Few things bring us together like the smell of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. The Gold Medal Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe has been a trusted favorite in kitchens across the country for generations. Its perfect balance of crispy edges and chewy centers makes it a go-to treat for cookie lovers everywhere.
We love how this recipe uses simple ingredients to create a classic cookie that’s rich, buttery, and packed with melty chocolate chips. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just craving a sweet snack, these cookies always deliver. Let’s dive into the steps that make this recipe a timeless favorite and get ready to enjoy warm, irresistible cookies straight from the oven.
Ingredients
To bake the perfect Gold Medal Chocolate Chip Cookies, we start with precise ingredients that create the ideal balance of texture and flavor. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving those crispy edges and chewy centers we love.
Dry Ingredients
The dry ingredients form the cookie’s structure and texture. Using the right amount and type of flour and leavening agents ensures our cookies rise perfectly while maintaining that signature chewiness.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (measured accurately for dough consistency)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda (provides just the right lift)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (enhances flavor depth)
| Dry Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 1/4 cups | Structure and body |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon | Leavening for lightness |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Balances sweetness and flavor |
Wet Ingredients
Our wet ingredients contribute rich flavor, moisture, and tenderness to these classic cookies. Butter adds that buttery richness while eggs bind everything together.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened (for creamy texture and rich taste)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (for sweetness and slight crispiness)
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar (adds moisture and depth with its molasses notes)
- 2 large eggs (room temperature for better mixing)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (enhances the overall flavor profile)
| Wet Ingredient | Measurement | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (2 sticks), softened | Moisture, richness |
| Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup | Sweetness, texture |
| Brown sugar | 3/4 cup packed | Moisture, flavor complexity |
| Eggs | 2 large | Binder and structure |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons | Flavor enhancer |
Chocolate Chips and Add-Ins
No Gold Medal Chocolate Chip Cookie is complete without the melty, gooey chocolate chips. We use the classic semisweet chips for balance, but feel free to customize with your favorites.
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips (melts perfectly, delivers rich chocolate pockets)
- Optional add-ins: chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans (about 1 cup) for crunch and added flavor
“The melt-in-your-mouth combination of buttery dough and chocolate chips ensures each bite bursts with flavor.”
By carefully selecting these ingredients and following the exact measurements, we guarantee our cookies will turn out just right every time.
Equipment Needed
To achieve the perfect Gold Medal Chocolate Chip Cookie texture and flavor, having the right equipment is essential. Here is the list of essential tools we use to bake these cookies flawlessly:
- Mixing Bowls: We recommend using a large glass or stainless steel bowl for combining ingredients. These materials do not react with the ingredients and allow easy mixing.
- Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: An electric hand mixer or stand mixer with a paddle attachment ensures the butter and sugars cream together evenly for that rich texture.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is crucial. Use dry measuring cups for flour and sugar and liquid measuring cups for eggs and vanilla extract.
- Rubber or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of the bowl and folding in any optional ingredients like nuts or extra chocolate chips.
- Baking Sheets: Heavy-duty, rimmed baking sheets provide even heat distribution to achieve the classic crispy edges and chewy centers.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mats: Using parchment or mats prevents sticking and promotes even browning without greasing the pan.
- Cooling Racks: Wire racks allow the cookies to cool evenly on all sides, preventing sogginess.
- Cookie Scoop: To maintain consistent cookie size and baking time, a medium-sized cookie scoop is highly recommended.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine ingredients | Non-reactive material preferred |
| Electric or Stand Mixer | Cream butter and sugar | Paddle attachment optimal |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Measure precise quantities | Dry and liquid specific |
| Rubber/Silicone Spatula | Mix and fold ingredients | Flexible for thorough scraping |
| Baking Sheets | Bake cookies | Heavy-duty with rim |
| Parchment Paper/Silicone Mat | Prevent sticking | Ensures even browning |
| Cooling Racks | Cool cookies evenly | Wire racks preferred |
| Cookie Scoop | Portion dough consistently | Medium size for uniform cookies |
Using this equipment lineup will allow us to prepare and bake our Gold Medal Chocolate Chip Cookies with precision and ease, guaranteeing consistent, delicious results every time.
