Are you craving a warm, gooey cookie that delivers the perfect balance of sweet and salty? Look no further! This chocolate chip sea salt cookie recipe is your answer. It's an easy recipe, perfect for beginner bakers, and delivers that irresistible homemade taste everyone loves. These cookies are more than just a delicious treat; they're a quick dinner idea for a satisfying dessert, a perfect addition to a cozy night in, or a delightful homemade gift for friends and family. Let's get baking!
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
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions:
Step 1: Cream Together the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect cookie texture. Use an electric mixer for best results.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: 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!
Step 4: Stir in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
Step 5: Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended)
For thicker, chewier cookies, chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too thin during baking.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto ungreased baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie. Sprinkle each cookie with a pinch of flaky sea salt.
Step 7: Baking Time
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: Cooling and Enjoying
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Tips for the Best Chocolate Chip Sea Salt Cookies:
- Use good quality butter and chocolate chips for the best flavor.
- Don't overmix the dough, or your cookies will be tough.
- Chilling the dough is recommended for thicker cookies, but it's not strictly necessary.
- Use flaky sea salt for the best textural contrast.
Variations:
- Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts.
- White Chocolate Craving: Substitute white chocolate chips for dark or milk chocolate.
- Spiced Up: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm spice flavor.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on size and ingredients)
This recipe provides a delicious and easy way to enjoy homemade chocolate chip sea salt cookies. These easy recipes make fantastic healthy meals, satisfying sweet cravings without being overly indulgent. They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight treats to special celebrations. Enjoy!