Are you craving the warm, gooey goodness of a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie, but dairy doesn't agree with you? Don't worry! This recipe proves that delicious and dairy-free can absolutely coexist. These cookies are not only incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight treat or a weekend baking project, but they're also surprisingly healthy and completely satisfying. Get ready to enjoy the best dairy-free chocolate chip cookies you've ever tasted – a perfect addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dairy-free butter, softened (I recommend Miyoko's Kitchen or Melt brand)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan option - see tips below)
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups dairy-free chocolate chips (Enjoy Life brand is a great option)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This simple step prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Cream the Butter and Sugars:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened dairy-free butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This is crucial for achieving that perfect cookie texture. Use an electric mixer for best results.
Add Wet Ingredients:
- Beat in the vanilla extract and eggs (or flax eggs) until well combined. If using flax eggs, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken before adding.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Add Chocolate Chips:
- Stir in the dairy-free chocolate chips.
Bake the Cookies:
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Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
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Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft.
Cool and Enjoy:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Best Dairy-Free Cookies:
- Softened Butter is Key: Make sure your dairy-free butter is properly softened. This will ensure that it blends smoothly with the sugars and creates a light and fluffy dough.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For thicker, chewier cookies, chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Adjust Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep a close eye on your cookies while they bake. Start checking for doneness around 9 minutes.
Variations:
- Nut Butter Cookies: Substitute ½ cup of your favorite nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter) for part of the dairy-free butter.
- Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: Add ½ cup of rolled oats and ½ cup of raisins to the dough.
- Add-ins Galore!: Get creative with your add-ins! Try chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or other dairy-free chocolate varieties.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-180
- Fat: 8-10g
- Saturated Fat: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Sugar: 12-15g
- Protein: 2-3g
(Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
These dairy-free chocolate chip cookies are a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy. They're perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while maintaining a healthy and delicious diet. This easy recipe is a great addition to your repertoire of homemade cooking, offering simple yet satisfying results every time. Enjoy!