There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, soft chocolate chip cookie — the kind with a slightly crisp edge, gooey chocolate in every bite, and a soft, chewy center that melts in your mouth. If you’ve been searching for that perfect soft cookie recipe, your hunt ends here.
This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of making the softest, bakery-style chocolate chip cookies — all from scratch and without fancy tools.
Ingredients for Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies
Before you start, gather these baking essentials — most are pantry staples!
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/4 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Mix-ins:
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks
- Optional: a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for topping
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
Start by making the soft cookie magic happen with the right butter-sugar mix.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with brown sugar and white sugar until creamy and light.
- Use a hand or stand mixer for best results (about 2–3 minutes on medium speed).
Why it matters:
Brown sugar adds moisture and softness, while the extra egg yolk boosts chewiness.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Beat in the egg and egg yolk, one at a time.
- Mix in the vanilla extract until combined and smooth.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Slowly add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Do not overmix — stop when no flour streaks remain.
Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips
- Gently stir in your chocolate chips or chunks with a spatula.
- For extra gooey pockets, mix in a few larger chopped chocolate pieces.
Step 5: Chill the Dough (Optional, but Recommended)
For cookies that don’t spread too much and stay soft:
- Chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- You can also scoop dough balls onto a tray and freeze them for later baking.
Step 6: Bake to Soft Perfection
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop dough into 2-tablespoon-sized balls and place 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 9–11 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly underdone.
Pro Tip:
Right after baking, press a few extra chocolate chips into the tops while they’re hot — makes them look bakery-style!
Final Step: Cool and Enjoy!
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- They’ll continue to set up but stay soft and chewy inside.
Cookie Tips for Bakery-Style Results
- Use room temperature butter for even mixing.
- Don’t skip the egg yolk — it makes a big difference.
- For softer cookies later, store them with a slice of bread in an airtight container.
- Want thicker cookies? Chill longer!
Final Thoughts
Soft chocolate chip cookies are a classic for a reason — and now that you know the secrets, you can make them any time cravings hit. This recipe is perfect for sharing, gifting, or… keeping all to yourself. 😉
🍪 Save this recipe for your next baking day and don’t forget to pin it for later!
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