Are you craving that perfect chocolate chip cookie? The kind that's soft, chewy, and bursting with rich chocolate flavor? Forget those flat, disappointing disappointments. Today, we're unlocking the secret to a truly legendary cookie – a recipe inspired by the iconic Mrs. Fields. This recipe delivers on the promise of warm, gooey goodness, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth. Get ready to bake up a batch that will disappear faster than you can say "chocolate chips!"
Ingredients: You'll need these pantry staples for baking success
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous baking session. Let's gather everything before we start:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or more, if you’re feeling adventurous!)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions: Step-by-step guide to cookie perfection
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying warm, delicious cookies in no time. Remember, patience is key to achieving that perfect texture.
Step 1: Creaming the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This is best done with an electric mixer, but a good workout with a hand mixer works too!
Step 2: Adding Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined.
Step 3: 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: Chocolate Chips and Nuts (Optional)
Stir in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using). The more chocolate, the merrier!
Step 5: Chilling the Dough (Important!)
This step is crucial for achieving that perfect chewy texture. Cover the bowl and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or even up to 2 hours. Chilling the dough allows the flavors to meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too thin during baking.
Step 6: Baking the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
Step 7: Bake to Golden 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: 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, with a glass of milk – or even better, a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Tips and Variations for Baking Success
- Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted. This helps create a smooth, creamy dough.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies.
- Baking Time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cookies to avoid over-baking. Start checking for doneness around 9 minutes.
- Add-ins: Get creative! Try different types of chocolate chips, dried fruits, or spices. White chocolate chips and cranberries are a delicious combination.
- Freezing Dough: For future baking convenience, you can freeze the cookie dough in scoops on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once frozen.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie - Approximate)
These values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 8-10g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Sugar: 12-15g
- Protein: 2-3g
This recipe is perfect for easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, or simply satisfying your craving for homemade cooking. It's a delicious dish that's guaranteed to become a family favorite. Enjoy your baking!