Nestlé’s chocolate chip cookies are the epitome of classic American baking. This beloved cookie recipe was first introduced by Ruth Wakefield in the 1930s and has been a household favorite ever since. The warm, gooey, and slightly crispy texture of these cookies makes them a go-to dessert for all ages. Whether you’re baking for a party, a school event, or just a cozy treat at home, these cookies never disappoint. The balance of buttery richness and sweet chocolate chips creates the perfect combination of flavors, making it no wonder why this recipe remains so popular today.
Ingredients
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2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1 cup packed brown sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 large eggs
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2 cups Nestlé semi-sweet chocolate chips
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1/2 teaspoon salt
Substitutions:
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Butter: For a dairy-free version, substitute with a plant-based butter.
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Flour: You can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free alternative.
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Chocolate chips: Use dark chocolate chips, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips for a twist on the classic.
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Eggs: Replace eggs with a flaxseed mixture for a vegan option.Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with both the granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer.
Step 4: Add Eggs & Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well incorporated.
Step 5: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make your cookies dense.
Step 6: Stir in Chocolate Chips
Fold in the chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Scoop Dough & Bake
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. Bake in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft.
Step 8: Cool & Serve
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth dough. Cold butter can lead to uneven texture in your cookies.
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Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix only until just incorporated. Overmixing can make your cookies tough.
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Chill the Dough (Optional): For slightly thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
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Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as every oven is different. Take them out when the edges are golden but the center still looks slightly underbaked. They will continue cooking on the baking sheet.
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Use Parchment Paper: This helps the cookies bake evenly and prevents sticking.
Variations and Customizations
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Add Nuts: Try adding chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy twist.
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Peanut Butter Version: Replace half of the butter with peanut butter for a nutty flavor.
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Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
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Dairy-Free Version: Swap butter for a dairy-free alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
Serving Suggestions
Nestlé’s chocolate chip cookies are delicious on their own, but here are a few ways to elevate your serving experience:
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With Ice Cream: Sandwich a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies for a decadent treat.
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With Milk: Serve your cookies with a glass of cold milk for the ultimate nostalgic experience.
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Hot Fudge: Drizzle warm fudge sauce over the cookies for an indulgent dessert.
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Coffee Pairing: These cookies also pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
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Calories: 200 per cookie
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Protein: 2g
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Carbohydrates: 30g
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Fat: 10g
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Sugar: 18g
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Fiber: 1g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I store leftover cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
2. Can I make these cookies without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute eggs with a flaxseed egg replacement (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water for each egg) or a commercial egg replacer.
3. Why are my cookies flat?
Flat cookies could be the result of melted butter, too much sugar, or overmixing the dough. Ensure the butter is at room temperature, measure ingredients carefully, and mix gently.
Closing Thoughts
Nestlé’s chocolate chip cookies are a true American classic that never goes out of style. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or simply for yourself, this recipe is sure to delight. It’s a versatile treat, perfect for any occasion, and with a few variations, you can make them just the way you like. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the sweet, warm, and gooey goodness of homemade chocolate chip cookies!
