4-ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookies

4-Ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe from USA | Easy and Quick

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 11 minutes | Servings: 24 cookies

Introduction

Indulge in the simplicity and decadence of 4-ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookies, a recipe that proves deliciousness doesn't require complexity. This recipe is perfect for those craving homemade cookies without the hassle of a long ingredient list. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, these cookies are sure to impress with their rich flavor and perfect texture.

History

The concept of using a cake mix to create cookies is a relatively modern baking hack, emerging prominently in the late 20th century as home cooks sought shortcuts in the kitchen without sacrificing taste. This particular recipe, with its devil's food cake mix base, offers a rich, chocolatey experience, evolving from traditional chocolate chip cookies into something uniquely indulgent.

Ingredients

1 box of devil's food cake mix
0.33 cup of oil
2 large eggs
1 cup of chocolate chips

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Prepare several cookie sheets for baking.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, oil, eggs, and chocolate chips.
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared cookie sheets, keeping them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Transfer the cookies to an airtight container for storage.

Variations

Consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of sea salt to the dough to enhance the flavors. For a festive twist, mix in a half cup of crushed candy canes or sprinkle the tops with colored sugar before baking.
Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture, or swap the chocolate chips for white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips for a different flavor profile. For a festive twist, mix in some colored sprinkles.
Consider adding nuts for a crunchy texture or swapping the chocolate chips for white chocolate chips or peanut butter chips for a different flavor profile. Using a different flavor of cake mix, like yellow cake or spice cake, can also create interesting variations.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This improves the consistency of the batter. Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies, and don't overmix the batter to keep the cookies tender. Lastly, letting the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack will prevent them from breaking.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are perfect as a standalone treat or paired with a glass of milk. For a more decadent dessert, sandwich a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies to create an ice cream sandwich.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is the mixing of the batter to ensure all ingredients are well-incorporated without overmixing. Baking at the right temperature and timing is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a healthier version, substitute the oil with applesauce. To make the recipe vegan, use a plant-based egg substitute and ensure the cake mix and chocolate chips are vegan-friendly.

Make Ahead Tips

The cookie dough can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Presentation Ideas

Serve these cookies on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar or alongside a cup of coffee for an elegant presentation. For a festive touch, add colored sprinkles to the dough before baking.

Pairing Recommendations

These chocolate chip cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a cup of coffee. For a dessert wine pairing, consider a Port or a sweet Riesling to complement the chocolate flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. Reheating is not typically necessary, but if desired, warm them in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of these chocolate chip cookies, which is typically one cookie, contains approximately 200 calories. The calories mainly come from the carbohydrates and fats in the recipe.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of these chocolate chip cookies contains approximately 28 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of these carbohydrates is the devil's food cake mix and the chocolate chips, providing both the structure and the sweet, indulgent flavor of the cookies.

Fats

These cookies contain about 10 grams of fat per serving, with the majority coming from the oil and chocolate chips. The type of oil used can slightly alter the fat composition, but generally, it contributes to the cookies' moist and tender texture.

Proteins

Each cookie offers around 2 grams of protein, primarily from the eggs. While not a significant source of protein, the eggs play a crucial role in binding the ingredients together and adding to the cookies' structure.

Vitamins and minerals

While not a significant source of vitamins and minerals, these cookies do provide small amounts of iron and calcium from the cake mix and eggs. These nutrients contribute to the overall nutritional profile of the cookies.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as wheat (from the cake mix), eggs, and soy (often found in chocolate chips). Those with allergies to these ingredients should avoid this recipe or find suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, these 4-ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookies are a treat best enjoyed in moderation. They offer a delightful taste and texture but are higher in sugars and fats, with minimal protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

This 4-ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in baking. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a batch of delicious, indulgent cookies that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced baker, this recipe is a must-try for its ease and delicious results.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was a simple recipe for 4-ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookies that a friend had shared with me. I was always on the lookout for new and delicious recipes to add to my collection, and this one seemed perfect.

I remember the day vividly. It was a warm summer afternoon, and my friend had invited me over for tea. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping on our tea and catching up, she suddenly got up and disappeared into her pantry. I could hear the clattering of pots and pans as she rummaged through her shelves.

When she emerged, she was holding a tattered old recipe card in her hand. "I have to share this recipe with you," she exclaimed, excitement shining in her eyes. She handed me the card, and I read the simple list of ingredients: butter, sugar, flour, and chocolate chips.

"That's it?" I asked in disbelief. "No eggs or vanilla extract?"

"Nope," she replied with a grin. "Just these four simple ingredients, but trust me, they make the best chocolate chip cookies you'll ever taste."

I was intrigued. I had never heard of a chocolate chip cookie recipe that didn't include eggs or vanilla extract. But my friend was a wonderful cook, so I trusted her judgment. I made a mental note to try out the recipe as soon as I got home.

That evening, I gathered the ingredients and started baking. The dough came together easily, and soon my kitchen was filled with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cookies. As I pulled them out of the oven, I couldn't resist breaking one in half and taking a bite.

It was love at first bite. The cookies were perfectly crispy on the edges, yet soft and chewy in the middle. The rich buttery flavor paired perfectly with the sweet bursts of chocolate chips. I knew immediately that this recipe would become a staple in my baking repertoire.

I shared the cookies with my family, and they were an instant hit. My children begged me to make them again and again, and soon I found myself whipping up batches of these 4-ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookies on a regular basis.

As the years went by, I continued to make these cookies for family gatherings, potlucks, and bake sales. They were always met with rave reviews, and I became known as the "Chocolate Chip Cookie Queen" among my friends and family.

I often think back to that fateful day in my friend's kitchen when she shared this recipe with me. It was a simple gesture that had a profound impact on my life. It sparked a love for baking in me that has only grown stronger over the years.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope you will find as much joy and satisfaction in making these cookies as I have. Remember, sometimes the simplest recipes are the ones that bring the most joy. Happy baking!