Go Back
A top-down flat lay showing six different stacks of simple homemade cookies, illustrating the variety possible with one base recipe.

Easy Cookie Recipes You Can Make Today (and Master Forever!)

Discover the ultimate easy cookie recipe perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike. This foolproof guide delivers delicious, chewy cookies every time and includes fun variations.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Total Time 26 minutes
Servings: 36 cookies
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Equipment

  • 1 Electric mixer
  • 2 Baking sheets
  • 2 Mixing bowls

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix. Cover and chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
  5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  6. Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared sheets, about 2 inches apart. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For perfectly uniform cookies, use a medium cookie scoop.
Do not skip the chilling step! This prevents the cookies from spreading too much and deepens the flavor.
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.