Salted Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie
When it comes to classic treats, few can rival the irresistible charm of a freshly baked cookie. The Salted Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie is a delightful fusion of sweet and salty, yielding a chewy, rich flavor that keeps cookie lovers coming back for more. This recipe is a game-changer, featuring the perfect balance of textures and flavors, thanks to the use of salted butter, which enhances the overall taste while adding depth to the beloved chocolate chip cookie.
Why You’ll Keep Making It
The beauty of the Salted Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie lies not only in its deliciousness but also in its simplicity. With a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in no time. The salted butter brings a unique and delightful twist to the traditional cookie, enhancing the flavor profile in a way that will have your taste buds singing. The gooey chocolate combined with a hint of salt makes each bite a heavenly experience. Plus, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering, surprising a friend, or indulging yourself.
What Goes In
To create the perfect Salted Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie, gather the following ingredients:
- 4 ounces (115g) salted butter, at room temperature
- 2/3 cup (110g) packed dark or light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/3 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt or kosher salt
- 1 1/3 cups (200g) coarsely chopped bittersweet or semisweet chocolate
- 1 cup toasted nuts, coarsely chopped
Toolbox for This Recipe
Before you dive into the baking process, make sure you have the following tools ready:
- Mixing bowl – for creaming butter and sugars.
- Whisk or electric mixer – for easy mixing.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Baking sheet – to bake your cookies on.
- Parchment paper – to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Cooling rack – to cool your cookies after baking.
Build Salted Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Step by Step
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature salted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using a whisk or electric mixer, cream the mixture together until it is light and fluffy. This will typically take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 2: Incorporate the Egg and Vanilla
Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until fully incorporated, ensuring the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and flaky sea salt. This step ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and salt within the cookie dough.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate and Nuts
Gently fold in the coarsely chopped bittersweet or semisweet chocolate and toasted nuts using a spatula. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the chocolate and nuts throughout the dough.
Step 6: Chill the Dough (Optional)
For even better flavor and texture, consider chilling the dough for about 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and can result in a thicker cookie.
Step 7: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 8: Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden and the centers are slightly soft.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Enjoy your Salted Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies warm, or store them for later!
Texture-Safe Substitutions
If you need to make adjustments, consider these substitutions to maintain the integrity of the Salted Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie:
- Butter: If you prefer, you can use unsalted butter, but increase the flaky sea salt to 3/4 teaspoon to maintain flavor.
- Flour: For a gluten-free option, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Chocolate: Swap in your favorite chocolate chips or even white chocolate for a fun twist.
- Nuts: Feel free to omit the nuts or substitute with seeds for a nut-free version.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
When crafting your Salted Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie, remember that the quality of your ingredients matters. Use high-quality chocolate and fresh butter for the best flavor. The chilling step is optional but highly recommended, as it improves the cookie’s texture and allows the flavors to develop beautifully. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of chocolate or add-ins to make this cookie your own!
- For a chewier cookie, bake them for a shorter time.
- For a crispier cookie, extend the baking time slightly.
Best Ways to Store
To keep your Salted Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the baked cookies in a zip-top bag for up to three months. To enjoy them warm again, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or reheat in the oven.
Popular Questions
Can I use brown sugar only?
Yes, you can use all brown sugar for a richer flavor and chewier texture, but the cookies may spread more than with a mix of sugars.
How do I know when my cookies are done?
Cookies are done when the edges are golden brown, and the centers appear slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
Can I make these cookies without nuts?
Absolutely! Just omit the nuts, or replace them with seeds or additional chocolate for a nut-free version.
What should I do if my dough is too soft?
If your dough is too soft to scoop, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to firm it up before baking.
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Bring It to the Table
Serve your Salted Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies warm, straight from the oven, or allow them to cool to room temperature for a delightful treat anytime. Pair them with a glass of cold milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or coffee for the ultimate indulgence. These cookies are not just a dessert; they’re a comforting experience that brings people together. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or savoring a few alone, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to your face.
The Salted Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie is more than just a recipe; it’s a beloved tradition that can become a staple in your baking repertoire. With the perfect balance of salty and sweet, every bite is a reminder of the joy that comes from homemade treats. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the delightful aroma of baking cookies and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Salted Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature salted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using a whisk or electric mixer, cream the mixture together until it is light and fluffy. This will typically take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until fully incorporated, ensuring the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and flaky sea salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the coarsely chopped chocolate and toasted nuts using a spatula.
- For even better flavor and texture, consider chilling the dough for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden.
- Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate and fresh butter for the best flavor.
- The chilling step is optional but recommended for better texture.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
