Baking & Pastry > Baking Equipment & Tools > Essential Baking Tools > Measuring Cups and Spoons

Perfectly Consistent Chocolate Chip Cookies

This recipe guarantees consistently delicious chocolate chip cookies every time, thanks to careful attention to measurement. Learn how to use your measuring cups and spoons effectively for baking success.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
9-11 minutes
Servings
36 cookies
Ingredients
  • 2 1/4 cups All-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon Baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup Granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup Brown sugar, packed
  • 2 Large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
  • 2 cups Chocolate chips

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Parchment prevents sticking. A consistent oven temperature is important for even baking.

Measure Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Use dry measuring cups and spoons. Level off each measurement for accuracy. Whisking ensures even distribution. It's very important to level off flour to avoid dry cookies.

Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Pack the brown sugar firmly into the measuring cup, then level it off. Creaming mixes air and sugar to butter.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps to emulsify the batter.

Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing. Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies.

Add Chocolate Chips

Stir in the chocolate chips. Distribute evenly throughout the dough. Be sure to use measuring cups to obtain the 2 cups of chocolate chips.

Drop by Rounded Spoonsful

Drop by rounded spoonsful onto the prepared baking sheets. Use a spoon to measure, but avoid packing. Ensure you leave enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Bake

Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Start checking at 9 minutes. The center of the cookies should still appear slightly soft. Remember to use correct time.

Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Precise measurements have produced consistently delicious cookies. Cooling allows cookies to set properly.

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FAQ

  • Why is it important to pack brown sugar?

    Brown sugar is moist, and packing it into the measuring cup ensures that you are using the correct amount. When packed, there are fewer air pockets, resulting in a more accurate measurement. The moisture in the brown sugar also contributes to the cookies' texture.
  • What happens if I overmix the cookie dough?

    Overmixing the cookie dough develops the gluten in the flour, leading to tough, chewy cookies instead of soft, tender ones. Mix only until the dry ingredients are just combined with the wet ingredients.
  • Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

    Yes, you can use salted butter, but you should reduce the amount of salt added to the dry ingredients to 1/2 teaspoon instead of 1 teaspoon. This will help balance the flavors.