How to Make the Perfect Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chocolate chip cookies are a timeless treat that everyone loves. Whether you prefer them soft and chewy or slightly crispy, achieving the perfect texture and flavor requires the right balance of ingredients and baking techniques. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps, tips, and tricks to make the perfect classic chocolate chip cookies.

Ingredients for Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies

To make the perfect batch, you’ll need:

Dry Ingredients:

2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) brown sugar (packed)
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Add-Ins:

2 cups (340g) semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients and Equipment

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Measure and set out all ingredients to ensure a smooth baking process.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This helps distribute the leavening agents evenly, ensuring the cookies bake uniformly.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together using a hand or stand mixer. Mix on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step helps incorporate air, giving your cookies the perfect texture.

4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.

5. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Use a spatula or mixer on low speed to avoid overmixing, which can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined.

6. Fold in the Chocolate Chips and Nuts

Gently stir in the chocolate chips and, if desired, chopped nuts. This step ensures an even distribution without overworking the dough.

7. Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended)

For thicker, more flavorful cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours). This allows the flavors to develop and helps prevent excessive spreading.

8. Scoop and Bake the Cookies

Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers look slightly underbaked.

9. Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy warm with a glass of milk, or store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Pro Tips for the Best Chocolate Chip Cookies

✔ Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensures even mixing and better texture.
✔ Don’t Overmix the Dough – Too much mixing can lead to tough cookies.
✔ Chill the Dough – Helps control spreading and enhances flavor.
✔ Use Quality Chocolate – Opt for real chocolate chips or chunks for the best taste.
✔ Bake One Sheet at a Time – Ensures even baking and better texture.

Follow these steps and tips, and you’ll have the perfect batch of classic chocolate chip cookies every time!

Share This Page:

How to Make the Perfect Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies