Homemade chocolate chip cookies are a timeless classic and an all-time favorite for many. These delightful little morsels are perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth, and they hold a special place in the hearts of both children and adults alike. In this article, we will walk you through a tried and tested recipe that yields flawlessly chewy and scrumptious cookies every time. Additionally, we will delve into the fascinating history and curiosities surrounding this beloved treat. So put on your apron, fire up the oven, and let’s get started!
Ingredients
To make these delectable homemade chocolate chip cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Gather all of your ingredients, and let’s move on to the all-important step-by-step process of creating this perfect recipe for chewy goodness!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your homemade chocolate chip cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- 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.
- With a spatula, gently fold in the 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Using your hands, a cookie scoop, or a tablespoon, form the cookie dough into balls about the size of a walnut. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared lined baking sheets.
- Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking process for even baking. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Now that your irresistible homemade chocolate chip cookies are ready, it’s time to learn more about their fascinating history.
The History and Curiosities Behind the Chocolate Chip Cookie
The invention of the chocolate chip cookie can be traced back to 1938 when Ruth Wakefield, the owner of the Toll House Inn in Whitman, Massachusetts, decided to create a new type of cookie by adding chopped semi-sweet chocolate to her butter cookie dough. The result was an instant hit, becoming a firm favorite among her inn’s guests.
Nestlé eventually approached Ruth for permission to print her recipe on their chocolate bar packaging in exchange for a lifetime supply of free chocolate. This partnership led to the creation of the first commercially available chocolate chips, making it easier for bakers worldwide to replicate Ruth’s fabulous cookies.
Over time, numerous variations of the recipe have emerged, but the classic chocolate chip cookie endures. Today, these cookies have transcended borders, becoming a favorite treat in countries all around the world. So, whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, enjoying a warm, gooey homemade chocolate chip cookie is a simple pleasure that connects us all to a delightful history of culinary innovation.