Easy 5-Ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookies: How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookies in Just 20 Minutes

The Ultimate Guide on How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookies with Just 5 Ingredients

Learning how to make chocolate chip cookies has never been easier than with this simple 5-ingredient recipe. These homemade treats strike the perfect balance between buttery richness and chocolatey goodness, making them an ideal choice for both novice bakers and seasoned cookie enthusiasts.

Why You’ll Love These Simple Chocolate Chip Cookies

When cookie cravings strike, the last thing you want is a complicated recipe with a long list of ingredients. These delicious cookies require just 5 pantry staples and come together in a single bowl, minimizing cleanup while maximizing flavor. In just 20 minutes, you’ll be enjoying warm, freshly baked cookies with perfectly melted chocolate chips.

The Secret to Perfect 5-Ingredient Chocolate Chip Cookies

What makes these cookies special is their simplicity. The concentrated flavor from brown sugar creates depth and moisture that more complex recipes often miss. The minimal ingredient list allows each component to shine, especially the butter and chocolate chips.

Ingredients for Easy Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies

• 1½ cups brown sugar (packed for best results)
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or cooking spray
• Cookie scoop (optional but helpful)

Step-by-Step: How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookies from Scratch

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper or a light coating of cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well incorporated.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, stirring well after each addition until the mixture becomes light and slightly fluffy.
4. Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined. Tip: Don’t overmix! This can make your cookies tough.
5. Fold in the chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
6. Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing cookies about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are just turning golden brown but the centers still look slightly soft.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for the Best Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe

• Room temperature eggs incorporate better into the batter, creating a more uniform texture.
• For chewier cookies, slightly underbake them by taking them out when the edges are set but the centers still look a bit underdone.
• For crispier edges, flatten the dough balls slightly before baking.
• Mix up the chocolate: Try a combination of semi-sweet, milk, and dark chocolate chips for more complex flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

These simple chocolate chip cookies stay fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, the dough can be frozen in balls for up to 3 months – just add an extra minute to the baking time when cooking from frozen.

Nutritional Information

Each cookie contains approximately: 181 calories, 10g fat (6g saturated), 21g carbohydrates (8g sugars), 1g fiber, 3g protein, 36mg cholesterol, and 63mg sodium.

Why This Easy Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe Works Every Time

The beauty of this 5-ingredient approach is its reliability. With fewer components, there’s less that can go wrong, making this an excellent choice for beginner bakers. The high ratio of brown sugar contributes to a perfectly chewy texture with caramelized edges that are irresistible.

Frequently Asked Questions About Making Chocolate Chip Cookies

Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?

While you can substitute white sugar, brown sugar contains molasses which adds moisture and a deeper flavor to your cookies. If using white sugar, consider adding a tablespoon of molasses to maintain that rich taste.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

Overly spread cookies typically result from butter that’s too warm or too little flour. Make sure your dough isn’t too warm when it goes into the oven, and measure flour correctly by spooning it into measuring cups rather than scooping directly.

Can I add other mix-ins to this recipe?

Absolutely! This base recipe works wonderfully with chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even crushed candy. Just keep the total amount of mix-ins to about 2 cups.

Mastering how to make chocolate chip cookies is a skill that brings joy to any kitchen. This 5-ingredient version proves that sometimes simplicity leads to the most delicious results. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just satisfying a sweet tooth, these easy cookies deliver homemade comfort in every bite.