Growing up, the smell of fresh chocolate chip cookies filled our kitchen. Those golden edges and gooey centers were more than treats. They were moments of comfort. Today, I’m excited to share a classic Hershey chocolate chip cookie recipe. It turns simple ingredients into a delicious homemade dessert.
Whether you’re new to baking or have been doing it for years, this recipe is for you. It’s easy to make and yields 24 delicious cookies. Each cookie is packed with two whole cups of Hershey’s milk chocolate chips.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Perfect for beginner bakers
- Uses classic Hershey’s milk chocolate chips
- Yields 24 delicious cookies
- Quick preparation time
- Versatile recipe with optional variations
Why Hershey’s Chocolate Makes the Perfect Cookie
Hershey’s chocolate is a top choice for making chocolate chip cookies. It has a long history of over a century. This legacy has made it a favorite among both home cooks and professional bakers.
A Sweet Journey Through Time
For over 120 years, Hershey’s chocolate has changed the way we bake. Its focus on quality chocolate chips has made it a key item in many kitchens. Hershey’s offers both milk and semi-sweet chocolate chips for different cookie flavors.
Milk Chocolate vs Semi-Sweet Chips: A Delicious Comparison
| Chocolate Chip Type | Flavor Profile | Best Used For |
|---|---|---|
| Milk Chocolate Chips | Creamy, sweet | Softer, butterier cookies |
| Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips | Intense, rich chocolate | Deeper chocolate flavor |
The Science of Chocolate Melting
To master chocolate chip baking, you need to understand how chocolate melts. Hershey’s chocolate chips are made to keep their shape but melt just right. This perfect melting happens at the ideal baking temperatures.
- Milk chocolate chips give a smoother, butterier texture
- Semi-sweet chips have a stronger chocolate taste
- Right melting makes those chocolate pools in your cookies
Choosing between milk and semi-sweet chocolate chips can change your cookie’s taste. Try both to find your favorite chocolate chip cookie!
Essential Ingredients for Classic Hershey Chocolate Chip Cookies
Making the perfect chocolate chip cookie begins with the right ingredients. Success in baking comes from using top-notch components. Hershey’s chocolate chips are the highlight, adding a rich chocolate taste to each cookie.
Key Dry Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of your cookie structure
- Baking soda: Provides essential leavening
- Salt: Enhances overall flavor profile
You’ll need 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour for the best cookie texture. Baking soda is key for rising and achieving a golden-brown color. Just 1 teaspoon makes a big difference.
Wet Ingredients and Sweeteners
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 1 cup | Provides richness and texture |
| Granulated Sugar | 3/4 cup | Adds sweetness and helps with browning |
| Brown Sugar | 3/4 cup | Creates moisture and depth of flavor |
The secret to these cookies is Hershey’s chocolate chips. Use 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a chocolatey treat. Remember, room temperature eggs and vanilla extract make mixing easier.
Optional Additions
Want to elevate your cookies? Add 1 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch and flavor. The secret to great cookies is using fresh, quality ingredients and precise measurements.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment You’ll Need
To make delicious Hershey chocolate chip cookies, you need the right tools. The right equipment makes baking fun and easy. Here are the essential tools for perfect chocolate chip cookies every time.
Essential Baking Sheets and Mixing Bowls
Start by choosing the right baking sheets and mixing bowls. Look for:
- Heavy-gauge aluminum baking sheets for even heat
- Non-stick or rimmed baking sheets to stop cookies from spreading
- Mixing bowls made of stainless steel or glass, available in a variety of sizes.
- Mixing bowls with non-slip bottoms for stable mixing
Precision Measuring Tools and Mixers
Accurate measuring tools are key for consistent cookies. Invest in:
- Graduated measuring cups for dry and liquid ingredients
- Nested measuring spoon sets
- Digital kitchen scale for precise flour measurements
- Electric stand or hand mixer for blending ingredients efficiently
| Tool Category | Recommended Items | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Measuring Tools | Cups, Spoons, Scale | Ingredient Accuracy |
| Mixing Equipment | Electric Mixer | Ingredient Incorporation |
| Baking Surfaces | Aluminum Sheets | Even Baking |
Optional but Helpful Cookie Baking Accessories
These tools can make your cookie baking better:
- Cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes
- Silicone baking mats for easy cleanup
- Wire cooling rack to prevent soggy bottoms
- Parchment paper for simpler baking
Step-by-Step Hershey Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
Starting a homemade cookie recipe is easy. First, gather your ingredients and learn the baking steps. This Hershey chocolate chip cookie recipe will turn your kitchen into a bakery.
Before you begin, make sure you have all of these ingredients on hand:
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 12 ounces Hershey’s semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
Mixing is key for great cookies. Start by creaming the butter with sugars until it’s light and fluffy. This makes the cookies soft and delicious.
Then, mix in the eggs and vanilla. Add the dry ingredients – flour, baking soda, and salt – slowly. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep cookies soft.
