Craving that warm, gooey, chocolatey goodness of a Toll House cookie but don't want a whole batch? We hear you! This recipe cuts the classic Toll House cookie recipe in half, delivering all the deliciousness without the overwhelming quantity. Perfect for a quick treat, a small gathering, or simply satisfying that sudden craving without the commitment of a full baking sheet. This recipe is a great example of easy recipes and healthy meals if you use quality ingredients.
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:
Step 1: Prep the Butter and Sugars
Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect cookie texture. Use an electric mixer for best results; it makes this quick dinner idea even quicker!
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Step 4: Gentle Incorporation
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.
Step 5: Chocolate Chip Infusion
Stir in the chocolate chips. Feel free to get creative here! Add other goodies like chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or white chocolate chips for a personalized touch.
Step 6: Baking Time
Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft.
Step 7: Cooling and Enjoyment
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm, or let them cool completely for a crisper texture.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Cookies:
- Softened Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is truly softened, not melted. This ensures proper creaming and a better texture.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Baking Time Varies: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep a close eye on your cookies. Start checking for doneness around 9 minutes.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For thicker cookies with a chewier texture, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Variations:
- Nutty Delight: Add 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough.
- Peanut Butter Power: Substitute 1/4 cup of the butter with peanut butter for a delicious twist.
- Salted Caramel Swirl: Add a swirl of salted caramel sauce to the dough before baking.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
Calories: Around 150-200 (depending on ingredients and size)
This recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and best recipes, offering a simple yet satisfying treat perfect for any occasion. It's a great example of homemade cooking at its finest, proving that sometimes, less is more!