Soft Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Soft Chocolate Chunk Cookies Recipe | USA | Ingredients: butter, brown sugar, vanilla, baking soda, salt, eggs, flour, dark chocolate, walnuts

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 8 minutes | Servings: 24 cookies

Introduction

Soft Chocolate Chunk Cookies are a classic treat that are loved by many. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a special celebration or just a sweet treat for yourself. The combination of rich dark chocolate chunks and crunchy walnuts makes these cookies irresistible.

History

The origins of chocolate chip cookies can be traced back to the 1930s, when Ruth Wakefield, the owner of the Toll House Inn in Whitman, Massachusetts, added chunks of Nestle chocolate to her cookie dough. The result was a deliciously soft and chewy cookie that quickly became a favorite among her guests. Since then, chocolate chip cookies have become a beloved classic in the world of baking.

Ingredients

2 sticks of butter, softened
1.5 cups of brown sugar
2 tsp of vanilla
1 tsp of baking soda
0.25 tsp of salt
3 large eggs
2.25 cups of flour
2.5 cups of dark chocolate chips
1 cup of coarsely chopped walnuts

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
In a mixing bowl, beat the butter, sugar, vanilla, baking soda, and salt until creamy.
Add the eggs and beat until fluffy.
Gradually beat in the flour until well blended.
Stir in the chocolate and nuts.
Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the dough onto ungreased baking sheets.
Bake for 8 minutes or until golden.
Allow the cookies to cool before serving.

Variations

Swap out the dark chocolate chips for milk chocolate or white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
Add in dried fruit such as cranberries or cherries for a sweet and tart twist.
Omit the walnuts for a nut-free version of the cookies.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before starting the recipe to ensure a smooth and creamy dough.

- Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.

- For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking.

- If you prefer a more gooey texture, slightly underbake the cookies and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Serving Suggestions

Soft Chocolate Chunk Cookies are perfect for serving with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter at a party or gathering.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to preheat your oven before baking the cookies to ensure even cooking.

- Use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough for evenly sized cookies.

- Rotate the baking sheets halfway through baking to ensure even browning.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use margarine or shortening in place of butter if desired.

- Brown sugar can be substituted with granulated sugar, but the texture and flavor of the cookies may be slightly different.

- Pecans or almonds can be used in place of walnuts for a different nutty flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

The cookie dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply scoop the dough onto baking sheets and chill until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter or cookie tray for a beautiful presentation. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra special touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Soft Chocolate Chunk Cookies pair well with a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. They also go well with a glass of red wine for a more sophisticated dessert option.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the cookies on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 5-10 minutes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Soft Chocolate Chunk Cookies contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Soft Chocolate Chunk Cookies contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Soft Chocolate Chunk Cookies contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Soft Chocolate Chunk Cookies contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Soft Chocolate Chunk Cookies are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Soft Chocolate Chunk Cookies contain dairy, eggs, wheat, and nuts.

Summary

Soft Chocolate Chunk Cookies are a delicious treat that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats. They are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Soft Chocolate Chunk Cookies are a classic treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With rich dark chocolate chunks and crunchy walnuts, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy them with a glass of milk or a scoop of ice cream for a delicious dessert that everyone will love.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Evelyn in her cozy little kitchen. As soon as I walked in, I was hit with the heavenly scent of chocolate and butter. Evelyn was busy pulling a tray of freshly baked cookies out of the oven, and I couldn't wait to sink my teeth into one.

"Would you like to try one of my famous soft chocolate chunk cookies?" Evelyn asked, a twinkle in her eye.

I eagerly accepted and took a bite of the warm, gooey cookie. It was pure bliss. The chocolate melted in my mouth, and the cookie was perfectly soft and chewy. I knew right then and there that I needed to get my hands on this recipe.

Evelyn saw the look of delight on my face and chuckled. "I see you're enjoying it," she said. "Would you like me to teach you how to make them?"

I jumped at the chance and spent the afternoon by her side, learning the ins and outs of baking the perfect soft chocolate chunk cookies. Evelyn shared with me her secret tips and tricks, including using high-quality chocolate chunks and chilling the dough before baking.

After a few tries and some tweaking of the recipe to suit my own taste, I finally mastered the art of making these delectable cookies. They became a staple in my household, loved by family and friends alike. I even started bringing them to potlucks and parties, where they were always a hit.

Over the years, I've added my own personal touch to the recipe, experimenting with different types of chocolate and even adding a hint of sea salt for an extra burst of flavor. Each batch I bake brings back fond memories of that day in Evelyn's kitchen, where I first fell in love with these soft chocolate chunk cookies.

As time went on, I continued to collect recipes from various places and people, each one adding to my culinary repertoire. I have a special recipe book filled with handwritten notes and clippings from magazines, a treasure trove of delicious dishes that have been passed down through generations.

But there's something about those soft chocolate chunk cookies that always brings me back to that sunny day with Evelyn. They hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy that comes from sharing good food with good friends.

So, whenever I bake a batch of these cookies, I think of Evelyn and the laughter we shared that day. And as I take a bite of the warm, gooey goodness, I'm reminded of the power of a simple recipe to bring people together and create lasting memories. And for that, I am forever grateful.