These chewy treats combine softened butter and a blend of granulated and brown sugars, creating a moist, tender texture. Generous semisweet chocolate chunks are folded evenly throughout the dough for bursts of rich chocolate in every bite. Baking until edges turn golden while centers remain soft ensures an ideal chewiness. Optional flaky sea salt adds a subtle contrast to the sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor. Perfect for an easy, sweet indulgence any time.
I still remember the first time I baked these chocolate chunk cookies; the aroma of melted chocolate and warm vanilla filled my tiny kitchen and instantly made the day feel special.
One evening when unexpected guests dropped by, I whipped up this dough quickly and before long, we were all sneaking warm cookies straight from the tray – a happy kitchen memory that sticks with me.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: I always use good quality flour as it gives the perfect structure to the cookies.
- Baking soda: This helps achieve that slight rise and tenderness you want in a chewy cookie.
- Sea salt: A pinch balances the sweetness and brings out the chocolate’s depth beautifully.
- Unsalted butter: Softened butter is key for creamy batter and rich flavor.
- Granulated sugar & light brown sugar: The combo adds caramel notes plus tenderness.
- Eggs: Room temperature eggs help everything bind just right.
- Pure vanilla extract: Always opt for the real deal for that warm fragrant boost.
- Semisweet chocolate chunks: Larger chunks spread uneven pockets of melty chocolate throughout every bite.
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper so cookies don&t stick and cleanup is easy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined—this prevents clumps and ensures even rising.
- Beat the Butter & Sugars:
- Using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light, creamy, and smooth—this step adds air for a tender crumb.
- Add Eggs & Vanilla:
- Incorporate eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully mixed in before adding the next, then stir in vanilla for that unmistakable warm scent.
- Combine Wet & Dry:
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined; overmixing can toughen the cookies.
- Fold in Chocolate Chunks:
- Gently fold the chocolate chunks evenly through the dough; this is where the magic pockets of gooey delight begin.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Dollop the dough in tablespoonfuls or use a cookie scoop spacing them about 2 inches apart on the baking sheets.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake for 11-13 minutes until edges are golden but centers still look a bit soft—cookies will firm up as they cool.
- Cool and Enjoy:
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack to prevent breakage and keep texture perfect.
These cookies became a symbol of comfort on rainy days and a way to bring friends together, creating memories that warm beyond just the oven.
Keeping It Fresh
Store baked cookies in an airtight container to maintain chewiness for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the dough balls wrapped on a tray then transfer to a container; bake from frozen adding a couple minutes to time.
When You’re Missing Something
If you run out of brown sugar, try mixing white sugar with a little molasses or honey to mimic that deep flavor and moisture.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
These cookies shine with a glass of cold milk but also make a great crumble topping for vanilla ice cream or can be chopped into brownie batter for a double chocolate treat.
- Before guests leave, remind them these cookies are best enjoyed warm and fresh.
- Oh wait one more thing, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top just before baking amps up the flavor.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully in a microwave for 10 seconds to melt the chocolate again.
Thanks for spending time baking with me - nothing beats sharing a warm cookie and good conversation in the kitchen.