Prep Work
Before we dive into mixing and baking, it’s crucial to prepare thoroughly. Proper prep work sets the foundation for perfect Gold Medal Chocolate Chip Cookies every time.
Measuring Ingredients
Accurate measuring ensures consistent texture and flavor. Use the following guidelines when measuring each ingredient:
| Ingredient | Measurement Tip |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | Spoon into the measuring cup and level off with a knife. Avoid scooping directly to prevent packing. |
| Baking soda | Use a dry measuring spoon, leveling it off for precision. |
| Salt | Measure carefully with a standard measuring spoon. |
| Butter | Measure by weight or use the stick markings for accuracy. Use room temperature unsalted butter for better mixing. |
| Granulated sugar & brown sugar | Spoon into cups and level off for correct amounts. Lightly pack brown sugar to create slight density. |
| Eggs | Use large eggs at room temperature for even incorporation. |
| Vanilla extract | Measure with a teaspoon for consistent flavor intensity. |
| Semisweet chocolate chips | Use a cup measure and level for the chocolaty gooeyness signature to these cookies. |
Preparing Baking Sheets
To achieve even baking and perfect edges, preparation of baking sheets is essential:
- Line heavy-duty baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and promote even heat distribution.
- Avoid greasing baking sheets as it can cause cookies to spread too much.
- Use a cookie scoop to portion dough evenly, placing scoops about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading without merging.
- Let baking sheets cool completely between batches to maintain consistent cookie texture and bake times.
With all ingredients measured precisely and baking sheets prepped correctly, we set the stage for baking those iconic Gold Medal Chocolate Chip Cookies that boast the perfect balance of crispy edges and chewy centers.
Instructions
Let’s walk through the steps to create the iconic Gold Medal Chocolate Chip Cookie dough with precision and care for the perfect bake.
Mixing the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if you plan to bake immediately after mixing.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, continuing to beat and incorporating each egg fully before adding the next.
- Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the rich flavor profile.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until thoroughly combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed. Mix just until the flour disappears—careful not to overmix for a tender texture.
- Scrape down the bowl sides with a rubber spatula to ensure all ingredients meld evenly.
Adding Chocolate Chips
- Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips with a spatula or spoon to evenly distribute the gooey pockets throughout the dough.
- Optional: Fold in your choice of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and depth.
- Avoid stirring too aggressively to keep the dough light and maintain chocolate chip integrity.
Chilling the Dough (If Applicable)
| Step | Purpose | Recommended Time |
|---|---|---|
| Chill the dough | Solidify fats for better texture | 1 to 2 hours or overnight |
| Benefits | Enhances flavor and prevents spreading | Results in thicker cookies |
- We recommend chilling the dough if you have the time. Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the butter solidify. This step intensifies the buttery flavor and yields thicker, chewier cookies.
- If chilling overnight, remove the dough 15 minutes before baking to soften slightly for better scooping.
Following these step-by-step instructions allows us to consistently bake the perfect Gold Medal Chocolate Chip Cookies with crisp edges, chewy centers, and rich melty chocolate that everyone loves.
Directions for Baking
To achieve the perfect Gold Medal Chocolate Chip Cookies, precise baking directions are essential. We’ll guide you through the ideal oven settings and share expert tips to ensure every cookie comes out with crispy edges and a chewy center.
Oven Temperature and Time
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) for the optimal baking environment. This temperature creates that signature balance between crispy and chewy.
- Bake time: 9 to 11 minutes
- Place the prepared cookie dough on baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- Arrange dough balls about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading without merging.
- Check cookies at 9 minutes to assess browning. Edges should be golden while the centers remain slightly soft.
