Description
These classic Chocolate Chunk Cookies are perfectly soft and chewy with a tender crumb, loaded with semi-sweet chocolate chunks for a rich, indulgent treat. The addition of cornstarch ensures a tender texture, while a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top enhances the chocolate flavors beautifully. Ideal for cookie lovers looking for an easy homemade favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 Tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
Chocolate & Toppings
- 11.5 ounce bag semi-sweet chocolate chunks (divided use)
- Flaky sea salt, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line sheet trays with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and fine sea salt until evenly combined. Set this mixture aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or using a hand mixer in a bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated sugar and light brown sugar for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure full incorporation. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the previously mixed dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring slowly until just combined. Scrape the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is mixed evenly.
- Reserve Chocolate Chunks: Set aside ½ cup of the semi-sweet chocolate chunks for topping later.
- Mix Remaining Chocolate Chunks: Fold the rest of the chocolate chunks into the cookie dough until evenly distributed.
- Portion the Dough: Divide the dough into 18 equal portions, approximately 2.5 ounces (70 grams) each.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll each portion between your hands to form a smooth ball, then place them on the prepared sheet trays, spacing them about 4 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Add Toppings: Top each cookie ball with about 3 reserved chocolate chunks, gently pressing them slightly into the dough.
- Bake: Bake one sheet at a time for 12-13 minutes. The cookies should be puffed, not appear moist in the centers, and show very light browning on the edges.
- Finish and Cool: Immediately after removing from the oven, sprinkle the cookies with flaky sea salt if desired. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the sheet trays before transferring or serving.
Notes
- Using cornstarch in the dough helps create a tender, soft texture.
- Baking one sheet at a time ensures even heat distribution and consistent baking results.
- Flaky sea salt is optional but enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully.
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for proper creaming with sugars.
- Do not overbake; cookies will continue to firm up slightly as they cool on the tray.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-13 minutes per sheet
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Chocolate Chunk Cookies, Soft Chocolate Cookies, Classic Cookies, Homemade Cookies, Semi-Sweet Chocolate Cookies
