There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked small batch chocolate chip cookies wafting through the kitchen, promising sweet, gooey goodness with every bite. Picture this: golden edges that give way to a soft, chewy center, melted chocolate chips glistening like tiny treasures waiting to be discovered. Baking these delightful treats not only fills your home with warmth but also brings a sense of nostalgia as you recall moments spent with loved ones over delicious cookies.
This recipe for small batch chocolate chip cookies is perfect for those times when you crave something sweet but don’t want to whip up a dozen (because let’s be honest, who needs that kind of temptation?). Whether it’s a cozy night in or a spontaneous gathering with friends, these cookies are sure to steal the show and your heart.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These small batch chocolate chip cookies come together quickly for an effortless baking experience
- Their rich flavor and melty texture make them simply irresistible
- Perfect as an after-school snack or late-night treat, they always satisfy cookie cravings
- Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins!
One time I made these cookies for a friend’s birthday party, and they disappeared faster than I could say “more chocolate”! Watching everyone enjoy them was pure joy.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of your cookie dough; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
Baking Soda: A crucial leavening agent that gives your cookies the perfect lift; don’t skip it.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness of the chocolate; trust me, it makes a big difference.
Unsalted Butter: Using room temperature butter ensures a creamy dough that results in chewy cookies.
Brown Sugar: The brown sugar adds depth and moisture; go for light or dark based on your preference.
Granulated Sugar: For just the right amount of sweetness and crispiness on the edges.
Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for that classic flavor that screams homemade goodness.
Egg Yolk: Just one yolk keeps your cookies rich and prevents them from spreading too much.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chips are perfect here, but feel free to mix in milk or dark chocolate if you’re feeling adventurous.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy—about 2 minutes should do it!
Add Egg Yolk and Vanilla: Beat in one egg yolk along with vanilla extract until fully incorporated; this step adds richness and flavor that will make your cookies irresistible.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your cookies tender!
Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in those glorious chocolate chips until evenly distributed. You want every bite to have that glorious melty goodness!
Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet: Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to drop dough balls onto prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. Don’t worry about being perfect; rustic is charming!
Bake and Cool Cookies: Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center. Let them cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to wire racks.
And there you have it—your very own small batch chocolate chip cookies! Enjoy them warm straight from the oven or store them in an airtight container if you manage not to eat them all at once. Happy baking!
You Must Know
- Small batch chocolate chip cookies are perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth without the guilt of overindulging
- The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make you feel like a baking wizard, and they’re easy to whip up in under 30 minutes
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you mix the dough. This way, you’re ready to bake as soon as the dough is prepared, ensuring those cookies come out perfectly chewy.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in dark chocolate or nuts for a twist on traditional flavors. Adding a pinch of sea salt on top before baking can elevate the taste remarkably.
Storing & Reheating
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds to enjoy that freshly baked taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For small batch chocolate chip cookies, use room temperature butter for proper creaming with sugar
- Avoid overmixing after adding flour; it makes tough cookies
- Chill your dough briefly for thicker cookies that hold their shape better while baking
Baking these small batch chocolate chip cookies always brings back memories of my childhood kitchen adventures with my mom, who believed that every cookie was made with a sprinkle of love.
FAQ
Can I double the recipe for more cookies?
Doubling the recipe is easy; just keep an eye on baking time.
What if I don’t have brown sugar?
You can substitute white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses for similar flavor.
How do I make these gluten-free?
Simply substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend and enjoy!
Small Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies
Indulge in the warm, nostalgic aroma of small batch chocolate chip cookies that promise gooey goodness in every bite. These cookies feature crisp golden edges and a soft, chewy center filled with melty chocolate chips. Perfect for satisfying late-night cravings or sharing with friends, this quick and easy recipe ensures you can enjoy the delightful taste of homemade cookies without the temptation of a full dozen.
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: About 12 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Fold in chocolate chips gently.
- Scoop dough onto the prepared baking sheet about two inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown around the edges but soft in the center. Cool on wire racks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (20g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
