Soft Cookies
Are you craving a sweet, chewy treat that brings comfort and joy? Look no further than soft cookies! These delightful confections are known for their tender texture and rich flavors. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe guarantees a batch of cookies that will disappear in no time. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the step-by-step process to create these irresistible 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
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 24 soft cookies. The preparation time is approximately 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
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Sugars: 10g
– Protein: 2g
(Note: Values may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips gently.
- Using a cookie scoop, drop dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Additionally, use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free alternative. Dark chocolate chips can replace regular chocolate chips for a rich flavor.
Serving and Pairings
These soft cookies are perfect on their own or paired with a glass of cold milk. They also make a delightful addition to ice cream sandwiches or can be served alongside coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a warm oven for a few minutes. Soft cookies can also be frozen for up to three months; simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies.
- Not chilling the dough may lead to spreading during baking.
- Using cold butter instead of softened can affect the texture.
- Baking at too high a temperature can cause cookies to burn.
- Measuring flour inaccurately can alter the dough consistency.
Helpful Tips
- For extra softness, underbake the cookies slightly.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
- Experiment with different mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit.
- Let the cookies cool completely for the best texture.
FAQs
What makes cookies soft?
The key to soft cookies is using a higher ratio of fat to flour and underbaking them slightly. This keeps them moist and chewy.
Can I use brown sugar only?
Yes, using only brown sugar will yield softer cookies due to its moisture content, but you may need to adjust the quantity.
How do I know when my cookies are done?
Cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden, and the centers look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.
Can I add nuts to my soft cookies?
Absolutely! Chopped nuts can add a lovely crunch and flavor to your cookies. Be sure to fold them in gently.
How should I store soft cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag.
Conclusion
Soft cookies are a delightful treat that everyone loves. With their chewy texture and rich flavor, they are sure to impress family and friends. Follow the steps in this recipe, and you’ll have a batch of irresistible cookies that are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your baking adventure!
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 bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips gently.
- Using a cookie scoop, drop dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.