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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until combined.
- Fold in any optional mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
- Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 5: Enjoy!
- Serve warm with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Tips for Perfect Cookies
- Use Room Temperature Butter – Soft butter blends more evenly.
- Don’t Overmix – Overmixing can make cookies dense instead of soft.
- Chill the Dough – For thicker cookies, refrigerate the dough for 15 minutes before baking.
- Experiment with Flavors – Try adding citrus zest, coconut, or different extracts like almond or maple.
- Watch the Baking Time – Check cookies at the 10-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
Fun Variations
1. Chocolate Lover’s Delight
- Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
- Mix in dark chocolate chunks for a richer flavor.
2. Peanut Butter Bliss
- Replace half the butter with peanut butter.
- Press with a fork before baking for a classic crisscross pattern.
3. Oatmeal Raisin Classic
- Swap half the flour for rolled oats.
- Add 1/2 cup raisins and a dash of cinnamon.
4. Holiday Spice Cookies
- Add 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves.
- Drizzle with icing for a festive touch.
Serving Suggestions
- With Ice Cream – Sandwich a scoop of ice cream between two cookies.
- Dipped in Chocolate – Dip half the cookie in melted chocolate and let set.
- Crumbled Over Yogurt – Sprinkle crushed cookies on yogurt or pudding.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate Dough – Prepare the dough in advance and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for Later – Roll dough into balls and freeze for quick baking later.
- Store Baked Cookies – Keep in an airtight container at room temperature.
Conclusion
This easiest cookie recipe proves that homemade treats don’t have to be complicated. With basic ingredients, simple steps, and endless customization options, you can whip up a batch of delicious cookies anytime. Whether you prefer classic chocolate chip, nutty variations, or holiday-inspired flavors, this recipe serves as the perfect base.
So, preheat that oven and get baking! These cookies are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth and bring joy to any occasion. Happy baking!
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