Hershey's Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to Deliciousness

Hershey's chocolate chips are a staple in many a baker's pantry, and for good reason. Their rich, melty goodness elevates any chocolate chip cookie to a new level of deliciousness. This article will guide you through creating the perfect Hershey's chocolate chip cookies, from ingredient selection to baking tips and tricks. We'll cover everything you need to know to bake cookies worthy of even the most discerning chocolate lover.

Ingredients for the Perfect Hershey's Chocolate Chip Cookies

Before you start, gather these ingredients. Accurate measurements are key to achieving that perfect texture and flavor.

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter is crucial for proper creaming with the sugar. Don't melt it!
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and structure.
• 1 cup packed brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deeper molasses flavor.
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure of the cookie.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: The leavening agent, ensuring light and fluffy cookies.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 2 cups Hershey's chocolate chips: The star of the show! Feel free to experiment with different types of Hershey's chocolate chips, like milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even a combination.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Baking the Perfect Cookies

Follow these steps carefully for the best results:

1. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is best done with an electric mixer.
2. Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
3. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chocolate chips: Gently fold in the Hershey's chocolate chips.
6. Chill the dough (optional but recommended): Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking, resulting in thicker, chewier cookies.
7. Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
8. Scoop and bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
9. Bake for 9-11 minutes: Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft.
10. Cool and enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips and Variations for Elevated Hershey's Chocolate Chip Cookies

• For chewier cookies: Use more brown sugar and chill the dough.
• For crispier cookies: Use less brown sugar and bake for a few minutes longer.
• Add nuts: Walnuts, pecans, or macadamia nuts add a delightful crunch.
• Add other ingredients: Get creative! Try adding pretzels, dried cranberries, or white chocolate chips.
• Use different types of Hershey's chocolate: Experiment with different Hershey's chocolate varieties for unique flavor profiles.

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By following this comprehensive guide, you'll be well on your way to baking the most delicious Hershey's chocolate chip cookies! Enjoy!