Who can resist the perfect blend of buttery sugar cookies and gooey chocolate chips? This delightful twist on a classic cookie combines the soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture of sugar cookies with the rich, chocolatey goodness we all love. It’s the ultimate treat for cookie lovers who crave a little extra sweetness in every bite.
Sugar Cookie With Chocolate Chips Recipe
Let’s dive into the easy-to-follow recipe for making the most buttery, soft, and chocolate-filled sugar cookies right in your kitchen. Follow these precise steps to achieve perfectly baked cookies:
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Directions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for a non-stick surface.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs, one at a time, blending well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract for a rich, aromatic base.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually, add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until combined. Avoid overmixing, which can result in a tougher cookie texture.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Using a spatula, carefully fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough. Each cookie should have a nice balance of sugar cookie base and chocolate!
Step 6: Shape and Portion
Scoop about 1 1/2 tablespoons of dough and roll into a ball. Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked—that’s perfect for chewy cookies.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheets for 3-5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm for an ultra-gooey chocolate experience or store for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Quick Pro Tip:
For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the baked cookies while they’re still warm. It beautifully enhances the sweetness and chocolatey richness!
| Key Details | Specification |
|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | 350°F |
| Baking Time | 10-12 minutes |
| Yield | ~24 cookies |
| Storage | Airtight container, 5 days |
Ingredients
To craft these indulgent sugar cookies with chocolate chips, we’ll need a precise mix of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Below is the detailed list to ensure we achieve the perfect chewy yet buttery texture with gooey chocolate scattered throughout.
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, leveled and sifted
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Add-ins
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or more for an extra chocolatey kick)
- Optional: Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling on top
Ingredient Notes:
- Use high-quality vanilla extract for a deeper, nuanced flavor.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips enhance the balance of sweetness in these cookies. Opt for mini chocolate chips if you want more even chocolate distribution.
- Sifting the dry ingredients ensures a lighter texture in your cookies.
Here’s a breakdown of main ratios to keep handy:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (2 sticks) |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Light brown sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Large eggs | 2 |
| All-purpose flour | 2 1/2 cups |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | 1 cup or more |
With all our ingredients prepped and measured, we’re ready to bring these cookies to life! Each component plays a vital role in delivering the ultimate cookie experience—from the buttery richness to the flecks of chocolate chips in every bite.
Tools And Equipment
When preparing these sugar cookies with chocolate chips, using the right tools and equipment ensures precision and makes the entire baking process smoother. Here’s what we need:
Essential Baking Tools
- Mixing Bowls: Use one large bowl for wet ingredients and one medium bowl for dry ingredients. Opt for sturdy, non-slip bowls to prevent spills.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement is key. Include cups for dry ingredients and liquid measuring cups for wet ingredients.
- Whisk: A sturdy whisk works well for aerating and combining the dry ingredients.
- Hand or Stand Mixer: A stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a hand mixer simplifies creaming butter and sugar to achieve a light, fluffy texture.
- Rubber Spatula: Essential for scraping down the sides of bowls and folding in the chocolate chips evenly.
- Baking Sheets: Use flat, rimless baking sheets for even heat distribution. Line them with parchment paper for easy cookie removal and minimal cleanup.
- Cookie Scoop: A medium-sized cookie scoop ensures uniform cookie sizes, resulting in even baking.
- Cooling Racks: Proper cooling prevents overcooking from residual heat on the baking sheet.
Optional but Helpful Additions
- Sifter or Fine Mesh Strainer: Ideal for sifting flour and other dry ingredients to prevent lumps and create lighter cookies.
- Offset Spatula: Helpful for transferring cookies to the cooling rack without breaking them.
- Kitchen Scale: For precise measurements of ingredients, especially flour, ensuring consistent results.
Timed Process Guide
| Task | Recommended Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Creaming butter and sugar | Stand mixer or hand mixer | Achieve a light, airy dough texture for perfect consistency. |
| Mixing dry ingredients | Mixing bowl, whisk | Thoroughly combine flour, baking soda, and salt for even distribution. |
| Portioning cookie dough | Cookie scoop | Ensure uniform cookie sizing for even baking. |
| Baking | Baking sheets, parchment paper | Prevent sticking and promote even heat distribution for golden cookies. |
| Cooling | Cooling racks | Maintain texture and prevent overcooking from residual heat. |
Directions
Let’s dive into the steps to create the perfect sugar cookies with chocolate chips. Follow these detailed instructions for consistently scrumptious results.
Prep
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an evenly baked cookie.
- Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure an easy cleanup.
- Measure out all the ingredients precisely. Use a scale for the flour and other dry ingredients if desired for accuracy.
| Prep Items | Details |
|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | 350°F (175°C) |
| Baking Sheets | Lined with parchment or silicone |
| Ingredient Prep | Pre-measured, sift flour if needed |
Make The Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted softened butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of light brown sugar using a hand or stand mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add in two large eggs, one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until a cohesive dough forms. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
Add The Chocolate Chips
- Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Ensure they are evenly distributed for maximum chocolate in every bite.
- For variety, you can substitute or mix in 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips, dark chocolate chunks, or mini chocolate chips. This adds dimension to the final flavor and texture.
Chill The Dough
- Transfer the completed dough to an airtight container or cover the mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Allow the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This chilling step helps solidify the butter, resulting in cookies that hold their shape while baking.
- If time permits, letting the dough rest overnight enhances the flavor as the sugar further integrates into the dough.
Pro Tip: Chilled dough bakes into a chewier cookie with a slight caramelized edge while maintaining a soft center.
Baking Instructions
Now that the dough is perfectly chilled and ready to go, let’s transform it into soft, delectable sugar cookies with chocolate chips. Follow these steps for flawless results every time.
Prepare The Baking Sheet
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Use a cookie scoop or a rounded tablespoon to scoop out the dough. Each ball should measure about 1 to 1 ½ tablespoons, ensuring uniform cookies.
- Place the dough balls on the prepared sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart to allow for spreading while baking.
- For a visually pleasing result, press a few extra chocolate chips into the tops of the dough balls before baking.
Bake The Cookies
- Place the baking sheet on the center rack of the oven preheated to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for 9-11 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden, and the centers look soft. Avoid overbaking to retain their chewy texture.
- If using multiple sheets, bake one tray at a time. Rotate the sheet halfway through baking for even heat distribution.
| Temperature (°F) | Bake Time (Minutes) | Visual Cue |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F | 9-11 | Lightly golden edges |
Cool The Cookies
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes to help them set without breaking.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire cooling rack to cool completely and prevent overcooking from residual heat on the tray.
- Sprinkle a** pinch of flaky sea salt** over the cookies while still warm for a gourmet touch.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze them for longer storage.
These steps will ensure our sugar cookies with chocolate chips are crispy on the outside, beautifully chewy on the inside, and loaded with chocolatey goodness.
Optional Variations And Add-Ins
When it comes to sugar cookies with chocolate chips, there’s room to get creative and personalize the flavors to suit your cravings. Below, we’ve outlined Optional Variations And Add-Ins to elevate your cookies and give them a unique twist. Whether you want to experiment with textures, flavors, or festive touches, these suggestions will help make each batch unforgettable.
1. Alternative Chocolate Choices
Swap out or combine semi-sweet chocolate chips with these options for a different flavor profile:
- Milk Chocolate Chips for extra creaminess.
- Dark Chocolate Chunks to introduce a rich, bittersweet contrast.
- White Chocolate Chips for a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
- Mini Chocolate Chips for even distribution in every bite.
2. Nutty Additions
Add a satisfying crunch with your favorite nuts. Roughly chop these and gently fold them into the dough:
- Pecans or walnuts for a buttery, nutty flavor.
- Almond slivers for a light, slightly sweet crunch.
- Macadamia nuts for a tropical, rich texture.
3. Dried Fruits and Zest
Incorporate a fresh, fruity dimension:
- Add ½ cup of dried cranberries or chopped apricots for a chewy burst of sweetness.
- Mix in orange zest or lemon zest for a zesty, citrus aroma.
4. Festive Seasonal Twists
Perfect for holidays or themed occasions:
- Fold in colored sprinkles or seasonal confetti to match the celebration.
- Substitute peppermint chips or crushed candy canes during the winter season to infuse a refreshing peppermint touch.
5. Enhanced Flavors
Boost the depth of your cookies with these flavorful add-ins:
- Coconut Flakes: Add ½ cup of unsweetened coconut flakes for a tropical note.
- Espresso Powder: Stir in 1 teaspoon of espresso powder to heighten the chocolate intensity.
- Toffee Bits: Sprinkle in ½ cup of toffee bits for a decadent caramelized crunch.
6. Gluten-Friendly Options
For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other add-ins are gluten-free.
7. Vegan Modifications
These swaps make the recipe vegan-friendly:
- Replace butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.
- Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal (1 Tbsp flaxseed + 3 Tbsp water per egg).
- Use dairy-free chocolate chips.
Quick Reference Table for Add-In Measurements
| Add-In | Suggested Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chocolate Variations | 1 cup | Semi-sweet, milk, dark, or white |
| Nuts (pecans, walnuts, etc.) | ½ cup | Roughly chopped for texture |
| Dried Fruits or Zest | ½ cup (fruits) or 1 tsp (zest) | Adds sweetness or citrusy zing |
| Coconut Flakes | ½ cup | Unsweetened flakes for tropical flair |
| Toffee Bits | ½ cup | Adds crunchy caramel bits |
| Espresso Powder | 1 tsp | Intensifies chocolate flavor |
Make-Ahead And Storage Tips
When it comes to planning ahead or preserving the irresistible flavor of our sugar cookie with chocolate chips, proper storage and preparation make all the difference. Here’s how we can maximize freshness and extend the shelf life of these delicious treats:
Make-Ahead Dough Tips
- Prepare the dough in advance: After mixing the ingredients and folding in the chocolate chips, cover the dough tightly in plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container before chilling.
- Chill for optimal results: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes (or up to 72 hours) intensifies the flavors and ensures the cookies bake evenly and stay perfectly chewy.
- Freeze the dough for longer storage: Scoop the dough into individual balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze until firm, about 2 hours. Transfer the frozen balls into a freezer-safe bag or container, labeled with the date.
Pro Tip: For easy baking straight from the freezer, add 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time without thawing the dough first.
Best Storage Practices for Baked Cookies
Once our sugar cookies with chocolate chips are baked to golden perfection, storing them correctly ensures they remain fresh, soft, and flavorful for days:
- Cool completely before storage: Allow cookies to cool fully on a wire rack before storing to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
- Use an airtight container: Arrange cookies in a single layer in an airtight container. If stacking, separate layers with parchment or wax paper to maintain their texture and avoid sticking.
- Store at room temperature: Keep the container in a cool, dry place to preserve freshness for up to 5 days.
Long-Term Freezing Tips
Freezing baked cookies is a fantastic option for make-ahead treats or saving leftovers:
- Wrap individually for best results: Wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap and layer them in a freezer-safe container or ziploc bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months: Cookies retain their flavor and texture when properly frozen.
To Serve: Let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, or warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a freshly baked feel.
Quick Storage Reference Table
| Storage Method | Temperature | Duration | Prep Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chilled Dough | 34°F-40°F (Fridge) | Up to 72 hours | Wrap tightly or store in an airtight container. |
| Frozen Dough Balls | 0°F (Freezer) | Up to 3 months | Scoop into balls, freeze flat, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. |
| Baked Cookies – Room Temp | 68°F-72°F | Up to 5 days | Store in airtight containers with parchment paper layers. |
| Frozen Baked Cookies | 0°F (Freezer) | Up to 3 months | Individually wrap to maintain texture and freshness. |
Keep In Mind
- Recrisping stored cookies: If the cookies lose their slightly crisp edges after storage, toss them into a 300°F oven for 3-5 minutes to refresh their texture.
- Avoid refrigerating baked cookies: Refrigeration tends to dry out baked cookies, reducing their tender chewiness.
Conclusion
There’s something magical about the combination of buttery sugar cookies and rich chocolate chips that makes every bite irresistible. This recipe offers the perfect balance of simplicity and indulgence, making it a must-try for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you stick to the classic version or explore creative add-ins, these cookies are sure to impress.
With a little preparation and the right techniques, you’ll create cookies that are soft, chewy, and packed with chocolatey goodness. So grab your favorite ingredients, preheat the oven, and treat yourself to a batch of these delightful cookies. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes these sugar cookies with chocolate chips unique?
These cookies combine the classic buttery sweetness of sugar cookies with gooey chocolate chips for an indulgent twist. The soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and customizable add-ins make them stand out.
How many cookies does this recipe yield?
The recipe makes approximately 24 cookies, depending on the size of your dough scoops.
Why is chilling the dough necessary?
Chilling the dough helps the cookies hold their shape during baking, enhances flavor, and creates a chewier texture with slightly caramelized edges.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Yes! You can customize the recipe with milk, dark, or white chocolate chips for varying sweetness levels.
What tools are essential for this recipe?
Basic tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups, a whisk, and a mixer. A cookie scoop, baking sheets, parchment paper, and cooling racks are also highly recommended for even baking and easy cleanup.
How do I store the baked cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough by shaping it into balls and placing them on a tray to freeze. Once solid, transfer the frozen dough balls to an airtight bag or container for up to 3 months.
How long do the cookies bake, and at what temperature?
Bake the cookies at 350°F (175°C) for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers stay soft.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free or vegan?
Yes, substitute gluten-free flour for regular flour, and use plant-based butter, egg substitutes, and dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan version.
What are some optional add-ins for this recipe?
Consider adding nuts (like pecans or walnuts), dried fruits, citrus zest, or a pinch of espresso powder for added flavor. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhances the sweetness.
How should I prepare my baking sheet?
Line the baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking for each batch.
Is sifting the dry ingredients necessary?
Sifting the dry ingredients helps create a lighter texture by reducing clumps and ensuring even distribution in the dough.
Can I bake ahead for events or holidays?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough ahead of time, freeze it, or bake and store cookies in an airtight container. You can also freeze baked cookies and thaw them as needed.
How can I keep my cookies soft longer?
Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread. The bread helps retain moisture, keeping the cookies soft for days.
What is the best way to reheat cookies?
To refresh cookies, warm them in a 300°F oven for 3–4 minutes or microwave for 10–15 seconds for a soft, gooey texture.