Are you craving a warm, gooey cookie that melts in your mouth and satisfies your sweet tooth? Look no further! This milk chocolate chunk cookie recipe is the perfect blend of easy preparation, delicious taste, and undeniable comfort. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver perfectly chewy cookies that will become a family favorite. Get ready to experience the ultimate homemade goodness!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
- 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 milk chocolate chunks (or chips)
Instructions: Let's Bake Some Happiness
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; it makes the process quicker and easier.
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. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
Step 4: Stir in the Chocolate Chunks
Gently fold in the milk chocolate chunks. Resist the urge to overmix; you want to keep some chocolate chunks whole for that delightful burst of chocolate in every bite.
Step 5: Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended)
Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. This step helps prevent the cookies from spreading too thin during baking, resulting in thicker, chewier cookies. If you're short on time, 15 minutes will still make a difference.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
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 7: 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 cold milk – pure bliss!
Tips for the Best Milk Chocolate Chunk Cookies
- Softened Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is truly softened but not melted. This will ensure proper creaming and a better cookie texture.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to tough cookies. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is a game-changer for thicker, chewier cookies.
- Baking Time Varies: Ovens vary, so keep a close eye on your cookies during the last few minutes of baking.
Variations to Delight Your Taste Buds
- Dark Chocolate Chunk Cookies: Substitute dark chocolate chunks for milk chocolate.
- Add-ins: Get creative! Try adding nuts, dried cranberries, or even a sprinkle of sea salt.
- White Chocolate Chunk Cookies: Swap the milk chocolate for white chocolate chunks for a delightful twist.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie - Approximate)
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 8-10g
- Sugar: 15-20g
These milk chocolate chunk cookies are a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. They're perfect for quick dinner ideas, homemade cooking, and satisfying those sweet cravings. They are undoubtedly among the best recipes you'll find for delicious dishes that are simple to make. Enjoy baking!