How do we make cookie dough?

Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough

Ingredients:

* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

* 3/4 cup granulated sugar

* 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar

* 2 large eggs

* 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

* 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

* 1 teaspoon baking soda

* 1 teaspoon salt

* 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.

2. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.

3. Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Don't overmix!

4. Stir in Chocolate Chips: Fold in the chocolate chips with a spatula.

5. Chill: Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the dough firm up and prevents the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.

6. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Scoop dough onto ungreased baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until golden brown.

7. Cool: Let cookies cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Cookie Dough:

* Butter Temperature: Use softened butter, not melted. Cold butter will make the dough tough, and melted butter will result in flat cookies.

* Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

* Chilling: Chilling the dough is essential for achieving the best texture and preventing cookies from spreading too much.

* Baking Time: Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Start with the lower end of the recommended time and check cookies frequently.

* Variety: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, nuts, or other mix-ins to create your own signature cookie dough.

Enjoy!