Are you craving that warm, gooey, melt-in-your-mouth sensation only a perfectly baked chocolate chip cookie can deliver? Forget searching for a Mrs. Fields cookie recipe book PDF – we're sharing the secret to achieving that iconic Mrs. Fields taste right in your own kitchen! This recipe is easier than you think, perfect for beginners and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for seasoned bakers. Get ready to unleash your inner baker and create batches of these delicious, homemade cookies that rival your favorite bakery.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or more, if you're feeling generous!)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cream Together the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is best done with an electric mixer, but you can achieve similar results with a sturdy hand mixer or even a wooden spoon if you're feeling ambitious!
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 on 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, resulting in perfectly textured cookies.
Step 4: Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies. A few lumps are okay!
Step 5: Stir in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the chocolate chips. Resist the urge to devour them all before they make it into the dough!
Step 6: Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended)
For the best results, cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking and allows the flavors to meld.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto ungreased baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
Step 8: 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 9: 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 – or share them with friends and family!
Tips for the Perfect Cookie:
- Use good quality butter: The flavor of the butter significantly impacts the taste of your cookies.
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies.
- Chill the dough: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and enhances the flavor.
- Use a cookie scoop: For consistent size and baking time.
Variations:
- Add nuts: Walnuts, pecans, or macadamia nuts are delicious additions.
- Use different chocolate: Try dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate chips.
- Add dried fruit: Craisins, chopped apricots, or chopped dates add a nice touch.
- Make them gluten-free: Substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for regular flour.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on size and ingredients)
These delicious chocolate chip cookies are a perfect example of easy recipes and healthy meals, providing a quick dinner idea, or simply a delightful treat anytime! Enjoy your homemade cooking and the delicious dishes you create with this simple yet satisfying recipe. Happy baking!