These Joanna Gaines chocolate chip cookies are warm, gooey, and simply irresistible! With melted chocolate and a soft center, they’re a true crowd-pleaser.
Every time I bake these cookies, my house fills with the sweetest smell, and I can’t help but sneak a taste while they cool! Who can resist warm cookies? 😋
I love making these cookies because they’re so easy! A few simple steps and they’re ready to enjoy. Perfect for sharing with family or snacking late at night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Butter: You’ll want unsalted butter for better control over the salt content. If you need a dairy-free option, use vegan butter or coconut oil, but the texture may differ slightly.
Sugars: The mix of granulated and brown sugar gives the cookies their sweet flavor and chewy texture. If you’re short on brown sugar, you can make your own by mixing granulated sugar with a bit of molasses (1 tablespoon per cup).
Chocolate Chips: Use semi-sweet chips for the classic taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, try milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips. You can also mix in nuts for added crunch!
Flour: All-purpose flour works best for this recipe. For gluten-free cookies, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, but be sure it includes a binding agent like xanthan gum.
How Do I Ensure My Cookies Turn Out Soft and Chewy?
Getting that perfect chewy texture requires attention to a few key steps during the mixing and baking process:
- Don’t over-mix the dough! Mix just until the flour is incorporated to keep the cookies tender.
- Watch the baking time closely. Pull them out when the edges are slightly golden, as they will continue to cook on the baking sheet.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring them. This helps them set without hardening too much.
These simple tips make all the difference in achieving cookies that are soft and chewy every time!
How to Make Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups (about 12 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and an additional 9 to 11 minutes of baking time. Allow for a little cooling time afterward, and you’ll be enjoying delicious cookies in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly. Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
2. Creaming the Butter and Sugars:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture together until it’s light and fluffy. This step adds air to the mix and helps your cookies rise nicely.
3. Incorporating the Eggs:
Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. This helps to incorporate them fully into the batter, leading to a smoother cookie dough.
4. Mixing the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that the baking soda is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
5. Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix everything together just until combined; you don’t want to overmix, or your cookies could turn out tough.
6. Adding Chocolate Chips:
Now it’s time to add the stars of the show! Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Shaping the Cookies:
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading as they bake.
8. Baking:
Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 9 to 11 minutes. The edges should be golden, but don’t worry if the centers still look a bit soft—they’ll set as they cool!
9. Cooling the Cookies:
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 2 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps keep them from getting soggy.
10. Enjoying Your Cookies:
Your cookies are ready! Enjoy them warm with a glass of milk, or store them in an airtight container for up to a week. They’re perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself!
Can I Use Margarine Instead of Butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter, but keep in mind that this may alter the flavor and texture slightly. Choose one that is best for baking for optimal results.
Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Be sure it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best texture!
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, freeze them in a sealed container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to three months.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Feel free to get creative! You can add chopped nuts, a pinch of cinnamon, or even a dash of espresso powder for a deeper chocolate flavor. Dried fruits like cranberries or cherries also make a tasty addition!
