Few treats bring as much comfort and joy as a warm chocolate chip cookie fresh from the oven. Our Land O Lakes Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe takes this classic favorite to the next level by using rich, creamy Land O Lakes butter that adds incredible flavor and a perfect texture. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself this recipe delivers soft chewy centers and golden crispy edges every time.
Ingredients
To bake the perfect Land O Lakes Chocolate Chip Cookies, gathering the right ingredients is essential. Each component works together to create that iconic balance of soft, chewy centers and golden, crispy edges. Here’s what we need to craft these irresistible cookies.
Dry Ingredients
We begin with the dry essentials that provide structure and sweetness:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup Land O Lakes granulated sugar
- 1 cup Land O Lakes packed brown sugar
Wet Ingredients
Next come the wet ingredients, including the star of our recipe: Land O Lakes butter to deliver a rich, buttery flavor and perfect texture:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) Land O Lakes unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins
For those who want to customize their cookies, here are some excellent add-in options that complement the rich buttery chocolate chip base:
| Add-In | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Chopped nuts | ½ cup | Walnuts or pecans, finely chopped |
| Sea salt flakes | A pinch | For a salted sweet contrast |
| Oats | ¼ cup | Adds chewy texture and heartiness |
Using these high-quality ingredients ensures our Land O Lakes Chocolate Chip Cookies will be flavorful and perfectly textured every time.
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Land O Lakes Chocolate Chip Cookies, having the right equipment on hand ensures smooth preparation and consistent results. Here is a detailed list of the essential tools we use to bake these delicious cookies:
- Mixing Bowls: Use medium and large bowls for combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
- Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: For creaming the Land O Lakes unsalted butter with sugars evenly until light and fluffy.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements drive cookie success, so use standard measuring tools for flour, sugars, baking soda, and salt.
- Rubber Spatula or Wooden Spoon: To scrape sides of the bowls and fold in chocolate chips and optional add-ins without deflating the dough.
- Baking Sheets: Choose rimmed baking sheets for even baking and easy handling.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Prevent sticking and promote even browning by lining your baking sheets.
- Cooling Rack: Essential for cooling cookies evenly and maintaining crisp edges.
- Cookie Scoop or Tablespoon: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for consistent baking times.
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Separate wet and dry ingredient mixing | Use glass or stainless steel for durability |
| Electric or Stand Mixer | Creaming butter and sugars | Speeds mixing, gives smooth texture |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Precise ingredient measuring | Key for recipe accuracy |
| Rubber Spatula/Wooden Spoon | Folding in chips and mixing dough | Gentle mixing preserves dough texture |
| Baking Sheets | Baking the cookies | Use heavy-duty for best heat distribution |
| Parchment Paper/Silicone Mat | Prevents sticking and aids clean-up | Reusable mats reduce waste |
| Cooling Rack | Cooling cookies uniformly | Prevents sogginess |
| Cookie Scoop/Tablespoon | Portioning dough evenly | Creates uniform cookies |
Using these tools guarantees our Land O Lakes Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe bakes evenly with the ideal soft centers and crispy edges that we all love. Let’s move on to combining these ingredients with confidence using our essential equipment.
Prep Work
Before we start mixing the ingredients for our Land O Lakes Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe, a little preparation goes a long way. Getting our workspace and tools ready ensures a smooth baking process and perfectly baked cookies every time.
Preparing the Baking Sheets
To achieve cookies with golden, crispy edges and soft centers, preparing the baking sheets properly is essential. We recommend lining each baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents sticking and promotes even baking, so our cookies come off the sheet effortlessly without breaking. Avoid greasing the pans directly as this can cause spreading beyond control.
Pro tip: If using multiple batches, rotate the baking sheets halfway through the baking time. This helps maintain consistent color and texture across all cookies.
Measuring Ingredients
Accurate measurements are crucial to create the ideal texture and flavor profile in our Land O Lakes Chocolate Chip Cookies. Using the right amount of flour, sugars, and the star ingredient—Land O Lakes unsalted butter—makes all the difference between soft, chewy centers and crispy edges.
| Ingredient | Measurement Tips |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | Spoon into measuring cup; level off with a straight edge |
| Baking soda | Measure with a dry measuring spoon, level for precision |
| Granulated sugar | Use standard measuring cups; leveled |
| Brown sugar | Pack tightly into the measuring cup for accuracy |
| Land O Lakes butter | Use at room temperature, measured by weight or sticks |
We suggest weighing ingredients on a kitchen scale whenever possible. This minimizes errors and keeps our cookies consistent batch after batch.
By carefully preparing our baking sheets and measuring each ingredient with precision, we set the stage for baking the best cookies possible with the rich flavor and perfect texture that the Land O Lakes Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe promises.
Instructions
Let’s bake the perfect batch of Land O Lakes Chocolate Chip Cookies by following these clear and precise steps. Each stage focuses on building that signature flavor and texture.
Mixing the Dough
- Cream the Butter and Sugars:
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup (2 sticks) of room temperature Land O Lakes unsalted butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and 3/4 cup packed brown sugar. Use an electric or stand mixer on medium speed. Mix for about 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients Separately:
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon salt.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients Into Wet:
Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture. Mix with the mixer on low speed or fold using a rubber spatula. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
Adding the Chocolate Chips
- Fold in 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips gently with a rubber spatula to distribute evenly throughout the dough.
