Master the art of baking with our easy Toll House cookie recipe! Discover tips, step-by-step instructions, and enjoy delicious cookies. Get started now!
Introduction
The Toll House cookie recipe has been a staple in American kitchens for generations. Originally created by Ruth Wakefield in the 1930s, these iconic cookies combine the perfect balance of sweetness, chocolate, and texture. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this beginner-friendly guide will help you bake these delicious cookies from scratch with ease. Follow the step-by-step instructions below, and soon, you’ll be enjoying homemade Toll House cookies fresh from the oven. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started on this classic treat that never goes out of style.
Ingredients Needed for Toll House Cookies
For this Toll House cookie recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups (12 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
This simple ingredient list makes it easy to get everything ready for baking cookies from scratch!
Step-by-Step Instructions to Bake Toll House Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Before diving into mixing, make sure your butter is softened but not melted, allowing for easy incorporation. Measure your flour accurately by spooning it into a measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife. Finally, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper for an even bake.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Start by beating the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl until creamy. Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix—this can lead to tough cookies. Once mixed, fold in the chocolate chips and nuts for that classic cookie dough preparation.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, form dough balls roughly 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring at least 2 inches of space between each ball to allow the cookies to spread. Proper shaping cookie dough ensures they bake evenly and develop a consistent texture.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Set your oven to 375°F and bake the cookies for 9 to 11 minutes, or until they turn a light golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking, as they can quickly become crunchy instead of chewy. For optimal results, check the Toll House cookie baking time towards the end of the bake to make sure they stay soft in the center.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy!
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Cooling is essential, as it allows the cookies to firm up and develop their chewy texture. Enjoy warm, or store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness!
Nutritional Information for Toll House Cookies
Here’s a basic breakdown of the Toll House cookie nutrition facts per serving (1 cookie):
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Sugars | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 160 | 8g | 22g | 14g | 2g |
Tips for Making the Best Toll House Cookies
Tip 1: Choose the Right Chocolate Chips
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are the classic choice for this recipe, but you can experiment with dark or milk chocolate to adjust the sweetness and richness. The best chocolate chips for cookies will melt evenly without overpowering the flavor of the dough.
Tip 2: Chill the Dough for a Chewier Cookie
For chewier cookies with a more developed flavor, try chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This allows the fat to solidify, preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking. Knowing how to make cookies chewier is a game-changer for texture lovers!
Tip 3: Customize with Add-Ins
Get creative by adding nuts, toffee bits, or even extra chocolate chips to your dough. These cookie recipe add-ins offer endless ways to put a personalized spin on the classic Toll House cookie.
Conclusion
This Toll House cookie recipe is perfect for beginners looking to bake a classic treat that never disappoints. With its easy-to-follow steps and tips for customization, you’ll have delicious homemade cookies in no time. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your baking success! If you enjoyed this guide, be sure to subscribe for more tasty recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the secret to making Toll House cookies chewy?
The secret to making chewier Toll House cookies lies in chilling the dough before baking and using the right ratio of butter and sugar. This technique helps retain moisture, resulting in a soft and chewy texture.
Can I freeze Toll House cookie dough for later use?
Yes, you can freeze Toll House cookie dough for up to 3 months. Portion the dough into individual cookie sizes, wrap them tightly, and bake them fresh whenever you crave a warm cookie.
How can I make Toll House cookies softer?
To achieve softer Toll House cookies, consider slightly underbaking them by a minute or two. Additionally, storing the cookies in an airtight container will help maintain their softness.
What type of chocolate chips should I use for the best Toll House cookies?
For the best Toll House cookies, semi-sweet chocolate chips are traditional, but you can also experiment with dark or milk chocolate chips to suit your taste preferences. Each type offers a unique flavor and texture.
How long do I bake Toll House cookies?
Toll House cookies typically require about 9 to 11 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Keep an eye on them; they should be golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center for the best texture.
Can I substitute ingredients in the Toll House cookie recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ingredients in the Toll House cookie recipe. For instance, you can use coconut oil instead of butter, or gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour to accommodate dietary needs.
What’s the best way to store baked Toll House cookies?
Store baked Toll House cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them between layers of parchment paper in a sealed container.
Can I add nuts or other ingredients to my Toll House cookies?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Toll House cookies by adding nuts, toffee bits, or even dried fruit. This will add texture and flavor to your classic cookie recipe.
How can I ensure my Toll House cookies don’t spread too much?
To prevent your Toll House cookies from spreading too much, ensure that your butter is softened but not melted, and consider chilling the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
What is the nutritional information for Toll House cookies?
Toll House cookies typically contain about 150 calories per cookie, with approximately 7g of fat, 20g of carbohydrates, and 10g of sugar. Always check specific recipes for exact nutritional values.