The Ultimate Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe is a classic favorite that has been shared and enjoyed by millions of families and friends across the world. Crispy on the outside, yet soft and gooey on the inside, these cookies are perfect for any occasion and will satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth. Read on to discover the ingredients and step-by-step guide to create these delightful cookies and delve into the history and curiosities of this famous dessert.
Ingredients:
Creating the perfect Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookie requires a balance of delicious ingredients. Here’s everything you’ll need for about 60 cookies:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light-brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups semisweet and/or milk chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Directions:
With your ingredients gathered, follow these simple steps to create your Ultimate Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda; set aside.
- In a large bowl, use a mixer to combine the butter with both sugars; beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the salt, vanilla, and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing it until fully combined. Stir in the chocolate chips.
- Drop heaping tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets, about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center. Cool on the baking sheets for about 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
A Brief History and Curiosities:
The history of the Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookie dates back to 1938 when it was created by Ruth Wakefield at the Toll House Inn in Whitman, Massachusetts. Ruth was known for her delicious home-cooked meals and desserts, but this particular creation quickly garnered fame as the first-ever chocolate chip cookie.
Legend has it that Ruth was preparing a batch of her traditional Butter Drop Do cookies and realized she was out of baker’s chocolate. Instead, she substituted a chopped-up Nestlé semi-sweet chocolate bar, expecting the pieces to melt and create a chocolate cookie. To her surprise, the chocolate didn’t blend with the dough and thus, the iconic chocolate chip cookie was born.
As the cookies gained popularity, Nestlé entered into an agreement with Ruth, allowing them to use her recipe on their packaging. In return, Ruth received a lifetime supply of chocolate. Over the years, chocolate chip cookies have flourished as a staple dessert in American culture. From the original Nestlé Toll House version to countless unique variations, these cookies continue to bring smiles and create cherished memories in kitchens worldwide.