- Remove cookies from the oven when edges are firm but centers look just set — they will continue to bake on the hot baking sheet once out of the oven.
| Oven Temperature | Baking Time | Cookie Texture |
|---|---|---|
| 375°F (190°C) | 9 to 11 mins | Golden edges, chewy center |
Tips for Perfectly Baked Cookies
To guarantee every batch of our Gold Medal Chocolate Chip Cookies turns out flawless, follow these expert strategies:
- Dough Chill: After mixing, chill the dough for 1 to 2 hours or overnight. Cold dough slows spreading resulting in thicker, chewier cookies with enhanced flavor.
- Consistent Scooping: Use a cookie scoop to portion dough uniformly. This ensures even baking and consistent cookie sizes.
- Avoid Overbaking: Remove cookies once edges are set. Centers should appear slightly underbaked to maintain that melty, soft texture.
- Rotate Baking Sheets: Halfway through baking, rotate sheets 180 degrees for even heat exposure and browning.
- Cooling: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 to 3 minutes. This allows them to firm up before transferring to a cooling rack, preventing breakage.
“The secret to the perfect cookie lies not just in the ingredients but in how carefully we bake them—precision at every step makes all the difference.”
By mastering these Directions for Baking, we ensure our Gold Medal Chocolate Chip Cookies come out every time as a delightful combination of crunch, chew, and gooey chocolate bliss.
Cooling and Storage
Once our Gold Medal Chocolate Chip Cookies come out of the oven, proper cooling and storage are essential to maintain their signature crispy edges and chewy centers.
Cooling
- Initial Rest on Baking Sheet: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This resting period helps the cookies set up so they won’t break apart when moved.
- Transfer to Cooling Rack: Gently transfer cookies to a wire cooling rack. This allows air to circulate around the cookies, preventing sogginess on the bottom and preserving the perfect texture.
- Complete Cooling Time: Let the cookies cool completely—approximately 20 to 30 minutes. They may feel soft initially but will firm up as they cool, achieving the ideal balance of tenderness and crunch.
Storage
Proper storage keeps our cookies fresh and delicious for days or even weeks.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Storage Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Airtight container or tin | Up to 5 days | Place a slice of bread inside to maintain moisture balance. |
| Refrigerator | Airtight container | Up to 2 weeks | Bring cookies to room temperature before serving for best flavor. |
| Freezer | Freezer-safe bag or container | Up to 3 months | Thaw at room temperature; reheat briefly in the oven for fresh-baked taste. |
- Use Airtight Containers to prevent exposure to air which causes staling.
- Avoid stacking cookies directly on top of each other without parchment or wax paper layers to maintain shape and prevent sticking.
- If cookies harden slightly during storage, warming them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 3 to 5 minutes will restore softness.
By following these cooling and storage best practices, we ensure our Gold Medal Chocolate Chip Cookies stay irresistibly fresh and ready to enjoy at any time.
Tips and Variations
To perfect our Gold Medal Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe, we’ve gathered essential tips and creative variations. These suggestions help us customize flavors and avoid common pitfalls while baking our favorite cookies.
How to Customize Your Cookies
We can tailor our cookies to match any preference by adjusting ingredients and techniques:
- Add Nuts: Incorporate 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Use Different Chocolate Chips: Swap semisweet chips with white chocolate, bittersweet, or milk chocolate chips for varied sweetness.
- Enhance with Spices: Add ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of sea salt to boost flavor depth.
- Substitute Sugars: Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar for a caramel-like taste.
- Vary Texture: For softer cookies, bake for 9 minutes. For crispier edges, extend to 11 minutes.
- Include Oats: Mix in ½ cup rolled oats for a heartier bite.
