A simple step-by-step recipe for making classic homemade cookies:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips (or your preferred mix-ins like nuts, dried fruits, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
1.1 Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars:
2.1 In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Add Vanilla and Eggs:
3.1 Add the vanilla extract and crack in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition until smooth and combined.
4. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
4.1 In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
5.1 Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients in the large mixing bowl. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies tough.
6. Add Chocolate Chips or Mix-Ins:
6.1 Gently fold in the chocolate chips (or your chosen mix-ins) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Scoop and Shape the Cookies:
7.1 Use a spoon or a cookie scoop to drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading during baking.
8. Bake the Cookies:
8.1 Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges but still slightly soft in the center.
8.2 Keep in mind that baking times can vary based on your oven and the size of the cookies.
9. Cool and Enjoy
9.1 Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
10. Store and Serve:
10.1 Once completely cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
10.2 Enjoy your homemade cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!
Feel free to get creative with your cookie recipes by trying different types of mix-ins, such as nuts, dried fruits, coconut flakes, or even different types of chocolate chips.