A warm, inviting aroma wafts through the kitchen as I pull a tray of freshly baked cookies from the oven. There’s something magical about the moment when the sweet scent of one-bowl salted chocolate chip cookies fills your home, drawing in everyone nearby. This delightful recipe combines a chewy texture and crispy edges with an irresistible sprinkle of flaky sea salt, creating the perfect balance of sweet and salty. Not only are these cookies incredibly fast to whip up, but they also require minimal cleanup, making them the perfect choice for a cozy dessert that will impress family and friends. Ready to indulge your sweet tooth without the hassle? Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that’s sure to become a favorite.
Why Make These Salted Chocolate Chip Cookies?
One-Bowl Wonder: Enjoy the convenience of a simple, quick cleanup with this one-bowl recipe that doesn’t require a mixer, perfect for busy home cooks.
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of sweet chocolate and a touch of sea salt creates a unique flavor profile that’s impossible to resist.
Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies emerge from the oven with a delightful chewiness that will keep you reaching for more.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these cookies will satisfy both kids and adults, making them a guaranteed hit at any event.
Customizable Creation: Feel free to mix in different chocolate varieties or nuts to create a personal signature cookie that showcases your unique taste. Check out my Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies for more delicious dessert inspiration!
Salted Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to bake the most delicious cookies!
For the Batter
• Unsalted Butter (½ pound / 2 sticks) – Provides richness and moisture; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
• Light Brown Sugar (¾ cup) – Adds sweetness and depth; dark brown sugar can be used for a richer taste.
• Granulated Sugar (½ cup) – Contributes sweetness and crunch; no direct substitute, adjust other sugars if omitting.
• Egg (1) – Binds ingredients and helps cookies rise; no substitutions unless using a flax egg for a vegan option.
• Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons) – Enhances the flavor; use pure vanilla for best results, imitation works too.
• All-Purpose Flour (1¾ cups) – Forms the structure of the cookies; gluten-free flour blend can be a necessary alternative.
• Nonfat Milk Powder (2 tablespoons) – Adds chewiness and a slight caramel flavor; substitute with additional flour if needed.
• Kosher Salt (1¼ teaspoons) – Balances sweetness; avoid using table salt, as it’s too salty.
• Baking Powder (½ teaspoon) – Provides leavening; baking soda can be used if necessary, but adjust quantities accordingly.
• Baking Soda (¼ teaspoon) – Also assists in cookie rise; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
For the Chocolate
• Semisweet Chocolate Chips (12 ounces) – Main source of chocolate flavor; swap for dark chocolate chips for a richer experience.
• Flaky Sea Salt (¼ cup for sprinkling) – Enhances the flavor contrasts; kosher salt can be used instead for mixing the dough.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One-Bowl Salted Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your cookies will bake evenly and achieve that perfect, golden brown color. While the oven heats, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy removal of the cookies.
Step 2: Mix Sugars and Butter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter with the light brown and granulated sugars using a sturdy wooden spoon. Stir vigorously for about one minute until the mixture is smooth and glossy, indicating that the sugars have begun to dissolve and blend into the butter.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Next, crack the egg into the sugar-butter mixture and pour in the vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined, creating a rich, luscious batter. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture appears thick and shiny, with no visible traces of egg remaining.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour, nonfat milk powder, kosher salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Use a spatula to mix gently, ensuring that all dry ingredients are just combined into the wet mixture. Avoid overmixing; a few flour streaks are okay as they will disappear during baking.
Step 5: Mix in Chocolate Chips
Now it’s time to add the star of the show—the semisweet chocolate chips! Carefully fold them into the dough with a spatula until they are evenly distributed. The chocolate should be visible throughout the batter, giving you an enticing preview of the chewy, chocolatey goodness of your salted chocolate chip cookies.
Step 6: Portion the Dough
Use a cookie scoop or your hands to portion out the dough into balls about the size of a golf ball. Place them on your prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave sufficient space between each ball, approximately 2-3 inches apart. This spacing allows the cookies to spread beautifully while baking.
Step 7: Sprinkle with Sea Salt
For that delightful salty finish, lightly sprinkle flaky sea salt over the tops of each cookie dough ball. This step adds a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the chocolate, making your one-bowl salted chocolate chip cookies simply irresistible.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the cookies for 9-11 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the edges should be golden brown while the centers remain soft and slightly underbaked for a chewy texture.
Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step allows them to set properly while staying soft and chewy, ready to be enjoyed!
Make Ahead Options
These One-Bowl Salted Chocolate Chip Cookies are ideal for meal prep, helping you save time for busy weeknights! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix the ingredients as usual and then form the cookie dough balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This ensures they stay fresh and maintain their chewy, soft texture. When you’re ready to bake, just pop the chilled dough straight into the oven, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if needed. With this make-ahead option, you’ll have freshly baked cookies on hand, ready to satisfy your sweet cravings!
