Craving warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies but don't want a whole batch? This recipe is your answer! Perfect for satisfying those late-night cravings or for a smaller household, this small batch recipe delivers all the deliciousness of a classic chocolate chip cookie without the leftovers (though, let's be honest, leftovers are pretty great too!). These easy recipes are also perfect for beginner bakers, and the entire process is quick, making it ideal for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious and comforting treat.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step ensures easy cleanup and perfectly baked cookies.
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Cream Together: In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. A hand mixer or even a good old-fashioned whisk will work wonders here.
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Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the vanilla extract and egg until well combined. Make sure everything is thoroughly mixed for even cookie texture.
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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! Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
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Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in the chocolate chips. This is the fun part! Feel free to use any type of chocolate chips you prefer – milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even a mix!
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Scoop & Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft. Keep a close eye on them as oven temperatures can vary.
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Cool & Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Resist the urge to eat them while they're still warm… though it's incredibly tempting!
Tips for the Best Small Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies:
- Softened Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is truly softened – this will help create a smooth and creamy dough. Don't melt it!
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For thicker, chewier cookies, chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking. This step is particularly helpful for those who prefer less spread during baking.
- Baking Time Varies: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies and adjust the baking time as needed.
Variations:
- Nuts: Add 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or macadamia nuts to the dough for added texture and flavor.
- Different Chocolate: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips or even chopped chocolate bars.
- Spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg adds a warm and comforting touch.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 2g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Enjoy these quick dinner ideas or simply a delightful homemade treat! These delicious dishes are perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight snacks to a more celebratory dessert. This small batch recipe is easily adaptable to your personal preferences, making it the best recipe for those who value both convenience and deliciousness.