Are you craving a warm, gooey chocolate chip cookie? One that’s not just delicious but also incredibly easy to make? Then look no further! This recipe elevates the classic chocolate chip cookie with a delightful dusting of powdered sugar, creating a texture and flavor combination that's simply irresistible. It's a perfect recipe for beginner bakers and experienced cooks alike, offering a quick dinner idea or a simple treat for any occasion. Let's dive into this easy recipe for homemade happiness!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- ½ cup powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
Mixing the Dough:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect cookie texture. A stand mixer or hand mixer works best, but you can also do it by hand – just be prepared for a little arm workout!
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- 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; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Stir in the chocolate chips.
Baking the Cookies:
- Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. They will spread as they bake.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft. Keep a close eye on them – oven temperatures can vary!
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
The Finishing Touch:
- Once the cookies are completely cool, sift the powdered sugar generously over them. This adds a delicate sweetness and a beautiful snowy finish.
Tips for Perfect Cookies:
- Softened Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is truly softened, not melted. This ensures proper creaming and a tender cookie.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For thicker, chewier cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Baking Time Varies: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cookies and adjust baking time as needed.
Variations:
- Nuts: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or macadamia nuts to the dough for added crunch and flavor.
- Different Chocolate: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, comforting twist.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 8-10g
- Sugar: 15-20g
This nutritional information is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This delicious chocolate chip cookie recipe with powdered sugar is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a simple yet elegant dessert perfect for sharing with family and friends, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and delicious dishes. Enjoy!