Now, gently add the Hershey’s chocolate chips. Make sure they’re spread evenly. For the best results, chill the dough for at least 3 hours. This helps cookies keep their shape while baking.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) when you’re ready to bake. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, leaving space between cookies. Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are golden.
Pro tip: Cool cookies on the sheet for a few minutes before moving them to a wire rack. This helps them set and keeps them soft.
Mixing Techniques for Perfect Cookie Dough
Making the perfect cookie dough needs precision and careful technique. Learning the right mixing methods can make your homemade chocolate chip cookies amazing. Let’s look at the essential steps to get cookie dough just right.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
The base of great cookie dough starts with creaming butter and sugar. This step makes your cookies light and fluffy. Here’s how to do it:
- Use room temperature butter (around 65-70°F)
- Beat butter and sugar for 3-4 minutes until light and creamy
- Gently scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is mixed evenly.
Professional bakers say using a kitchen scale is key. It helps you get the right amount of flour, about 170 grams per cup, for the perfect texture.
Incorporating Dry Ingredients
When adding dry ingredients, follow these steps:
- Sift flour, baking soda, and salt together
- Add dry ingredients gradually to prevent clumping
- Mix on low speed to avoid overmixing
Adding Chocolate Chips
The last step is adding Hershey’s chocolate chips. Here’s how to mix them in evenly:
- Fold chips in by hand using a spatula
- Use 1 1/2 cups (10 oz) of Hershey’s semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Mix just until chips are evenly distributed
| Mixing Stage | Key Technique | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Creaming Butter/Sugar | Room temp butter, high-speed mixing | 3-4 minutes |
| Adding Dry Ingredients | Low-speed mixing, gradual addition | 1-2 minutes |
| Chocolate Chip Incorporation | Gentle folding by hand | 30-45 seconds |
The secret to perfect cookie dough is gentle handling and precise mixing. Take your time and enjoy making delicious homemade cookies!
Baking Temperature and Timing Guidelines
To get the perfect cookies, you need the right oven temperature and timing. Follow these tips to make your Hershey chocolate chip cookies delicious.
The best oven temperature for Hershey chocolate chip cookies is 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature helps your cookies get golden edges and stay soft in the middle.
Baking Time Recommendations
- Preheat oven to exactly 350°F
- Bake cookies for 10-12 minutes
- Watch for light golden brown edges
- Check cookies at 10 minutes to prevent overcooking
Temperature Precision Matters
| Oven Temperature | Baking Duration | Cookie Texture |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F | 10-12 minutes | Golden edges, soft center |
| 375°F | 8-10 minutes | Crisp edges, slightly darker |
Professional bakers focus on details for perfect cookies. Use an oven thermometer for accurate temperature. Also, rotate your baking sheet halfway for even baking.
After baking, let cookies rest on the sheet for 10 minutes. This step helps them set and get the right texture before cooling on a wire rack.
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Cookie Texture
Creating soft and chewy cookies needs careful technique and attention to detail. Your baking success depends on understanding key methods. These methods transform ordinary ingredients into delectable treats.
Dough Chilling Techniques
Achieving a chewy cookie texture starts with proper dough preparation. Chilling your cookie dough is key for rich flavors and preventing spreading. Professional bakers recommend the following strategies:
- Refrigerate dough for 3-24 hours before baking
- Use room temperature butter for smoother consistency
- Wrap dough tightly in plastic wrap to prevent moisture loss
Optimal Cookie Spacing Strategies
Cookie spacing is critical for perfect texture and appearance. Proper spacing ensures even baking and prevents cookies from merging.
| Cookie Size | Recommended Spacing | Baking Result |
|---|---|---|
| Small (1 tablespoon) | 2 inches apart | Crisp edges, soft center |
| Medium (2 tablespoons) | 3 inches apart | Evenly spread, bakery-style cookies |
| Large (6 ounces) | 4 inches apart | Thick, substantial cookies |
Remember to use a light-colored baking sheet to prevent over-browning. This helps maintain that perfect chewy cookie texture you desire.
Pro tip: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes after removing from the oven. This allows them to set while maintaining a delightfully soft interior.
Nutritional Information and Serving Size
Knowing the nutritional facts of Hershey’s chocolate chip cookies is key to making smart food choices. Each cookie is a mix of tasty flavor and energy. It’s important to consider the calories and nutrients it contains.
One standard-sized cookie has about 280-290 calories. The serving size can be 1-2 cookies, depending on your diet goals and likes.
Detailed Nutritional Breakdown
- Calories: 281 per cookie
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 3g
- Total Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 37mg
- Sodium: 165mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 18g
Keeping track of your serving size is important for managing calories. The recipe makes 24 cookies, with one cookie being a standard serving.
These nutritional facts are a general guide. Actual values might vary a bit, depending on recipe changes or ingredient brands.
Storage Tips and Shelf Life
Learning how to store cookies is key to keeping them tasty and fresh. Your homemade Hershey chocolate chip cookies need the right care. This ensures they stay delicious for a long time.
