Baking chocolate chip cookies in the oven is a delightful and straightforward process. Here's a classic recipe to guide you through the steps:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar (preferably light brown)
- 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 chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure that the oven is fully preheated before placing the cookies in to ensure even baking.
Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or a stand mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed or by hand until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can lead to tough cookies.
Add the chocolate chips: Fold in the chocolate chips using a spatula or wooden spoon until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Form the cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough into rounded balls, approximately 1-2 tablespoons each. Space them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, leaving enough room for the cookies to spread during baking.
Bake the cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The center of the cookies may appear slightly undercooked, but they will continue to set as they cool.
Cool and enjoy: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, serve and enjoy your freshly baked chocolate chip cookies!
Keep in mind that baking times may vary depending on your oven and the size of the cookies, so it's a good idea to check them a minute or two before the recommended baking time to ensure they don't overbake. Happy baking!