Ghirardelli Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house, and when those cookies are made with Ghirardelli chocolate, the experience is taken to a whole new level. This Ghirardelli Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe is not just any cookie; it’s a delightful blend of buttery goodness, rich chocolate, and a chewy texture that will have you reaching for seconds (or thirds!). Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging yourself, these cookies are sure to impress. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try and how you can create these delectable treats in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ghirardelli Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe is packed with flavor and offers a perfect balance between crisp edges and a soft, chewy center. The use of both granulated and brown sugar gives these cookies a depth of sweetness, while the addition of an egg yolk ensures a rich, moist texture. Plus, with the signature Ghirardelli semi-sweet chocolate chips, each bite is a luscious experience. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe is straightforward and yields delicious results every time. Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite cookie!

Ingredient Checklist

• 3/4 cup butter – Unsalted, at room temperature for easy creaming.
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and a slight crunch.
• 2/3 cup brown sugar – For a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
• 1 egg – At room temperature to help with the mixing.
• 1 egg yolk – Adds richness and moisture.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Pure vanilla for the best flavor.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of your cookie dough.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise slightly.
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances all the flavors.
• 1 bag semi-sweet chocolate chips (approximately 11-12 oz) – The star ingredient for chocolatey goodness.

Gear Checklist

• Mixing bowl – For combining your ingredients.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer – For easy creaming of butter and sugars.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Precision is key in baking!
• Baking sheets – Line them with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon – For even cookie sizes.
• Wire rack – For cooling the cookies to perfection.

Ghirardelli Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe in Steps

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream the mixture together until it’s light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and kosher salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and salt throughout the flour.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate Chips

Using a spatula, gently fold in the Ghirardelli chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the cookie dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look soft.

Step 9: Cool the Cookies

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

If you’re looking to make a low-carb or keto version of this Ghirardelli Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe, here are some alternatives you can try:

• Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour.
• Use erythritol or monk fruit sweetener in place of granulated and brown sugar.
• Choose sugar-free chocolate chips for a lower-carb option.
• Consider adding a pinch of xanthan gum to help improve the texture.

Missteps & Fixes

• Cookies spreading too much: Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help prevent excessive spreading.
• Cookies too dry: Ensure you’re measuring flour correctly; too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
• Burnt bottoms: Check your oven temperature; if it runs hot, consider lowering it slightly or using parchment paper to protect the bottoms.
• Flat cookies: This could be due to old baking soda. Make sure it’s fresh to ensure proper leavening.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

To keep your Ghirardelli chocolate chip cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.
• Reheat frozen cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to restore their freshness.
• Consider layering parchment paper between cookies if you stack them in a container to prevent sticking.

Ask the Chef

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While you can substitute margarine for butter, it may alter the flavor and texture of the cookies. Butter provides a rich flavor and contributes to the cookie’s chewy texture, so it’s best to use unsalted butter for the best results.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

If you’re out of brown sugar, you can make a quick substitute by mixing granulated sugar with a little molasses (1 tablespoon of molasses per cup of granulated sugar) to mimic the flavor of brown sugar.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! This Ghirardelli Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe can be easily doubled. Just make sure you have enough baking sheets and space in your oven to bake them in batches if necessary.

Why are my cookies flat?

Flat cookies can result from several factors, including using melted butter, not enough flour, or old baking soda. Ensure all your ingredients are measured accurately, and try chilling the dough before baking to help maintain their shape.

Make It Tonight

Now that you have the ultimate Ghirardelli Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe at your fingertips, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends and family, these cookies are guaranteed to delight. With their rich flavor and perfect texture, they’ll quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire. So preheat that oven, and let the chocolatey goodness begin!

Indulging in these cookies is more than just a treat; it’s an experience. With each bite, you’ll appreciate the time and love that went into crafting these delightful morsels. Enjoy every moment of the baking process and share the joy of your Ghirardelli chocolate chip cookies with those you love. Happy baking!