These Bills Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect treat, featuring gooey chocolate chips and a soft, chewy texture. They’re simply irresistible!
When I bake these, the sweet smell fills the house and everyone comes running! I love enjoying them warm right out of the oven with a glass of milk—pure happiness! 🥛🍪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of your cookies. If you need a gluten-free option, you can use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend, which usually works nicely.
Unsalted Butter: Softened butter creates a nice texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can use margarine or coconut oil. Just keep in mind that butter gives a richer flavor.
Granulated and Brown Sugar: Together, these sugars help create the perfect sweetness and chewy texture. If you need a lower-sugar version, consider reducing the amount of sugar or using a sugar substitute like coconut sugar.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet is traditional, but feel free to mix it up! Dark chocolate or even white chocolate chips can add a fun twist. You could also chop up a chocolate bar for a variety of textures.
How Do I Ensure My Cookies Are Soft and Chewy?
Getting that perfect soft and chewy cookie takes a few key tips. Firstly, don’t over-mix your dough once you add the flour. This can make them tough. Here’s a simple way to achieve that perfect texture:
- Measure flour correctly by spooning it into your measuring cup, then leveling off. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
- Don’t overbake! Since they’ll continue to cook a bit after you take them out of the oven, look for just golden edges and a still-soft center.
- Letting the dough chill for a bit in the fridge can help them hold their shape while baking and enhance the flavor.
Enjoy these tips, and happy baking! There’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh cookies filling your home. 🍪
Bills Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Flaky sea salt, for topping (optional)
Time Estimate:
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep and 9 to 11 minutes for baking. So, in total, you’re looking at approximately 30 minutes to have these delicious cookies ready to enjoy!
Easy Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent your cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This helps ensure even distribution of the baking soda and salt. Once mixed, set the bowl aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar. You want to mix until it looks creamy and well combined. Add in the vanilla extract for that lovely flavor.
4. Add the Eggs:
Now, it’s time to add the eggs. Add them in one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps to keep the mixture fluffy and light!
5. Combine the Mixtures:
Slowly add your dry flour mixture to the butter mixture, beating gently until everything is well incorporated. You don’t want to overmix it—just until there are no streaks of flour left.
6. Add Chocolate Chips:
Gently stir in the chocolate chips. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This is where the magic happens!
7. Scoop the Dough:
Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This way they have room to spread while baking.
8. Salt It Up (Optional):
If you like a sweet-salty combo, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each mound of dough.
9. Bake the Cookies:
Pop the trays into the preheated oven and bake for 9 to 11 minutes. You want the edges to be golden brown while the centers still look soft. This is key for that chewy texture!
10. Cool and Enjoy:
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 2 minutes. Then, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm or store in an airtight container to keep them soft!
Have Fun!
These cookies are a delightful treat with a chewy texture and rich buttery flavor, perfectly balanced by melty chocolate chips. Enjoy every delicious bite! 🍪
Can I Use Margarine Instead of Butter?
Yes, you can use margarine as a substitute for unsalted butter if needed. Just make sure it’s softened to the same consistency to achieve the best texture in your cookies.
How Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?
You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Be sure to check the package instructions as different blends may require slight adjustments to the liquid content.
What Should I Do If My Dough Is Too Sticky?
If your cookie dough feels too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps firm it up, making it easier to scoop and shape without the dough sticking to your hands.
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, you can also freeze them, and they should keep well for about 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
