Crispy and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that perfectly balances crispy edges with a soft, chewy center, then you’ve come to the right place! These Crispy and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies are a cherished family recipe that I know you’ll love just as much as I do. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cheerful family gathering, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house that makes everything feel just a bit cozier.

This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to follow. It’s perfect for baking with kids or whipping up when you need a sweet treat in no time. Plus, they make fantastic gifts for friends and neighbors!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With just 15 minutes of prep, you can have these cookies in the oven before you know it!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves chocolate chip cookies! They’re always a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.
• Deliciously Versatile: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit for a personal touch.
• Perfect Texture: The combination of crispy edges and chewy centers creates an irresistible texture that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Each one plays an important role in creating those delightful crispy and chewy chocolate chip cookies we all adore.

• 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (see note; 3 cups = 375g)
• 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
• 3/4 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 2 sticks Unsalted Butter, softened to room temperature (see note; 2 sticks = 1 cup or 16 tablespoons)
• 1 cup Light Brown Sugar, packed (1 cup = 200g)
• 1 cup Granulated (White) Sugar (1 cup = 200g)
• 2 large Eggs
• 2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract
• 2 1/2 cups Semisweet Chocolate Chips
• 1 teaspoon Flaked Sea Salt (totally optional, but try it if you like a salty finish on your sweets)

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to customize it according to your taste preferences! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Use Different Chips: Swap out semisweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate or even white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
• Incorporate Oats: For a heartier cookie, mix in rolled oats—just reduce the flour slightly.
• Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor twist.

How to Make Crispy and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial because it ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour. A well-mixed dry mixture helps achieve consistent texture in every cookie!

Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Sugars

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter along with both sugars on medium-high until light and creamy—about three minutes. This process introduces air into the mixture, resulting in that lovely fluffy texture we want in our cookies.

Step 3: Mix in Eggs and Vanilla

Add in the eggs and vanilla extract next. Mix on low speed until completely combined. Scraping down the bowl as needed helps ensure that all ingredients blend together nicely.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to add your flour mixture all at once! Mix on low until just combined—this means stopping as soon as there are no dry spots left. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so be gentle!

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in those delicious chocolate chips on low speed until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This is where all that chocolatey goodness comes from!

Step 6: Chill Dough

Transfer your mixing bowl to the refrigerator for about twenty minutes while your oven heats up. Chilling the dough is key—it helps create those soft centers we love!

Step 7: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F / 177°C during this chilling time so it’s hot and ready when you’re done preparing the dough.

Step 8: Prepare Baking Sheet

Lightly grease a sheet pan or line it with parchment paper or a Silpat baking mat. This will prevent sticking and help your cookies bake evenly.

Step 9: Scoop Dough Portions

Using a tablespoon measuring spoon (make those “heaping” tablespoons!), scoop out even portions of cold cookie dough onto your prepared sheet pan. Be sure they’re about the size of golf balls—this ensures they spread properly during baking.

Step 10: Bake Your Cookies

Arrange cookie dough balls on the sheet pan with enough space between them so they can spread out while baking! Bake until the edges turn golden brown but centers remain pale and soft—around nine to twelve minutes should do.

Step 11: Tap for Crinkling

Once you take them out of the oven, tap the sheet pan firmly on your kitchen counter several times. This deflates them slightly which leads to those charming crinkled edges!

Step 12: Optional Sea Salt Sprinkle

If you’d like that extra touch of flavor, sprinkle flaked sea salt over each cookie while they’re still warm.

Step 13: Cooling Time

Let them cool on the sheet pan for five minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. They may seem fragile at first but will firm up nicely as they cool down.

Step 14: Storing

Finally, store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days—if they last that long!

Enjoy every bite of these crispy and chewy chocolate chip cookies!

Pro Tips for Making Crispy and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Baking the perfect cookie is a delightful journey, and these tips will help you achieve the ideal balance of crispiness and chewiness.

• Use room temperature butter: Softened butter mixes more easily with sugars, leading to a light and fluffy dough, which is crucial for achieving that perfect texture.
• Chill the dough: Refrigerating your cookie dough before baking not only enhances the flavors but also prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven, helping maintain that chewy center.
• Don’t overmix: Once you add the flour mixture to your wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of tender, chewy ones.
• Watch your bake time: Every oven is different! Keep a close eye on your cookies as they bake; take them out when they’re lightly golden around the edges and still soft in the center for that perfect chewy texture.
• Tap the pan after baking: Tapping the pan on the counter deflates the cookies slightly, giving them beautiful crinkled edges and ensuring a denser center.

How to Serve Crispy and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

These crispy and chewy chocolate chip cookies are not only delicious but also versatile in presentation. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them at home, there are plenty of creative ways to enhance your cookie experience.

Garnishes

• Flaked sea salt: A sprinkle adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cookie, enhancing its flavor profile.
• Chocolate drizzle: Melt some semisweet chocolate and drizzle it over cooled cookies for an elegant touch that also intensifies chocolate flavor.
• Chopped nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top can add crunch and depth to each bite.

Side Dishes

• Milk: A classic pairing! The creamy richness of milk complements the sweetness of cookies beautifully.
• Ice cream: Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream for an indulgent dessert that brings together warm and cold textures.
• Fresh fruit: Slices of strawberries or bananas provide a refreshing contrast to rich chocolate flavors while adding color to your plate.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea can elevate your cookie enjoyment, balancing sweetness with its bitter notes.

With these serving ideas and pro tips, you’re all set to impress friends and family with your delicious crispy and chewy chocolate chip cookies. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These crispy and chewy chocolate chip cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week or even for special occasions. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat them for the best taste.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• To keep them fresh longer, consider layering parchment paper between the cookies to prevent them from sticking together.

Freezing

• Allow the baked cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for 5-7 minutes until just warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave a single cookie for about 10-15 seconds for a quick treat!

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help you as you embark on your cookie-baking journey!

Can I make these Crispy and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

How do I achieve the perfect balance of crispy and chewy in my Crispy and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies?

The secret lies in using cold dough and not overbaking. Chilling your dough before baking helps maintain that chewy center while achieving crispy edges.

What can I substitute if I don’t have unsalted butter?

You can use a vegan butter alternative or coconut oil in equal amounts to maintain the richness without compromising flavor.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to fold in your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or even different types of chocolate chips to customize your cookies!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these crispy and chewy chocolate chip cookies! They bring warmth and comfort to any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or sharing with friends. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your cookie adventures with me! Happy baking!