Chocolate Chip Cookies

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat and prepare the tray

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) with fan.

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream the butter and sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the brown sugar and white sugar until creamy and well combined.

Add the egg and vanilla extract. Beat again until the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Add the dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Sift this mixture over the butter mixture, then fold gently with a spatula using an under-and-over motion. Stop as soon as the flour is incorporated — do not overmix.

Step 4: Add the chocolate chips

Add the chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate) and fold quickly to distribute evenly.

Step 5: Chill the dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight is ideal).

Step 6: Shape the cookies

Using a cookie scoop or two tablespoons, form dough balls of about 40 g each.

Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 5 cm apart (the cookies will spread during baking).

Step 7: Bake

Bake the trays one at a time (or both if your oven allows with fan) for 10 to 12 minutes.

The edges should be golden brown while the center is still pale and soft.

Step 8: Cool and enjoy

Let the cookies rest on the tray for 5 minutes (they continue baking), then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy them warm for a gooey center, or at room temperature. They keep for up to 5 days in an airtight container.