Chocolate Chip Cookies

Cookies?!?! Really, Erin? Cookies?!?

Yup.  Because you know what? I love chocolate chip cookies.  I mean, really, who doesn't? However, the way I see it, if you're going to splurge, splurge right.  There is no sense in chomping on that hard-as-a-rock cookie from a box, unless you happen to find it the best cookie ever.  Seriously!  If you're gonna splurge, make it count!

That being said, these are the best chocolate chip cookies ever. I have a soft spot for cookies (especially around the holidays), but I want them to be done right.  It's taken some time, but after trying several recipes and variations of recipes, this is what I believe to be the best chocolate chip cookie recipe... ever. Oh, and did I mention it's easy too? Win win!

Chocolate Chip Cookies 

1 cup butter
3/4 cup sugar 
3/4 cup brown sugar 
2 eggs 
1 tsp baking soda 
1/2 tsp vanilla 
1/2 tsp almond extract
1/2- 3/4 tsp (ish) Himalayan pink salt
2 1/2(ish) cups of flour 
12oz semi-sweet chocolate chips (I like using the mini ones, but I often just use regular because that’s what’s around the house)
Pecans (optional- I’m a classic chococolate chip cookie girl, but I know some of you love nuts) 

Directions: Cream together butter and sugars. (Let the butter warm at room temperature for the love of cookies! Don't microwave! If necessary, speed the process up by covering the butter with a warm glass, but the mixing texture seems to make a difference!) 
Add eggs, mix well. 
Add extracts, salt, and baking soda. (Salt is a thing friend. Get the "good stuff". It's more flavorful and you need less!) 
Slowly add flour 1/2 cup at a time.
Mix in chocolate chips and (optional) pecans. 

Cover, and let sit in refrigerator. 

Bake cookies at 350F for 10-12(ish) minutes.  
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Okay, so if you don't have time to let the cookie dough rest, it's not going to be the end of the world.  However, I find that the dough is easier to work with when slightly chilled.

But the real secret sauce is the time they are in the oven.  I said 10-12(ish) minutes, but there are sometimes I leave them in for 9... or 15!  The chewiness is all about what the cookies look like when removed from the oven. Cookies should be browned on the edges but still look slightly soft in the middle/on top.  After removing, let the cookies cool on the pan slightly before moving to a wire rack. If you try to move them right away you may think they aren’t don'e yet. If they are brown around the bottom edges, they’re done. Even if they look soft in the middle. It may take some time to "see" the timing, but when removed at the opportune time you will have, what I believe is the perfect chocolate chip cookie.
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So there you have it.  The perfect chocolate chip cookie (In my humble opinion).  There is nothing wrong with treats in moderation, just remember when you're treating yourself, don't settle for less than the best.  

BONUS RESOURCES

Pumpkin-Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies
Is It Worth It?
Sugar-Free Cookie Dough Bites