The Ultimate Nestlé Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe: A Classic American Favorite

 Few treats are as universally loved as a warm, freshly-baked chocolate chip cookie. Whether you're enjoying one with a glass of cold milk, sharing them with friends and family, or sneaking a bite after dinner, chocolate chip cookies always hit the spot. And when it comes to the gold standard of these treats, Nestlé's Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe reigns supreme.


Close-Up of Gooey Cookie:


Today, we're going to dive into how to make this iconic cookie, breaking down the steps so that even beginner bakers can confidently follow along. But first, let’s explore a bit of history and why this particular recipe has such a lasting legacy in American kitchens.

A Brief History of the Nestlé Chocolate Chip Cookie

The original Nestlé Toll House cookie recipe dates back to the 1930s, created by Ruth Wakefield at the Toll House Inn in Whitman, Massachusetts. Wakefield's accidental discovery (she was trying to make chocolate cookies but the chocolate chunks didn’t melt!) turned into a national sensation, and soon after, Nestlé began printing the recipe on their chocolate chip packaging. Decades later, this recipe remains one of the most beloved and reliable cookie recipes in the country.

Why Nestlé's Chocolate Chip Cookies Are So Popular

There are many cookie recipes out there, but what makes the Nestlé Toll House version so special?

  • Perfect Texture: A balance between soft and chewy in the center with just the right amount of crisp around the edges.
  • Classic Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate chips with vanilla-infused dough creates a nostalgic taste that’s hard to beat.
  • Easy to Make: With simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, it's straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy techniques.

So, without further ado, let’s get into the recipe itself!

Ingredients for Nestlé Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ingredients Lay Flat
Here’s what you’ll need to make about 5 dozen cookies, or roughly 60 cookies. Feel free to halve the recipe if you don't need quite that many (or freeze some dough for future batches!).

  • 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon of baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup of granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup of packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cups (12 oz) of Nestlé Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels
  • 1 cup of chopped nuts (optional) – walnuts or pecans work well

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Nestlé Chocolate Chip Cookies

Mixing Cookie Dough


Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Before you do anything, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect texture every time.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir well to make sure these ingredients are evenly distributed. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is creamy. This process usually takes about 2-3 minutes using a hand or stand mixer on medium speed. You’ll want to scrape down the sides of the bowl a few times to ensure everything blends smoothly.

Step 4: Add the Eggs

Add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps to incorporate the eggs into the dough and makes the cookies light and airy.

Step 5: Gradually Add Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the flour mixture from step 2 into the wet mixture, beating on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate Chips (and Nuts)

Cookie Dough Balls on Tray:


Using a spatula, gently fold in the Nestlé Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels. If you're adding nuts, stir those in as well. Make sure the chips and nuts are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Scoop the Dough onto Baking Sheets

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This gives the cookies room to spread as they bake.

Step 8: Bake

Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center. For chewier cookies, aim for the lower end of the baking time range.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Once the cookies are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 2 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. If you can’t wait, feel free to enjoy one (or two!) while they’re still warm and the chocolate is gooey.

Tips for Making the Best Nestlé Chocolate Chip Cookies

Freshly Baked Cookies Cooling:


  • Room Temperature Butter: Using butter that’s softened but not melted ensures a better texture. If the butter is too cold, it won't cream properly with the sugar, and if it's too warm, the cookies will spread too much.
  • Chill the Dough (Optional): For even thicker, chewier cookies, you can refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to an hour before baking. This also intensifies the flavors.
  • Don’t Overbake: Remember, the cookies will continue to cook slightly even after you remove them from the oven. It’s okay if the center looks a little underdone when you take them out—they’ll firm up as they cool.

Storing Your Nestlé Chocolate Chip Cookies

Cookies Served with Milk:


These cookies store beautifully, making them perfect for preparing in advance or keeping for a few days after baking (if they last that long!). Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

If you want to make a big batch and save some for later, you can also freeze the dough. Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet as you would if you were going to bake them, but instead of putting them in the oven, freeze the dough balls. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag and keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for fresh cookies, pop them straight into the oven from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Stack of Cookies 

Conclusion

Nestlé’s Toll House chocolate chip cookie recipe has earned its place in American kitchens for good reason. The cookies are timeless, reliable, and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion, giving them as gifts, or simply enjoying a sweet treat at home, this recipe is a must-have in your baking repertoire. So, go ahead, gather your ingredients, and start baking—your perfect batch of chocolate chip cookies is just minutes away!

FAQs About Nestlé Chocolate Chip Cookies

  1. Can I substitute butter with margarine in this recipe? Yes, you can substitute butter with margarine, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the cookies may change slightly. Butter gives the cookies a richer taste.

  2. Why did my cookies spread too much? If your cookies spread too much, it could be because the butter was too soft or melted when you started. Try chilling the dough before baking to help with this.

  3. Can I make these cookies without eggs? Yes, you can use egg substitutes like flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or applesauce, but the texture may differ slightly.

  4. What can I use instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips? You can swap semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips for a fun twist.

  5. How can I make the cookies chewier? For chewier cookies, try reducing the baking time by a minute or two and use more brown sugar than white sugar. You can also chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.


Cookies & Desserts, Baking Recipes, Classic Recipes, American Desserts, Comfort Food, Homemade Treats, Family-Friendly Recipes, Sweet Snacks, Beginner Baking, Favorite Recipes
 
#ChocolateChipCookies #NestleTollHouse #CookieRecipe #BakingAtHome #HomemadeCookies
#ClassicCookies #CookieLovers #DessertIdeas #BakingFromScratch #SweetTreats #ComfortFood
#BakingInspiration #ChocolateLovers #EasyBaking #FoodBloggers #CookiesAndMilk #RecipeOfTheDay #BakedWithLove #FoodPhotography #KitchenAdventures

Comments