Expert Tips for One-Bowl Salted Chocolate Chip Cookies
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Save the Salt: Be careful not to mix all the flaky sea salt into the dough; reserve some for sprinkling on top after baking for optimal flavor.
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Chill the Dough: If you notice your cookies spreading excessively, refrigerate the dough for 15-30 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.
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Watch the Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies while they bake. They can quickly transition from blissfully soft to overbaked, which you want to avoid.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your baking soda is fresh for the best rise in your salted chocolate chip cookies, ensuring that dreamy soft texture.
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Perfect Portions: Use a cookie scoop to ensure consistent sizes for your dough balls, which helps them bake evenly and look beautiful when plated.
What to Serve with One-Bowl Salted Chocolate Chip Cookies?
There’s nothing quite like the cozy feeling of pairing warm baked treats with delightful complements to create a sweet experience.
- Cold Glass of Milk: The classic pairing that enhances the rich chocolate flavors, adding a creamy balance to the salty edges.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve your cookies alongside a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream for a heavenly combo that melts in your mouth.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy seasonal fruits provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, enhancing every bite.
- Sea Salt Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel on top for an indulgent dessert that takes your salted chocolate chip cookies to new heights.
- Chocolate Ganache Dip: Add a decadent touch by presenting melted ganache for dipping, making each cookie moment extra luxurious.
- Espresso or Coffee: The robust flavors of coffee offset the sweetness beautifully, making this pairing perfect for an afternoon treat or dessert.
For a truly delightful gathering, set up a cookie bar that invites everyone to mingle and enjoy the simple joys of great food together.
How to Store and Freeze Salted Chocolate Chip Cookies
Room Temperature: Store your cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their chewy texture.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer lifespan, keep them in the fridge for up to 10 days, but be aware they may dry out a bit.
Freezer: To enjoy these delightful salted chocolate chip cookies later, freeze them in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back that freshly baked goodness!
Salted Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these salted chocolate chip cookies truly your own—your taste buds will thank you!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with margarine or coconut oil for a deliciously dairy-free version. You’ll still enjoy that rich, buttery flavor without the dairy.
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Nutty Delight: Add in chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch that complements the soft, chewy texture beautifully. A hint of nutty goodness elevates each bite, making them even more irresistible.
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Flavored Extracts: Swap out the vanilla extract for almond, hazelnut, or even coconut extract to give your cookies a unique twist. You’ll surprise your friends and family with unexpected deliciousness!
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Chocolate Variations: Alternate semisweet chocolate chips with dark, milk, or even white chocolate for different flavor experiences. Each type will bring its own charm, so experiment to find your favorite!
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Nut Butter Swirl: Fold in a couple of tablespoons of peanut butter or almond butter for an extra creamy, nutty twist that adds depth to the cookie. The combination of chocolate and nut butter is always a crowd-pleaser!
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Spicy Kick: For a subtle heat, add a dash of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough. The warmth against the sweet and salty notes creates a beautifully balanced flavor.
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Frozen Treats: Freeze the cookie dough balls before baking, then enjoy fresh cookies anytime by popping them straight from the freezer into the oven. Consider serving them warm next to a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgent experience.
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Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water). It binds the ingredients perfectly, keeping the cookies soft and chewy, just like the original.
Now, if you’re looking for more cookie inspiration, check out my Fudgy Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownies—they’re another delightful way to enjoy chocolate!
Salted Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of butter should I use for these cookies?
Absolutely! Unsalted butter is recommended for this recipe, as it allows you to control the saltiness of the cookies. If you need a dairy-free option, margarine works well as a substitute.
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How do I know if my chocolate chips are fresh?
Very! Check your chocolate chips for any signs of discoloration or an off smell. Fresh chocolate chips should be shiny and have a rich cocoa aroma. If they look dull or have a bitter scent, it’s best to replace them.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! To freeze the cookie dough, scoop the individual cookie balls onto a lined baking sheet and freeze them for about 1 hour until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time!
How should I store leftover cookies?
After letting the cookies cool completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep their wonderful texture. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 10 days, though they might dry out slightly. For the best taste, I recommend enjoying them fresh!
Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free flour blend that measures the same as all-purpose flour. Be sure to also check that your baking powder and any other ingredients are gluten-free, particularly if gluten is a concern for dietary restrictions.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find your cookies spreading excessively during baking, try chilling the dough for 15-30 minutes before scooping it onto the baking sheet. This will help firm up the butter, preventing them from spreading too much in the oven and ensuring you get that perfect chewy texture!
Irresistibly Soft Salted Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine melted unsalted butter with light brown and granulated sugars in a large mixing bowl until smooth and glossy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, stirring until well combined to create a thick, shiny batter.
- Gradually fold in flour, nonfat milk powder, kosher salt, baking powder, and baking soda, mixing gently.
- Fold in semisweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Portion the dough into golf ball-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced 2-3 inches apart.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the tops of each cookie dough ball.
- Bake the cookies for 9-11 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the centers are slightly underbaked.
- Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
