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Perfect Small-Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies: Easy One-Bowl Recipe

small-batch chocolate chip cookies - featured image

These small-batch chocolate chip cookies are simple, reliable, and delicious—crispy edges, soft centers, and just enough chocolate in every bite. No mixer required, ready in under 30 minutes, and perfect for small households.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 tablespoons (38g) granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons (43g) light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup + 2 tablespoons (83g) all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ⅓ cup (60g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl in 15-second bursts until just melted. Let cool for a minute if needed.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until smooth and slightly thickened, about 30 seconds.
  4. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously until pale, smooth, and slightly lighter in color, about 45 seconds to 1 minute.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
  6. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Fold gently with a rubber spatula until just combined—do not overmix.
  7. Fold in the chocolate chips. Reserve a few chips to press into the tops of the dough balls later.
  8. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for at least 15 minutes (30 minutes is better).
  9. Scoop the dough into 6 to 8 equal portions (about 1.5 tablespoons each). Roll into smooth balls and place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing 2 inches apart. Press extra chocolate chips into the tops.
  10. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, until edges are set and lightly golden but centers still look soft. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through.
  11. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Notes

Chilling the dough is crucial to prevent flat cookies. Use a kitchen scale for best results. For bakery-style cookies, press extra chocolate chips into the tops of the dough balls before baking. Cookies can be frozen baked or as dough balls.

Nutrition

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