- Experiment with Extracts: Replace vanilla extract with almond or maple extract for a unique aroma.
| Customization | Effect | Amount Suggested |
|---|---|---|
| Chopped Nuts | Adds crunch and nuttiness | 1 cup |
| Cinnamon | Warms up flavor | ½ teaspoon |
| Coconut Sugar | Slightly caramel sweetness | Replace brown sugar 1:1 |
| Rolled Oats | Adds chewiness | ½ cup |
| Almond/Maple Extract | Unique aromatic twist | Substitute 1 teaspoon |
“Customizing our cookies is a delightful way to keep this classic recipe fresh and exciting.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When baking our Gold Medal Chocolate Chip Cookies, we should steer clear of these frequent errors:
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long develops gluten, resulting in tough cookies. Mix just until dry ingredients are incorporated.
- Incorrect Measuring: Scooping flour directly can pack it, yielding dry cookies. Use a spoon to fluff and lightly spoon flour into measuring cups.
- Skipping Dough Chilling: Unchilled dough spreads too much. Always chill for at least 1 hour for thicker, chewier cookies.
- Overbaking: Cookies continue baking off the sheet. Remove them when edges are golden but centers still appear soft.
- Using Warm Ingredients: Butter and eggs should be at room temperature for smooth creaming and even mixing.
- Crowding the Baking Sheet: Leave at least 2 inches between scoops for proper spreading.
| Mistake | Result | How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Overmixing | Tough, dense cookies | Mix until just combined |
| Inaccurate Measuring | Dry or flat cookies | Fluff flour, spoon in, level off |
| Skipping Chilling | Excessive spreading | Chill dough 1-2 hours or overnight |
| Overbaking | Hard, dry cookies | Remove at golden edges, soft center |
| Warm Ingredients | Poor texture | Use room temperature butter & eggs |
| Crowded Baking Sheet | Irregular shape and uneven baking | Space dough 2 inches apart |
Conclusion
Baking the Gold Medal Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe is a rewarding experience that brings out the best in classic flavors and textures. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, we can create cookies that delight every time.
By paying attention to details like chilling the dough and precise baking times, we ensure a perfect balance of crispy edges and chewy centers. Plus, the flexibility to customize means these cookies can suit any taste or occasion.
Let’s keep these tips in mind and enjoy the process of making—and sharing—these timeless treats with family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Gold Medal Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe special?
The recipe is loved for its perfect balance between crispy edges and chewy centers, using simple ingredients that yield rich, buttery cookies with melty chocolate chips, ideal for any occasion.
What are the key ingredients needed for these cookies?
You’ll need all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and semisweet chocolate chips. Optional add-ins include nuts for extra texture.
What equipment do I need to bake these cookies?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, an electric or stand mixer, measuring cups and spoons, a spatula, heavy-duty baking sheets, parchment paper or silicone mats, cooling racks, and a cookie scoop for uniform cookies.
How should I prepare the ingredients and baking sheets?
Measure ingredients accurately—use proper techniques for flour, sugars, and liquids. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats; avoid greasing sheets to control spreading and promote even baking.
What is the best way to mix the cookie dough?
Cream butter and sugars until fluffy, add eggs and vanilla, then slowly mix in dry ingredients. Fold in chocolate chips gently and chill dough for 1–2 hours or overnight to improve flavor and thickness.
At what temperature and for how long should I bake the cookies?
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake cookies for 9–11 minutes until edges are golden but centers stay soft. Rotate baking sheets as needed and avoid overbaking for the best texture.
How do I cool and store the cookies to maintain freshness?
Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack for 20–30 minutes. Store in airtight containers at room temperature, refrigerate, or freeze for longer freshness.
Can I customize the recipe with different ingredients?
Yes! You can add nuts, use various chocolate types, add spices, substitute sugars, include oats, or try different extracts to personalize the flavor and texture to your liking.
What common mistakes should I avoid when baking these cookies?
Avoid overmixing dough, measuring ingredients incorrectly, skipping dough chilling, overbaking, using warm ingredients, and overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure consistent, delicious cookies.