There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies wafting through your home. They are perfect for grabbing a snack, sharing with friends, or satisfying a sweet tooth. The combination of warm, gooey chocolate and soft, buttery cookie is a classic dessert loved by many. While there are many recipes available, our method focuses on creating cookies that are rich, chewy, and have a slight crunch on the edges.

With a few simple ingredients, you can whip up the best chocolate chip cookies in no time. Plus, the added touch of brown butter gives these cookies a depth of flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a complete novice, this recipe is easy to follow and yields delightful results every time.

Why Make This Recipe

Making chocolate chip cookies from scratch is simple and enjoyable. They are perfect for parties, gifts, or a cozy night in. This recipe stands out because it uses brown butter, which adds a nutty flavor that elevates traditional cookies. You’ll love the chewy texture and the generous amount of chocolate chips. These cookies are not just a treat; they also bring back warm memories of baking with loved ones. Try making them to experience the joy and satisfaction of homemade goodies.

How to Make The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ingredients

3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter
1 cup (200 g) packed light brown sugar
1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
1 large egg + 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1 3/4 cup (220 g) all-purpose flour
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt + more flaky sea salt for sprinkling
1 1/2 cups (255 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips or roughly chopped chocolate

Directions

Place the butter in a small saucepan and set over medium-low heat. This low heat will help the butter brown evenly. Stir the butter every 10-15 seconds with a silicone spatula. First, the butter will melt and foam, then small bubbles will form. After about 5 to 7 minutes, the butter will turn golden brown, and you will see some small brown bits forming. This means it is ready. Remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly in the pan.
In a large mixing bowl, blend the cooled brown butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using a silicone spatula. Next, add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly.
Then, add the flour, baking soda, and salt. Fold these ingredients together until no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix—the dough should be soft but not sticky.
Gently fold in the chocolate chips. Cover the bowl and chill the dough in the fridge for at least one hour or overnight.
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Remove the dough from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes until it’s easier to scoop.
Using a 1 ½ ounce cookie scoop, place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
Bake the cookies for 12 to 13 minutes, until they are puffy and lightly golden around the edges. If you like, sprinkle them with flaky sea salt as soon as they come out of the oven. Let them cool for a moment on the baking sheet before serving.

How to Serve The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies

Serve these cookies warm with a glass of milk for a classic treat. They also go well with coffee or tea. For a fun twist, add a scoop of ice cream between two cookies for an ice cream sandwich.

How to Store The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies

To keep the cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they can last for up to three months.

Tips to Make The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies

Make sure your butter is browned but not burned for the best flavor.
Chilling the dough helps the flavors meld and improves the cookie’s final texture.
Don’t skip the flaky sea salt on top; it enhances the flavor beautifully.

Variations

Try using dark chocolate chips or milk chocolate chips for a different taste.
Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, spicy flavor.

FAQs

What is the secret to chewy chocolate chip cookies?

Using brown butter and chilling the dough are key factors that create a chewy texture.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can be used, using butter will give the cookies a richer flavor.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough. Just scoop it into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be puffed and golden around the edges with a soft center when done. They will continue to cook after being removed from the oven.

About the Author — Linda Dawson
Linda shares simple, family-friendly desserts with a playful twist — mostly cakes and cookies you can bake on busy days.
👉 Meet Linda and see her favorite recipes