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Ingredients & Why They Work
Wet Ingredients:
3 large eggs: Add structure and richness to the cookies, helping them stay moist.
1 cup granulated sugar: Creates sweetness and crisp edges.
1 cup packed brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like flavor and keeps cookies soft.
1 ½ cups (3 sticks) butter, softened: The backbone of flavor and texture. Ensure the butter is soft but not melted for perfect creaming.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors in the cookie dough.
Dry Ingredients:
3 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure. Measure accurately by spooning and leveling to avoid dense cookies.
2 teaspoons baking soda: Gives the cookies their slight lift and airy texture.
¾ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
Add-Ins:
4 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: For that perfect gooey chocolate in every bite. Feel free to use dark chocolate or milk chocolate if preferred.
Walnuts (optional): Add crunch and nutty flavor. Substitute with pecans, almonds, or omit entirely if you prefer nut-free cookies.
Step-by-Step Baking Directions
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or use nonstick silicone mats for even baking.
Butter Prep: Ensure the butter is soft (leave it at room temperature for 1-2 hours before starting). If you’re short on time, microwave the butter for 10-15 seconds, but don’t melt it.
Step 2: Cream the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
Use an electric mixer to beat on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color (about 2-3 minutes). This step ensures air is incorporated into the dough for soft cookies.
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
Mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients in 3 additions. Mix on low speed until just combined after each addition. Overmixing can make cookies dense.
Step 4: Add the Good Stuff
Gently fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts (if using) with a spatula. Ensure even distribution for consistent bites of deliciousness.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon to form dough balls. Roll them lightly in your hands for a neater appearance.
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. The edges should be golden brown, but the centers will look slightly underdone—this is key for soft cookies!
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