These Bill’s Chocolate Chip Cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with yummy chocolate pieces. They’re a classic treat that everyone loves!
Baking these cookies always brings a smile to my face. The smell fills the house and makes it feel cozy. Plus, who can resist warm cookies straight from the oven? 🍪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Unsalted Butter: This is essential for flavor and a soft texture. You can use margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute if you want a dairy-free version.
Sugars: I love using both granulated and brown sugar. The brown sugar adds moisture and a slight caramel flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar.
Eggs: They bind the ingredients and add moisture. If you’re vegan, try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for each egg.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet is classic, but dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips work great too! For a nutty flavor, try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans.
How Can I Ensure My Cookies Are Soft and Chewy?
To get that perfect soft and chewy texture, avoid over-mixing the dough after adding the flour. Just mix until everything is combined. Also, don’t overbake them! Take them out when the edges are golden, but the centers look a bit underbaked. They’ll continue to set outside the oven.
- Chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking to help prevent spreading.
- Use a cookie scoop for even sizes, which helps them bake uniformly.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack; this helps them firm up.
Bill’s Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed light 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 or chunks
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 10 minutes to bake. Including cooling time, you can expect a total of about 30-40 minutes before you can enjoy these delicious cookies!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This will help prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Make the Cookie Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is creamy and light. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Next, add the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for that lovely flavor!
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that the baking soda is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which helps your cookies rise properly.
4. Mix the Ingredients Together:
Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix! Finally, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks. This makes the cookie dough rich and chocolatey!
5. Scoop and Bake:
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. Bake in your preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden but the centers still look soft and a bit underbaked.
6. Cool and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on each cookie immediately (if using). Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your homemade, soft, and chewy chocolate chip cookies just like Bill’s!
Can I Use Margarine Instead of Unsalted Butter?
Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for unsalted butter. However, it may alter the flavor and texture slightly. Make sure to select a stick margarine for the best results, as tub varieties often contain more water.
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store your leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can also freeze them! Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last up to 3 months.
Can I Add Nuts to the Cookie Dough?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans add a great crunch and flavor. Just mix in about 1 cup of your favorite nuts along with the chocolate chips.
What If the Dough Is Too Sticky?
If your cookie dough feels too sticky, you can add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Additionally, chilling the dough for 30 minutes in the refrigerator can help firm it up and make it easier to scoop.
