Ingredients

Cookie Dough

• Butter: 200 g (softened)
• Vegetable oil: 100 ml
• Egg: 1 large
• Baking powder: 10 g
• Vanilla sugar: 10 g
• Starch (corn or potato): 200 ml
• Powdered sugar: 200 ml
• Flour: 700 ml (adjust as needed)
• Chocolate chips: 100 ml

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

How to Make Classic Chocolate Chip Butter Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Before starting, ensure that the butter is softened. Remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes prior to baking. Soft butter is easier to mix and creates a smooth, creamy dough.
2. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Line baking trays with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, vegetable oil, powdered sugar, and vanilla sugar. Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the dough, resulting in tender cookies.
2. Add the egg to the mixture and beat until fully incorporated.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and starch. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently after each addition.
4. Once the dough starts to form, fold in the chocolate chips using a spatula or wooden spoon. The dough should be soft but firm enough to hold its shape when rolled. If it’s too sticky, add a small amount of flour, a tablespoon at a time.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

1. Scoop out small portions of the dough, about the size of a walnut, and roll them into balls.
2. Place the balls on the prepared baking trays, leaving about 2-3 cm (1 inch) of space between each cookie. The cookies will spread slightly as they bake.
3. Gently flatten the balls with the palm of your hand or the back of a spoon. If desired, press a few extra chocolate chips onto the tops of the cookies for added visual appeal.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overbaking, as they should remain soft in the center.
2. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the trays for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Nutritional Information

• Servings: Approximately 35 cookies
• Calories (per cookie): ~150 kcal
• Protein: 2 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fat: 10 g
• Sugar: 8 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sodium: ~40 mg

Why Chocolate Chip Butter Cookies Are Timeless

The enduring popularity of chocolate chip butter cookies lies in their simplicity and universal appeal. These cookies are made with pantry staples, yet they deliver a flavor and texture that feels indulgent and special. The combination of butter and powdered sugar creates a luxurious base, while the chocolate chips add bursts of sweetness and richness that are impossible to resist.

Chocolate chip cookies have a way of bringing people together, whether it’s through a shared love of baking or the joy of enjoying a warm, freshly baked cookie straight from the oven. They’re a nostalgic treat that transcends generations, making them perfect for any occasion—from holiday parties to casual family gatherings.

Moreover, this recipe is versatile and forgiving, allowing bakers to experiment with mix-ins like nuts, dried fruits, or flavored chips. This adaptability ensures that chocolate chip butter cookies remain a staple in kitchens around the world.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but omit the pinch of salt in the recipe to maintain the balance of flavors.

2. Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! Shape the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the baking powder and starch are also gluten-free.

4. How do I ensure my cookies are soft?
Avoid overbaking the cookies. Remove them from the oven when the edges are just starting to turn golden, and allow them to cool slightly on the baking tray.

Tips for Making the Perfect Chocolate Chip Butter Cookies

1. Use Quality Ingredients: Since butter is a key ingredient, opt for high-quality butter for the best flavor. Similarly, use good-quality chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent taste.
2. Chill the Dough (Optional): If your dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for 20-30 minutes before shaping. This helps the cookies hold their shape during baking.
3. Even Sizes: Use a cookie scoop or measuring spoon to ensure all cookies are the same size, ensuring even baking.
4. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can result in dense cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

Storage Tips

1. Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Place a slice of bread in the container to keep the cookies soft.
2. Freezing Baked Cookies: Arrange the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
3. Freezing Dough: As mentioned earlier, the dough can be frozen and baked later, making it perfect for quick treats whenever a craving strikes.

Conclusion

Classic Chocolate Chip Butter Cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a symbol of comfort, joy, and connection. From their rich, buttery base to the sweet bursts of chocolate in every bite, these cookies capture the essence of homemade goodness. They are easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion, gifting them to a friend, or simply enjoying them with a cup of coffee on a quiet afternoon, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face. Their timeless appeal and versatility ensure that they’ll remain a cherished recipe for years to come.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and experience the simple pleasure of baking and enjoying these delightful cookies. They’re more than just a treat—they’re a testament to the magic of home baking. Happy baking!