There’s nothing quite like the warm, gooey embrace of a freshly baked cookie, but when that cookie is a Giant Chocolate Chip Cookie, it takes comfort food to an entirely new level. Picture this: the rich scent of melting chocolate fills the air as you pull these beauties from the oven, their golden edges perfectly crisp while the center remains soft and chewy. I discovered this simple recipe during a cozy weekend at home, and it turned into an instant family favorite.
With just a handful of ingredients and about 30 minutes to spare, you can impress anyone—whether you’re satisfying a late-night craving or bringing a delightful dessert to a gathering. The combination of buttery richness, crunchy walnuts, and decadent chocolate chips creates an irresistible treat that will have your loved ones coming back for more. So, dust off your mixing bowl and preheat your oven—let’s make the best Giant Chocolate Chip Cookie that’s guaranteed to transform your everyday baking into something extraordinary!
Why is this the Best Giant Chocolate Chip Cookie?
Unparalleled Flavors: The blend of rich butter and brown sugar elevates this cookie to a whole new level.
Simple Guidelines: With just 30 minutes total time, even novice bakers can create this masterpiece!
Crowd-Pleasing Size: Who could resist a warm, giant cookie? It’s perfect for sharing at parties or indulging yourself.
Versatile Pairing: Enjoy it alone or sandwich it with homemade vanilla bean ice cream for an extra special treat.
Texture Perfection: This cookie features a crisp outer layer while remaining delightfully chewy in the center.
Best Giant Chocolate Chip Cookie Ingredients
• Gather these ingredients to create the ultimate treat!
For the Cookie Base
- 2 ⅔ cup all-purpose flour – This is the foundation that gives your cookie structure.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch – Adding cornstarch ensures your cookie remains soft and chewy.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – This helps the cookies rise beautifully in the oven.
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda – A crucial element that contributes to the perfect texture.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt – Enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
For the Sweetness
- 1 cup butter softened – Butter provides richness; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- ¾ cup brown sugar packed – This adds a deep, molasses-like flavor that is irresistible.
- ½ cup sugar – Granulated sugar gives the cookie its delightful crispness.
For the Egg Mixture
- 2 eggs – Eggs add moisture and help bind everything together for optimal structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Elevates the flavor profile, bringing warmth and coziness to your cookie.
For Added Crunch and Decadence
- 2 cups walnuts coarsely chopped – These lend a satisfying crunch and a nutty flavor to your cookies.
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips – The star of the show! Choose high-quality chips for the best chocolatey experience, ensuring they’re melted and gooey in every bite.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to bake the Best Giant Chocolate Chip Cookie that will leave everyone swooning!
How to Make the Best Giant Chocolate Chip Cookie
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Preheat the oven to 400°F and line your baking sheets with parchment paper; this will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
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Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl: combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt. This ensures even distribution and prepares for delightful texture.
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Cream the butter and sugars in a separate bowl using a mixer; whisk them together until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. This step is key for a rich flavor.
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Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, whisking well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined, infusing your dough with warmth.
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Combine the flour mixture with the wet ingredients, beating on low speed until everything is just mixed. You want to avoid overworking the dough for maximum chewiness!
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Fold in the walnuts and chocolate chips gently with a spatula. This should create a delightful pocket of chocolatey goodness in every bite!
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Scoop generous amounts of dough using large ice cream scoops to shape 12 giant cookies. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space in between each one.
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Bake on the center rack for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden; you want them soft, so don’t overbake!
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Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes. They are best enjoyed warm, or try them sandwiched with homemade vanilla bean ice cream for an unforgettable treat.
Optional: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before serving for an elevated sweet-salty flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Best Giant Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep and can save you precious time during busy weeks! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all ingredients and then scooping the dough balls onto your lined baking sheets. Simply cover the sheets tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When it’s time to bake, you can either let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking or bake them straight from the fridge—just add an extra minute or two to the cook time for the best results. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, warm cookies just as if they were freshly made!
What to Serve with Giant Chocolate Chip Cookie?
Delight your senses and create an unforgettable meal with these perfect pairings.
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Homemade Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: The creamy, cool texture beautifully complements the warm, chewy cookie for a classic dessert experience. A scoop tucked between two cookies is an indulgence that no one can resist.
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Coffee or Espresso: The rich, bold flavors of coffee enhance the sweetness of the cookie, making for a delightful pick-me-up. Sip on a warm cup while enjoying your treat for a cozy moment.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing tartness that balances the richness of the cookie. They provide a lovely contrast and keep the dessert feeling light and inviting.
