Are you craving warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies but don't have a mixer? Don't worry! This recipe proves that delicious, homemade cookies are entirely achievable without any fancy equipment. This easy recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and anyone looking for a quick and satisfying baking project. Get ready to enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade chocolate chip cookies, made entirely by hand!
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 (semi-sweet, milk chocolate, or dark chocolate – your choice!)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula and work until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is a great arm workout! Don't worry if it takes a few minutes – the effort is worth the delicious result.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined before moving to the next step.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents for perfectly fluffy cookies.
Step 4: Gradually Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
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.
Step 5: Stir in Chocolate Chips:
Gently fold in the chocolate chips. Resist the urge to devour them all before they go into the dough!
Step 6: Prepare and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection:
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 as ovens can vary.
Step 8: 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. Enjoy warm, with a glass of milk – pure bliss!
Tips for the Best Chocolate Chip Cookies:
- Softened Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is truly softened; this will make creaming it much easier.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix only 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: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cookies and adjust the baking time as needed.
Variations:
- Nuts: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or macadamia nuts to the dough.
- Different Chocolate: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even chocolate chunks.
- Spices: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced cookie.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on the type of chocolate and size of cookie)
This recipe provides a delicious and easy way to enjoy homemade chocolate chip cookies without the need for a mixer. It's a perfect quick dinner idea or a fun weekend baking project for the whole family. Enjoy!