Craving that warm, gooey, chocolatey goodness of a classic Nestle Toll House cookie but want to control the portion size or simply don't need a whole batch? This recipe takes the iconic Nestle Toll House cookie recipe and perfectly halves it, giving you a delicious smaller batch without sacrificing any of that legendary flavour. Perfect for a quick treat or a small gathering, this recipe is an easy win for any baker, from beginner to expert. Get ready to enjoy the ultimate halved homemade deliciousness!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet, milk chocolate, or a mix!)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Butter and Sugars
Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a medium bowl until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect cookie texture. Use an electric mixer for best results, but a good old-fashioned whisk will work too, just be prepared for a little arm workout!
Step 2: Add Flavor and Salt
Beat in the vanilla extract and salt. The vanilla adds depth, and the salt balances the sweetness – don’t skip it!
Step 3: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, leading to tough cookies.
Step 4: Stir in the Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the chocolate chips. Resist the urge to eat them all before they go into the batter!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm with a glass of cold milk for the ultimate treat.
Tips for the Best Halved Batch:
- Softened Butter is Key: Ensure your butter is truly softened, not melted. This helps create a smooth, creamy batter.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing leads to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Proper Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies while they bake. Oven temperatures can vary.
- Cooling is Important: Let the cookies cool completely on the rack before storing to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Variations:
- Nuts: Add 1/4 cup of chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or macadamia nuts) for added crunch and flavor.
- Different Chocolate: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, or add chunks of dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg adds a warm, comforting touch.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-170 Fat: 8-10g Sugar: 10-12g
This halved recipe delivers the same amazing taste with less commitment. It's a quick dinner idea for a smaller household or a perfect way to satisfy a chocolate craving without the guilt of eating an entire batch. Enjoy this easy recipe for healthy meals and delicious dishes that are quick to make. It's a guaranteed addition to your best recipes!