- Optional: Add 1 cup chopped nuts, oats, or a sprinkle of sea salt flakes for customizing texture and flavor.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Semisweet chocolate chips | 2 cups |
| Optional chopped nuts | 1 cup (if using) |
| Optional oats | 1 cup (if using) |
| Optional sea salt flakes | as desired |
Chilling the Dough (If Applicable)
- Cover the mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours.
Chilling enhances the cookie flavor and helps control spreading for thicker, chewier cookies.
- Remove dough from the fridge about 10 minutes before scooping to soften slightly for easier handling.
Baking Directions
Baking the Land O Lakes Chocolate Chip Cookies to perfection requires precise temperature settings and timing. Follow these steps closely for soft centers and crisp edges every time.
Oven Temperature and Preheat Time
Set your oven to a steady 350°F (175°C) for optimal baking results. Preheat the oven thoroughly for at least 15 minutes before placing your cookies inside to ensure even heat distribution. This critical step helps the cookies bake uniformly, allowing the Land O Lakes butter to create that signature rich flavor and texture.
| Step | Temperature | Preheat Time |
|---|---|---|
| Oven setting | 350°F | 15 minutes |
| Purpose | Even baking | Consistent heat |
Cookie Baking Time and Tips
Bake the cookies on a middle rack for 10 to 12 minutes. Watch closely as the edges turn a golden brown while the centers remain slightly soft to the touch. This balance is key to the perfect chewiness.
Pro tips to keep in mind:
- Use parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Avoid overbaking; remove cookies as soon as the edges set.
- Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking for even browning.
- For thicker cookies, chill dough slightly longer before baking to reduce spreading.
Cooling the Cookies
Once baked, transfer the cookies to a cooling rack immediately using a spatula. Let them cool for at least 10 minutes to firm up while retaining their soft interiors.
“Cooling on a rack prevents condensation, preserving the crisp edges and tender centers that make these cookies irresistible.”
Use this time to prepare a fresh batch or enjoy a warm cookie paired with cold milk or your favorite beverage.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Proper storage preserves the freshness and texture of our Land O Lakes Chocolate Chip Cookies. Here are the best practices to keep your cookies delicious for days:
Storing Cookies
- Allow cookies to cool completely on the cooling rack before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps the edges crisp and interiors soft for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze cookies in a sealed plastic bag or airtight container. Wrap individually in parchment paper for easy thawing.
- To thaw frozen cookies, leave at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours or warm briefly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to restore softness.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Storage Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Airtight container | Up to 5 days | Maintains soft centers and crisp edges |
| Freezer | Sealed plastic bag/container | Up to 3 months | Wrap individually for best results |
| Thawing | N/A | 1 to 2 hours or oven warming | Oven warming restores freshness |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve cookies at room temperature to enjoy their signature soft, chewy centers and golden, crispy edges.
- Pair with a cold glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or hot chocolate for a comforting treat.
- For celebrations, arrange cookies on a platter and sprinkle with a light dusting of sea salt flakes or drizzle melted chocolate for an elegant touch.
- Warm cookies slightly in the oven or microwave before serving to revitalize freshness and enhance the Land O Lakes butter flavor.
Tip: Adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies makes a delightful ice cream sandwich that highlights the rich, buttery flavor of our recipe.
By following these storage and serving suggestions we ensure every bite of our Land O Lakes Chocolate Chip Cookies remains as delicious as the first bite.
Conclusion
Baking with Land O Lakes butter truly elevates the classic chocolate chip cookie into something extraordinary. With the right ingredients, tools, and attention to detail, we can achieve that perfect balance of soft centers and crispy edges every time.
Whether we’re baking for a special occasion or just a cozy treat at home, this recipe promises consistent, delicious results. Let’s keep experimenting with add-ins and enjoy the process as much as the final product. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Land O Lakes butter ideal for chocolate chip cookies?
Land O Lakes butter enhances flavor and texture with its rich, creamy quality, resulting in soft centers and crispy edges in cookies.
Can I add nuts or oats to the Land O Lakes Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe?
Yes, you can customize the recipe by adding chopped nuts, oats, or sea salt flakes for additional flavor and texture.
Why should I line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats?
Lining prevents cookies from sticking and promotes even baking without uncontrolled spreading, which can happen if pans are greased directly.
How important is measuring ingredients accurately for these cookies?
Accurate measuring ensures the right texture and flavor. Using a kitchen scale and proper measuring techniques improves consistency and results.
Why chill the cookie dough before baking?
Chilling the dough for at least an hour enhances the flavor and controls spreading, producing a better texture with soft centers and crisp edges.
What oven temperature and baking time should I use?
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake cookies on the middle rack for 10–12 minutes for perfect browning and texture.
How should I store baked cookies to keep them fresh?
Let cookies cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.
What are the best ways to serve these chocolate chip cookies?
Serve at room temperature with milk or coffee, or use them to make ice cream sandwiches for a delicious treat.