Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies

Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies are a beloved treat enjoyed by people of all ages. With their irresistible combination of buttery dough and rich chocolate morsels, these cookies are a timeless favorite. Biting into a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie is a delight, as the warm, gooey chocolate melts in your mouth and the cookie provides a satisfying crunch.

The aroma of baking cookies wafting through the kitchen is enough to bring a smile to anyone’s face. Whether you’re baking a batch for a special occasion, a family gathering, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, these classic chocolate chip cookies are sure to be a hit.

These cookies can be enjoyed on their own, with a glass of milk, or alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea. They are also versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences by adding nuts, oats, or other mix-ins to the dough. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, these classic chocolate chip cookies are sure to bring joy and comfort with every bite.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips
• 1 cup lightly toasted, coarsely chopped pecans (optional)
• 1 tbsp cornflour
• 1 1/4 cups plain flour
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Cream the butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar together until well combined. Use an electric mixer or mix by hand with a wooden spoon. Beat in the egg and the vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. In a separate bowl, sift the flour with the cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. This helps to remove any lumps and ensures even mixing. Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and stir until everything is well blended and a dough forms.
3. Stir in the chocolate chips and pecans, if using. Use a spatula or spoon to evenly distribute the chocolate chips and nuts throughout the dough. This will add extra flavor and texture to the cookies.
4. Use a small ice cream scoop or a tablespoon to scoop spoonfuls of dough (about 2 tablespoons) and shape them into balls. Place the dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking tray or a plate. Chill the scooped cookies in the refrigerator for at least an hour. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough balls for baking later. This chilling step helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
5. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Arrange the chilled or thawed cookies on parchment-lined baking trays, leaving about 3 inches of space between each cookie. This allows room for the cookies to spread as they bake.
6. Bake the cookies for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges. The centers may still look slightly soft, but they will firm up as the cookies cool. Avoid over-baking to maintain a soft and chewy texture.
7. Remove the baking trays from the oven and let the cookies cool on the trays for a few minutes. This allows them to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the cookies once they have cooled or store them in an airtight container for later.

NOTE:

• If baking cookie dough that has been frozen, arrange the frozen cookies on the baking tray and let them thaw for 20 minutes at room temperature before baking as above.