Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Follow each step in order. The directions below are written so a beginner can understand what to do, what to look for, and when to move on to the next step.

1. Step 1.Preheat the oven to 375°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Step 2.Whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt together in a medium bowl so the leavening is evenly distributed.
3. Step 3.Beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy and slightly lighter in texture.
4. Step 4.Add the eggs one at a time, mixing after each addition, then blend in the vanilla.
5. Step 5.Add the dry ingredients gradually and mix only until the flour disappears; do not overwork the dough.
6. Step 6.Fold in the chocolate chips with a spatula so they are spread evenly throughout the dough.
7. Step 7.Scoop the dough into roughly 2-tablespoon portions and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared sheets.
8. Step 8.Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are golden but the centers still look slightly soft.
9. Step 9.Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes so they firm up before moving them to a rack.
10. Step 10.Cool completely before storing in an airtight container; serve warm for the softest center.