Tired of baking cookies one by one? Craving a delicious treat without the endless scooping and baking time? Then you’ve come to the right place! Sheet pan cookies are the answer to your baking prayers. This easy recipe delivers perfectly crisp edges, chewy centers, and a whole lot of deliciousness – all on a single baking sheet! Get ready for a baking experience that's quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. These are perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or satisfying that sudden sweet craving. It’s homemade cooking at its most effortless best!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (or your favorite mix-ins!)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze! Soften your butter to room temperature for easy mixing. Gather all your ingredients before you start to ensure a smooth baking process.
Step 2: Cream Together 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 you can certainly do it by hand if you prefer a good arm workout!
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: 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!
Step 5: Stir in Chocolate Chips (or Mix-ins)
Fold in your favorite chocolate chips, or get creative with other mix-ins like nuts, dried fruit, or sprinkles.
Step 6: Spread the Dough
Spread the cookie dough evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. You can use a spatula or your hands (clean hands, of course!). Aim for a relatively even thickness, about ½ inch.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning. Every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on them!
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Let the sheet pan cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before cutting into squares. This prevents them from crumbling.
Tips for Baking the Best Sheet Pan Cookies:
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Use parchment paper: This makes cleanup super easy and prevents sticking.
- Let the cookies cool completely: This ensures they hold their shape and don't crumble.
- Adjust baking time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cookies and adjust the baking time as needed.
Variations:
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip: Add ½ cup peanut butter to the wet ingredients.
- Oatmeal Raisin: Add 1 cup rolled oats and ½ cup raisins to the dry ingredients.
- M&M's Cookie: Swap chocolate chips for your favorite M&M's candies. The possibilities are endless!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion size. Use a nutrition calculator online for a more precise estimate based on your specific recipe variations. However, generally expect sheet pan cookies to be moderately high in calories, fat, and sugar.
This recipe is a great example of easy recipes and healthy meal options when enjoyed in moderation. It's a fantastic quick dinner idea addition after a light meal. Enjoy your delicious and easy homemade cookies!