Cookies
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Delicious homemade cookies that are perfect for any occasion.
There's nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home. This recipe is simple yet yields delightful results, making it a favorite among families.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Soft and chewy texture that satisfies your sweet tooth
- Versatile recipe to customize with your favorite mix-ins
- Perfect for sharing with friends and family
The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion
Cookies are a timeless treat that never goes out of style. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a holiday gathering, or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, these homemade cookies fit the bill perfectly. Their delightful aroma wafting through the kitchen is sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Plus, they can be made in large batches, making them ideal for sharing with friends and family.
What makes this cookie recipe even better is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Love nuts? Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans. Prefer a fruity twist? Add dried cranberries or raisins. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a cookie that’s uniquely yours!
Baking Made Easy
One of the best things about this cookie recipe is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a batch of delicious cookies in no time. The process is straightforward, making it a great activity for beginner bakers or even a fun family project. Just gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and you’ll soon have warm, gooey cookies ready to enjoy.
Additionally, this recipe allows for creativity in the kitchen. Experiment with different add-ins and flavorings to discover your favorite combinations. Whether you’re a fan of classic chocolate chip or adventurous with spices like cinnamon, this recipe serves as a fantastic base for your baking experiments.
Storing and Serving Your Cookies
Once your cookies are baked to perfection, proper storage is key to keeping them fresh and delicious. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before transferring them to an airtight container. This will help maintain their soft and chewy texture for days. If you prefer a crunchier cookie, store them in a loosely covered container instead.
For serving, consider pairing your cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for the ultimate treat. They also make delightful gifts when packaged in decorative boxes or bags. Whether enjoyed immediately or shared with loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring joy and satisfaction.
Ingredients
Basic Cookie Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons hot water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Mix and match ingredients to create your favorite flavors!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
Combine Dry Ingredients
Dissolve baking soda in hot water and add to the mixture along with salt. Stir in flour, chocolate chips, and any additional mix-ins.
Scoop and Bake
Drop by large spoonfuls onto ungreased pans and bake for about 10 minutes or until edges are nicely browned.
Let the cookies cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Tips for Perfect Cookies
To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time, measure your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and even small variations can affect the outcome. For best results, use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar.
Another tip is to not overmix the dough once you've added the flour. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, and then fold in your chocolate chips or other mix-ins gently.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to make these cookies a bit healthier, consider substituting some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This adds fiber and nutrients without compromising the taste. Additionally, you can reduce the sugar slightly or use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for a healthier twist.
For those with dietary restrictions, there are plenty of alternatives available. Use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips for a vegan version, or swap out regular flour for gluten-free options. With a few adjustments, you can enjoy these delicious cookies while adhering to your dietary needs.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
→ How do I store the cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag.
→ What can I use instead of chocolate chips?
Feel free to use white chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruits as alternatives!
Cookies
Delicious homemade cookies that are perfect for any occasion.
Created by: Anya Coleman
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
Basic Cookie Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons hot water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
Dissolve baking soda in hot water and add to the mixture along with salt. Stir in flour, chocolate chips, and any additional mix-ins.
Drop by large spoonfuls onto ungreased pans and bake for about 10 minutes or until edges are nicely browned.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 70mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g