Who can resist the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies? Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, sometimes you just want a basic, no-fuss cookie recipe that delivers soft, chewy, and golden cookies every single time. This super easy cookie recipe requires just a few pantry ingredients, minimal prep, and zero stress!
Ingredients
✔ 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (adds richness & softness!)
✔ 1 cup granulated sugar (for the perfect level of sweetness!)
✔ 1 large egg (helps bind everything together!)
✔ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (adds warmth & depth!)
✔ 2 cups all-purpose flour (creates the perfect cookie structure!)
✔ ½ teaspoon baking soda (helps the cookies rise slightly!)
✔ ¼ teaspoon salt (balances the flavors!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat & Prepare the Baking Sheet
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2️⃣ Cream the Butter & Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
3️⃣ Mix in Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring just until combined.
4️⃣ Scoop & Shape the Cookies
- Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to drop dough balls onto the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- For chewier cookies, chill the dough for 15–30 minutes before baking. (Optional but recommended!)
5️⃣ Bake to Golden Perfection
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are light golden brown but the centers are still slightly soft.
- Remove from the oven and let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
How to Customize This Simple Cookie Recipe
✔ Add Chocolate Chips or Chunks
✔ Mix in Chopped Nuts (Almonds, Pecans, Walnuts)
✔ Sprinkle Cinnamon for a Warm Flavor Twist
✔ Use Lemon or Orange Zest for a Citrusy Kick
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate Dough: Chill for up to 48 hours before baking.
- Freeze Cookie Dough Balls: Freeze for up to 3 months and bake straight from frozen!
- Store Baked Cookies: Keep in an airtight container at room temp for up to 5 days.
Why You’ll LOVE This Recipe!
✔ No Special Equipment Needed – Just one bowl & a spoon!
✔ Takes Just 10 Minutes to Prep – No long wait times!
✔ Soft, Chewy, & Perfect Every Time – Guaranteed bakery-style cookies!
✔ Perfect Base Recipe for Any Add-Ins – Make it your own!
Enjoy.