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Chocolate Milk: A nostalgic favorite, this creamy beverage pairs perfectly with a giant cookie, enhancing its chocolatey goodness. Let the kids dip their cookies while sipping on this sweet treat for a fun experience.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over your cookie takes it to a whole new level of decadent indulgence. The sweetness and richness meld beautifully with the chocolate and nuts.
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Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some nutty granola on top of your cookie for added crunch and flavor. Its earthy taste pairs effortlessly with the chocolate and walnut combination.
Elevate your Giant Chocolate Chip Cookies with these delightful pairings that create a cozy, satisfying experience for all!
Tips for the Best Giant Chocolate Chip Cookie
- Perfect Texture: Use softened butter, not melted, to achieve the right consistency. This ensures your cookies are rich and chewy, avoiding a greasy outcome.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix your dry and wet ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies rather than the soft, chewy texture we want in the best Giant Chocolate Chip Cookie.
- Chill the Dough: If time permits, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. It enhances the flavor and prevents spreading, giving you perfectly shaped cookies.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Invest in high-quality chocolate chips and fresh walnuts to maximize flavor. The better the ingredients, the more delicious your cookies will be!
- Watch Your Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. Take them out when they are slightly golden on the edges but still soft in the center for that mouthwatering chewy bite.
- Customize: Feel free to swap walnuts for your favorite nuts or add in some caramel pieces for an exciting twist to the classic best Giant Chocolate Chip Cookie!
How to Store and Freeze Best Giant Chocolate Chip Cookie
Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their soft, chewy texture.
Fridge: If you want to extend freshness, store them in the fridge for up to a week, but let them come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, add a couple of minutes to your baking time for the best Giant Chocolate Chip Cookie.
Reheating: For warm cookies, microwave for 10-15 seconds, or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
Best Giant Chocolate Chip Cookie Variations
Feel free to personalize your baking experience with these delightful twists!
- Nut-Free: Omit walnuts and replace with an equal amount of extra chocolate chips for a double-chocolate treat.
- Oatmeal Boost: Add 1 cup of rolled oats for a wholesome chewiness that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter along with dairy-free chocolate chips for a tasty vegan alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a dash of cayenne pepper for a surprising flavor depth that warms the soul.
- Mini Treats: For smaller bites, use a tablespoon to scoop out dough, making about 24 mini cookies that are perfect for sharing.
- Minty Fresh: Add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and swap some chocolate chips for crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch.
- Caramel Surprise: Fold in 1 cup of caramel bits alongside chocolate chips for a gooey, dreamy texture that melts in your mouth.
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a cookie that’s friendly to all dietary needs.
With these variations, you can explore and enjoy the best Giant Chocolate Chip Cookie in countless ways!
Best Giant Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ingredients for my cookies?
Absolutely! Opt for high-quality, fresh ingredients. Look for all-purpose flour that’s not past its expiration date, and make sure your butter is softened but not melted to maintain the perfect texture. When selecting chocolate chips, go for semisweet or dark varieties for a more decadent flavor, and choose walnuts that are free from dark spots for the best crunch.
How should I store leftover cookies?
To keep your Best Giant Chocolate Chip Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll maintain their delightful chewiness, making each bite as satisfying as the first! If you want to enjoy them longer, keep them in the fridge for up to a week. Just let them warm to room temperature before indulging again!
Can I freeze cookie dough? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your cookie dough! Simply scoop out the dough into individual balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Flash freeze them for about an hour, then transfer the cookie dough balls into an airtight bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and add a couple of minutes to your baking time!
What do I do if my cookies come out too dry?
If your cookies turn out dry, it may be due to overmixing the dough or baking them too long. Make sure to just mix until combined and watch them closely as they bake—ideal baking should leave them slightly golden at the edges while soft in the center. If your cookies do become dry, serve them with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce to bring back some moisture!
Are there any allergy considerations to keep in mind?
Certainly! This recipe contains common allergens like butter, eggs, and walnuts. If you’re baking for someone with allergies, feel free to substitute with dairy-free butter or egg replacements such as applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water. Additionally, you can swap walnuts for allergy-friendly options like seeds or simply omit them for those with nut sensitivities.
Can I adjust the size of the cookies?
Very much so! If you prefer smaller cookies, simply use a tablespoon to scoop out the dough instead of the large ice cream scoop. Bake them for approximately 8-10 minutes, keeping an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake. The flavor remains divine no matter the size!
The Best Giant Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe for Perfect Treats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl: combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt.
- Cream the butter and sugars in a separate bowl using a mixer until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Incorporate the eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, whisking well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Combine the flour mixture with the wet ingredients, beating on low speed until everything is just mixed.
- Fold in the walnuts and chocolate chips gently with a spatula.
- Scoop generous amounts of dough using large ice cream scoops to shape 12 giant cookies.
- Bake on the center rack for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden.
- Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes.