Best Ever Chocolate Chunk Cookies

Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, gooey chocolate chunk cookie, where the rich flavors of browned butter and melting chocolate create a blissful experience. These are not just any cookies; these are the Best Ever Chocolate Chunk Cookies that will make your heart sing with each bite. With a few simple ingredients and a little love, you can whip up a batch that will have everyone begging for the recipe. Let’s dive into the world of chocolatey goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless chocolate chip cookie recipes out there, but this one stands out for a few reasons. First, the *browned butter* adds a depth of flavor that takes these cookies to a whole new level. Second, using a mix of dark brown sugar and granulated sugar provides a perfect balance of chewiness and sweetness. The generous chunks of semi-sweet chocolate ensure that every bite is a chocolate lover’s dream. Plus, these cookies are easy to make, requiring only basic pantry staples. Trust me, once you try these Best Ever Chocolate Chunk Cookies, you’ll never want to go back to regular chocolate chip cookies!

Ingredient Breakdown

To make the Best Ever Chocolate Chunk Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks or 16 tablespoons) unsalted butter – melted until browned and brought back to room temperature. This is key for flavor!
• 2 and 1/3 cups all-purpose flour – plus more if necessary for dough consistency.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – helps the cookies rise to perfection.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – enhances the flavors.
• 1 cup + 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar – packed, for that rich, caramel-like taste.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – balances the sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – adds a warm, aromatic flavor.
• 2 large eggs – at room temperature for better mixing.
• 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate – roughly chopped into chunks for melty goodness.

Essential Tools for Success

Before you get started, gather these essential tools to ensure your cookie-making adventure goes smoothly:

• Mixing Bowls – for combining wet and dry ingredients.
• Whisk or Electric Mixer – to cream the butter and sugars together.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Baking Sheet – lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Cookie Scoop – for perfectly portioned dough balls.
• Cooling Rack – to let your cookies cool evenly.

Build Best Ever Chocolate Chunk Cookies Step by Step

Making the Best Ever Chocolate Chunk Cookies is a delightful process. Follow these steps for cookie perfection:

Step 1: Brown the Butter

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the butter turns a golden brown color and smells nutty. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to burn it! Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and kosher salt. Set aside.

Step 4: Mix the Sugars and Butter

In a large bowl, combine the browned butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use a whisk or electric mixer to beat until well combined and smooth.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Gradually Add Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix! If the dough seems too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.

Step 7: Fold in the Chocolate

Gently fold in the chopped semi-sweet chocolate until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 8: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Enjoy warm or store for later!

Make It Fit Your Plan

These cookies can be adjusted to fit various dietary preferences or needs:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Vegan: Replace the butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg).
• Less Sugar: Reduce the granulated sugar to 1/4 cup while keeping the brown sugar the same for a less sweet option.
• Nutty Twist: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.

Insider Tips

• Be patient when browning the butter; it adds an incredible flavor that makes these cookies stand out.
• For extra chewy cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
• Experiment with different types of chocolate, like dark or milk chocolate, to suit your taste.
• Don’t use pre-chopped chocolate chips; the chunks melt and create delightful puddles of chocolate.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

If you happen to have cookies left over (though I doubt it!), here’s how to store them:

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes! You can use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar for a slightly different flavor profile, but the cookies will still be delicious.

What if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough seems too sticky, gradually add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the cookie dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before baking.

Make It Tonight

Now that you have the recipe for the Best Ever Chocolate Chunk Cookies, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and indulge in the ultimate cookie experience. Whether for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to please everyone. Bake them tonight, and enjoy the warm, chocolatey goodness that will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Happy baking!