Are you craving that irresistible taste of a classic Pepperidge Farm cookie but want to enjoy the satisfaction of making them yourself? This recipe delivers the same melt-in-your-mouth goodness, providing a delightful homemade alternative that's surprisingly easy to whip up. Forget store-bought – let's bake some happiness! This recipe offers a fantastic quick dinner option or a delightful treat for any occasion.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Items
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional, for a chocolate chip cookie variation)
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions: Easy as 1, 2, 3!
Step 1: Cream Together the Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving that signature soft and tender texture. Use an electric mixer for best results, but a good old-fashioned hand mixer will work too!
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: Add Chocolate Chips (Optional):
If you're making chocolate chip cookies, now's the time to gently fold in the chocolate chips.
Step 5: Scoop and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection:
Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them as oven temperatures 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. Once cool, enjoy these delicious homemade cookies!
Tips and Tricks for Baking Success
- Softened Butter is Key: Ensure your butter is truly softened – it should be easily spreadable but not melted. This will help create a smooth and creamy dough.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For thicker, chewier cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Baking Time Varies: Ovens can differ, so keep an eye on your cookies and adjust baking time as needed.
Variations: Get Creative in the Kitchen!
- Oatmeal Raisin: Add ½ cup of rolled oats and ½ cup of raisins to the dough.
- Peanut Butter: Stir in ½ cup of creamy peanut butter along with the eggs and vanilla.
- Snickerdoodle: Roll the cookie dough in cinnamon sugar before baking.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your cookies and additions. Consider using a nutritional calculator for a precise measurement. This recipe generally provides a moderately caloric and delicious treat.
This homemade Pepperidge Farm-style cookie recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes achievable through homemade cooking, offering easy recipes and healthy meals without compromising on taste. Enjoy baking!