Soft Cookies
Indulge in the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked soft cookies. These delightful treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, whether enjoyed with a glass of milk or served at a gathering. Soft cookies offer a chewy texture and rich flavor that make them irresistible. Follow this easy recipe to create your own batch of these delectable cookies that will leave everyone asking for more!
Ingredients
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups chocolate chips
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 24 soft cookies. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 10-12 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately:
– Calories: 150
– Total Fat: 7g
– Saturated Fat: 4g
– Cholesterol: 20mg
– Sodium: 90mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 22g
– Sugars: 10g
– Protein: 2g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a larger bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy.
4. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough.
7. Use a cookie scoop to drop dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
10. Enjoy your soft cookies warm or at room temperature!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute coconut oil for butter for a dairy-free option. Additionally, try using other types of chocolate, like white chocolate or butterscotch chips, to customize the flavor.
Serving and Pairings
These soft cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk, coffee, or tea. They can also be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Storage and Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy their fresh-baked taste again.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using cold butter can lead to dense cookies; always use softened butter.
- Overmixing the dough can make cookies tough; mix just until combined.
- Not measuring flour accurately can affect texture; spoon and level it.
- Skipping the cooling time on the baking sheet can cause cookies to break.
- Not preheating the oven can result in uneven baking.
Helpful Tips
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
- Experiment with mix-ins like nuts or dried fruits.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
- For a festive touch, add sprinkles or colored chocolate chips.
FAQs
What makes soft cookies different from chewy cookies?
Soft cookies are typically lighter and have a tender texture, whereas chewy cookies have a denser, firmer bite. The differences often come from the ratios of ingredients used.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the cookies may be denser. Consider using a blend for a lighter texture.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.
Can I add nuts to my soft cookies?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or macadamia nuts can enhance flavor and texture, making your cookies even more delicious.
How should I store my soft cookies?
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag.
Conclusion
Soft cookies are a timeless treat that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. Their delightful texture and rich flavor make them a favorite for kids and adults alike. With this easy recipe, you can whip up a batch in no time and enjoy them fresh from the oven or as a sweet surprise later. Happy baking!
Soft Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a larger bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy.
- Add the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough.
- Use a cookie scoop to drop dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Enjoy your soft cookies warm or at room temperature!
