If you’re craving soft, gooey, and irresistible chocolate chip cookies, this recipe is for you. These cookies are rich with buttery flavor, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and just the right balance of sweetness. Perfectly chewy in the center with golden-brown edges, they’ll have you reaching for one after another. Whether you’re making a batch for a family treat or simply satisfying your cookie cravings, these soft chocolate chip cookies are bound to become your go-to recipe!

Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies are the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves a rich, buttery cookie with a perfectly gooey interior. The combination of salted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar creates a flavor-packed dough that perfectly complements the melty chocolate chips. Baked to perfection with just the right amount of crispness around the edges, these cookies are a classic that never disappoints. And with the optional sea salt sprinkle on top, you’ll get an extra burst of flavor that takes these cookies to the next level.

Ingredients

8 Tbsp salted butter (microwaved until melted but not hot)
½ cup granulated sugar (raw cane sugar recommended)
¼ cup packed light brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 large egg
1½ cups (6.75 oz) all-purpose flour
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt (plus a pinch more if desired)
¾ cup chocolate chips and/or chocolate chunks

Optional: Sprinkle of sea salt before baking for extra flavor, or chopped nuts for a crunchy variation.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Microwave the butter for about 40 seconds until it’s just melted but not hot.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a stand mixer or using beaters, cream the melted butter with the granulated sugar and light brown sugar until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Add the vanilla extract and egg to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix on low speed for about 10-15 seconds until the ingredients are just incorporated.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Add the flour, baking soda, and salt to the mixture. Stir until the dough starts forming crumbs. Press the dough together by hand into a ball.

Step 5: Add the Chocolate

Fold in the chocolate chips and chunks using your hands for an even distribution of chocolate throughout the dough.

Step 6: Form the Dough Balls

Roll the dough into 12 large or 9 jumbo balls. Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure there’s space between each one.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the cookies for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are puffy but still pale.
Let the cookies cool on the pan for at least 30 minutes for the best texture. This helps them firm up and maintain their perfect soft center.

Notes & Variations

Sea Salt: For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the cookies before baking. It enhances the sweetness and gives the cookies a delightful contrast.
Add Nuts: Feel free to add chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) to the dough for a crunchy texture. You can also use dark or white chocolate instead of regular chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
For Thicker Cookies: If you prefer thicker cookies, try chilling the dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking.

Storage & Serving Tips

Storing: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They’re even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together.
Freezing: To freeze the dough for later, roll the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet for 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store them for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter, but you may need to add an additional pinch of salt to balance the flavors.

Q2: Can I use other types of sugar?
You can substitute raw cane sugar with regular granulated sugar. The light brown sugar provides moisture and a bit of caramel flavor, but you can also use dark brown sugar for a richer flavor.

Q3: How do I know when my cookies are done?
The edges should be golden brown, and the centers should still look slightly underbaked but puffy. They will continue to cook on the pan as they cool.

Q4: How can I make my cookies even softer?
For extra soft cookies, consider underbaking them slightly or adding a little more butter. You can also chill the dough before baking, which will help them stay thicker and softer.

Q5: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days before baking, or freeze the dough balls for later use.

Conclusion

These The Best Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies are everything you want in a cookie—rich, buttery, and perfectly soft with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you enjoy them straight out of the oven or a few hours later, they’ll satisfy your sweet tooth every time. This recipe is simple to make and perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to an afternoon snack. Enjoy the ultimate chocolate chip cookie experience with every bite!