The Delicious History of Chocolate Chip Cookies

Chocolate chip cookies are a beloved treat that have a rich history dating back to the 1930s. Here is a brief overview of the history of chocolate chip cookies, as well as a recipe for you to try at home.

The Origins of the Chocolate Chip Cookie

The chocolate chip cookie was invented by Ruth Graves Wakefield, who owned the Toll House Inn in Massachusetts. In the 1930s, Wakefield ran a popular restaurant that served a variety of baked goods, including cookies. One day, she decided to add chopped up pieces of chocolate to her regular sugar cookie dough, hoping that the chocolate would melt and create a rich, chocolatey flavor.

To Wakefield's surprise, the chocolate pieces did not melt and became gooey and delicious. She named the new cookie the "Toll House Chocolate Crunch Cookie," and it quickly became a hit with her guests.

Wakefield's recipe for chocolate chip cookies became even more popular after it was published in a 1938 edition of the Boston Herald. From there, the recipe spread like wildfire, and chocolate chip cookies became a household favorite all across the United States.

Today, chocolate chip cookies are enjoyed by people of all ages and are a staple at bake sales, parties, and holiday gatherings.

Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe

Now, for the recipe! Here is a classic chocolate chip cookie recipe that is sure to please:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until well combined.
6. Stir in the chocolate chips.
7. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy!