Soft Cookies
Indulge in the delightful world of soft cookies, where each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. These cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, making them a favorite for cookie lovers everywhere. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or a few days later, their soft and chewy nature ensures a delightful experience. Let’s dive into the recipe that will elevate your baking game!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 24 soft cookies. Preparation time is around 15 minutes, with an additional 10-12 minutes for baking.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately:
– Calories: 150
– Total Fat: 7g
– Saturated Fat: 4g
– Carbohydrates: 22g
– Sugars: 12g
– Protein: 2g
This nutritional information is calculated for one cookie.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips gently to avoid breaking them.
- Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Additionally, try using dark chocolate chips or a mix of nuts for added texture and flavor.
Serving and Pairings
These soft cookies are perfect on their own but can also be paired with a glass of milk, coffee, or even ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store soft cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds to restore their softness.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies.
- Not using room temperature butter will affect texture.
- Skipping the chilling step can result in spreading.
- Using expired baking soda will prevent proper rising.
- Baking for too long will dry out the cookies.
Helpful Tips
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes.
- Experiment with different mix-ins like dried fruit or nuts.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes for better flavor.
- Rotate baking sheets halfway through baking for even cooking.
FAQs
How do I keep my cookies soft?
To maintain softness, store cookies in an airtight container and add a slice of bread to absorb excess moisture, keeping them chewy.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used, but it may change the texture and flavor slightly, so choose a high-quality product for the best results.
What can I add to make my cookies more flavorful?
Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or use flavored extracts such as almond or hazelnut for a unique twist.
How long should I bake my cookies?
Bake your cookies for 10-12 minutes, but keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking. The edges should be lightly golden while the centers remain soft.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze cookie dough for up to three months. Portion it into balls, freeze, and then bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Conclusion
Soft cookies are a timeless treat that brings joy to any occasion. With their chewy texture and rich flavor, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy them fresh or saved for later, and share the love of baking with friends and family!
Soft Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips gently to avoid breaking them.
- Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
