
There are moments when the craving for something sweet and homemade strikes but time or patience is short. This easy five ingredient chocolate chip cookie recipe has saved the day for me more times than I can count. You get warm gooey cookies fresh from the oven in hardly any time at all and with just the basics you already have in your kitchen.
The first time I made these cookies I was in a rush before movie night with my friends. They disappeared within minutes and the recipe became a go to whenever I want homemade cookies without the fuss.
Ingredients
- Brown sugar: gives a deep caramel flavor and chews up perfectly. Choose light or dark brown sugar for different intensity
- Butter: adds richness and helps with that soft texture. Use real unsalted butter for the best taste
- Eggs: hold everything together and ensure a tender crumb. Farm fresh eggs make these cookies even richer
- All purpose flour: gives structure to the cookies. Sift it for a smoother dough and fluffier results
- Chocolate chips: bring those melty puddles of chocolate in every bite. Use good quality chips or chop up a favorite chocolate bar for even more flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Measure and Prepare Ingredients:
- Set out all your ingredients to come to room temperature as this helps them blend smoothly with minimal mixing
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- Beat the softened butter with the brown sugar using a whisk or wooden spoon for about three minutes until light and fluffy. This step creates that irresistible cookie texture
- Mix in the Eggs:
- Add the eggs one at a time mixing well after each addition. Make sure there are no streaks left in the batter
- Add Flour:
- Fold in the sifted flour gently just until combined. Overmixing will make the cookies tough so stop as soon as you no longer see dry bits
- Stir in Chocolate Chips:
- Pour in the chocolate chips and stir gently so each cookie will be dotted with chocolate throughout
- Scoop and Shape:
- Spoon out even balls of dough onto a lined baking tray leaving enough space between cookies to let them spread as they bake
- Bake:
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for about twelve to fifteen minutes. Look for golden edges and slightly soft centers. Do not overbake to keep them chewy
- Cool and Enjoy:
- Let the cookies cool on the tray for five minutes before moving them to a rack. Enjoy them warm for gooey chocolate or let them cool for crispier edges

Chocolate chips are always the star in this recipe for me. There is something comforting about watching them melt into the dough and catch the light when you break a cookie in half. These cookies became our Sunday treat tradition and everyone loves how the chocolate puddles up every time.
Storage Tips
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want fresh baked taste later warm them for ten seconds in the microwave. For longer storage freeze the baked cookies or the raw dough scooped in balls so you can bake just the amount you crave any time.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you run out of brown sugar swap with white sugar plus a spoonful of molasses for similar flavor. Dairy free butter works well for lactose intolerance. Try chopped dark chocolate instead of chips for a bittersweet twist or add a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cookies with a glass of cold milk or alongside coffee for a classic pick me up. They also make great ice cream sandwich bases. Stack a few on a plate with fresh berries for a simple last minute dessert plate at gatherings.
Cultural Moments with Cookies
Chocolate chip cookies are a timeless comfort food with roots in American kitchens. What I love is how this simple recipe brings people together whether you share it with family or neighbors. Even with just five ingredients you tap into a tradition of homemade generosity and everyday celebration.

Common Questions
- → How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough briefly before baking and avoid over-softened butter to help cookies maintain shape.
- → Can I use white sugar instead of brown sugar?
Brown sugar adds chewiness and depth, but white sugar can be used; texture may be less soft.
- → What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days to retain freshness.
- → Can I add nuts to the dough?
Yes, chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans can be gently folded into the dough for extra crunch.
- → How do I know when the cookies are baked?
Cookies are done when golden at the edges with a soft center that will set as they cool on the tray.