Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies

These classic chocolate chip cookies combine a perfect balance of crisp edges and chewy centers. They are delicious served fresh or stored in an airtight container for up to a week. Adjust your bake time slightly if you prefer softer or crunchier cookies. Enjoy!

Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe

Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 2/3 cup butter, room temperature
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup lightly packed brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups semisweet and/or milk chocolate chips
– Optional: 1 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)

Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, salt and baking soda; set aside.
3. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the butter and both sugars until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add salt, vanilla extract, and eggs; beat until well combined.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture, beating on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing
6. Stir in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using) by hand with a spatula.

7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake until golden around the edges but still soft in the center, 10 to 12 minutes.
9. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Information (per cookie, based on approx. 36 cookies):
– Calories: 160 kcal
– Total Fat: 9 g
– Saturated Fat: 5 g
– Cholesterol: 25 mg
– Sodium: 100 mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 20 g
– Dietary Fiber: 1 g
– Sugars: 14 g
– Protein: 2 g