Ultimate Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ingredients

• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (2 cups)
• Salt (1/2 tsp)
• Baking soda (1 tsp)
• All-purpose flour (3 cups)
• Vanilla extract (2 tsp)
• Eggs (2 large)
• Brown sugar (1 cup, packed)
• Granulated sugar (1 cup)
• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and allows for easy clean-up.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whip until the mixture is light and fluffy for the best texture.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time to the sugar-butter mixture, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the baking soda and salt are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough, which can lead to tough cookies.
6. Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, making sure they're evenly spread throughout the dough.
7. Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded dough portions onto the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they're spaced about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown. Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake, since baking times can vary.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This helps them set up and makes them easier to move. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve these ultimate chocolate chip cookies with a glass of milk for a perfect nostalgic treat.