets.
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Bake to perfection: Pop the cookies into the oven and bake for 13–14 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The centers might look slightly underbaked—that’s perfect! Let them cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Optional: Sprinkle with sea salt for an extra flavor boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their chewy texture.
Fridge: If you want to keep them fresh for a longer time, place them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Reheating: Reheat chilled or frozen cookies in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to refresh their delightful chewiness.
What to Serve with Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Imagine hosting a cozy gathering, where the air is filled with laughter and the sweet aroma of freshly baked treats beckons friends and family to indulge.
- Cold Milk: The classic pairing! A glass of cold milk enhances the rich chocolate flavors, making each bite even more delightful.
- Coffee: The warmth and slight bitterness of coffee contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies, creating a lovely balance that awakens your taste buds.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream; the melting ice cream mixing with warm chocolate creates a decadent experience you can’t resist.
- Fresh Berries: Tart raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing burst of flavor, brightening the rich chocolate and providing a lovely pop of color on your dessert table.
- Nutty Oatmeal: Pair these cookies with a bowl of warm, nutty oatmeal for a satisfying dessert experience that fills your heart as much as it pleases your palate.
- Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzling cookies with warm salted caramel sauce brings a luscious sweetness that complements the chocolate perfectly, creating a dessert experience that feels indulgent.
- Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea makes for a comforting addition to your cookie enjoyment, enhancing the evening’s cozy vibes.
- Chocolate Fondue: Dive into the indulgence by dipping chunks of cookie into warm chocolate fondue, creating a fun and interactive dessert that everyone will love.
Expert Tips for Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 2 hours is crucial. It helps develop flavor and ensures a chewy texture, so don’t skip this step!
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Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precision when measuring flour and sugars. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Remember, the focus keyword is Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies for a reason!
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Shape Matters: Shape dough balls taller than wide. This encourages a soft center while the edges crisp up, achieving that coveted chewy consistency.
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Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies while they’re baking. Remove them when the edges are just lightly browned and the centers look slightly underbaked for ultimate chewiness.
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Experiment with Chocolates: Mix semi-sweet with milk chocolate or dark chocolate for delightful flavor variations. Different chocolate types can elevate your Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies even further!
Make Ahead Options
These Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by covering it tightly and refrigerating. This chilling not only saves you precious minutes but also enhances the flavor and texture. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto your baking sheets and follow the baking instructions. For the best result, bake only what you need, as freshly baked cookies taste best. If you have leftover dough, you can also freeze portions for up to 3 months—just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking!
Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations
Get ready to explore exciting twists on your chewy chocolate chip cookies!
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Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the chocolate perfectly. The nuttiness brings a new dimension to your chewy cookie experience.
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Dark Chocolate: Swap semi-sweet chips for dark chocolate chips to enhance the richness and depth of flavor. This variation will satisfy the sophisticated chocolate lover in your life!
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Oatmeal Twist: Incorporate 1 cup of rolled oats into the dough for a heartier cookie. The oats add texture and a wholesome touch, making them a great snack any time of day.
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Spiced Up: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a cozy, warm flavor. This aromatic enhancement can make your cookies feel extra special.
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Salted Caramel: Fold in 1/2 cup of caramel bits for a sweet, gooey surprise in each bite. A sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking creates a sweet and salty balance that is simply irresistible.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or vegan butter as a substitute for unsalted butter, and choose dairy-free chocolate chips to accommodate lactose intolerance. You’ll still achieve that delightful chewiness!
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Healthy Swap: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients. The flavor profile remains intact while imparting a subtle earthiness.
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Minty Fresh: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and some chopped Andy’s mints for a refreshing mint chocolate twist. Perfect for those who love a cool flavor fusion in their cookies!
Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right ingredients for my Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, opt for high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for the best flavor. For the flour, all-purpose works wonderfully, but make sure it’s fresh for the best results. I recommend checking your butter to ensure it’s unsalted and creamy, giving you the golden texture you crave!
How do I store Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies?
You can store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to keep them even longer, you can place them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container, which helps maintain their soft texture. Just remember to allow them to come back to room temperature for optimal enjoyment!
Can I freeze Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies, and how should I do it?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore that lovely chewiness!
What should I do if my cookies turn out too hard?
Very common! If your cookies end up too hard, it could be due to overbaking or using too much flour. To troubleshoot, ensure you measure your flour accurately—using a kitchen scale can help with precision. Also, avoid baking them until they are completely set; they should look slightly underbaked when removed from the oven for that delightful chewiness.
Are Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies suitable for my gluten-free friends?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt this recipe for gluten-free diets by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Just remember to follow the recommended measurements and keep an eye on the baking time, as gluten-free cookies may need slight adjustments!
Can my pets enjoy Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies?
No, it’s best to keep these cookies away from pets! Ingredients like chocolate and sugar can be harmful to dogs and cats. Stick to pet-friendly treats for your furry friends to ensure they’re safe while you indulge in these delicious cookies!
Irresistibly Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies You’ll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, and mix.
- Combine wet and dry: Pour wet mixture into dry ingredients. Stir until just combined, then fold in chocolate chips.
- Chill the dough: Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 325°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop and shape: Portion out chilled dough using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, shaping them tall. Place 3 inches apart on baking sheets.
- Bake to perfection: Bake for 13–14 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Let cool on baking sheet for 10 minutes.