Cookie storage depends on how long you want them to last. Here are some tips for different storage needs:
Room Temperature Storage
- Store in airtight containers
- Keep away from direct sunlight
- Maintain room temperature between 68-72°F
- Expect freshness for 3-5 days
Refrigeration Techniques
Refrigerating cookies can make them last up to two weeks. Wrap each cookie in plastic wrap. Or, place them in sealed containers with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Cookies
Freezing is great for keeping cookies for a long time. Here’s how to freeze them right:
- Wrap cookies individually in wax paper
- Place in freezer-safe resealable bags
- Label with date of freezing
- Store for up to 8 months
When you’re ready to eat them, thaw frozen cookies at room temperature for the best taste.
| Storage Method | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 3-5 days | Short-term storage |
| Refrigerator | Up to 2 weeks | Extended freshness |
| Freezer | Up to 8 months | Long-term preservation |
Pro tip for cookie storage: Always use airtight containers. Keep your cookies away from strong-smelling foods. This helps keep their flavor and quality.
Creative Variations Using Different Hershey Products
Make your chocolate chip cookies even better by trying new Hershey’s products. Whether you’re new to baking or love making cookies, these ideas will spark your creativity. They’re perfect for anyone who wants to try something new with the classic recipe.
Here are five fun ways to change up your chocolate chip cookie recipe with Hershey’s:
- White Chocolate Wonder: Mix Hershey’s White Creme Chips with macadamia nuts for a fancy twist
- Cinnamon Sensation: Add Hershey’s Cinnamon Chips to oatmeal cookies for a warm taste
- Dark Chocolate Dream: Use HERSHEY’S SPECIAL DARK Mildly Sweet Chocolate Chips for a deep chocolate flavor
- Cookies and Cream Crunch: Add Hershey’s cookies and cream pieces for a fun texture
- Giant Celebration Cookie: Make a huge cookie with Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Chips for big celebrations
Hershey’s Kisses Alternative
Try using Hershey’s Kisses in your cookies for a fun look. Press a Kiss into the cookie right after baking. It makes the cookie look amazing and adds a chocolate surprise in the middle.
Dark Chocolate Options
For a more complex taste, try dark chocolate chips in your cookies. Dark chocolate gives a richer, less sweet flavor. It’s great with nuts like pecans or walnuts.
| Variation | Key Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Milk Chocolate | Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Chips | Sweet, Creamy |
| Dark Chocolate Delight | Hershey’s Special Dark Chips | Rich, Intense |
| White Chocolate Bliss | Hershey’s White Creme Chips | Smooth, Delicate |
Remember, the best cookies come from trying new things. Each mix offers a special taste that will make your cookies stand out. They’ll impress everyone who tries them.
Common Baking Mistakes to Avoid
Baking cookies is an art that requires avoiding common mistakes. These mistakes can ruin your delicious treats. By knowing how to fix these issues, you can make perfect chocolate chip cookies every time.
Measuring ingredients correctly is key. Here are some mistakes to avoid:
- Incorrectly measuring ingredients can dramatically change cookie texture
- Using wet and dry measuring cups interchangeably leads to inaccurate quantities
- Compressing flour can result in dense, tough cookies
Temperature is also very important in baking. Avoid these temperature-related baking mistakes:
- Not preheating the oven can cause uneven baking
- Opening the oven door frequently disrupts cooking temperature
- Using dark-coated pans can cause faster browning
Preparing the dough is another area where mistakes happen. Overmixing can make cookies tough. Make sure your butter is softened correctly – about 30 minutes at room temperature works best. For quicker softening, cut butter into small pieces and let it sit for 15 minutes.
Baking is both science and art. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll make irresistible chocolate chip cookies. These will impress your family and friends.
Conclusion
Baking the best chocolate chip cookies is more than just following a recipe. It’s about creating moments of pure joy. With Hershey’s baking techniques, you’ll turn simple ingredients into a delightful treat that brings smiles to everyone’s face. Your journey through traditional chocolate chip cookies doesn’t end here, but truly begins with practice and passion.
Each batch of cookies represents an opportunity to refine your skills. The 22-25 minutes invested in preparing these delectable treats yields 24 cookies that pack a delicious punch. From the careful creaming of butter and sugar to the precise folding of chocolate chips, every step matters in crafting the perfect cookie experience.
Baking is a beautiful blend of creativity and precision, where artistry meets science. Your willingness to learn, experiment, and enjoy the process will transform you from a novice baker into a confident cookie creator. Embrace the small details—like ensuring your butter is softened, mixing dry ingredients thoroughly, and watching your baking time carefully—and you’ll soon be producing irresistible Hershey’s chocolate chip cookies that will become a cherished family tradition.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply satisfying a sweet craving, these cookies represent more than just a dessert. They’re a connection to time-honored baking traditions and the simple pleasure of sharing something delicious with those you love.
FAQ
How many cookies does this Hershey’s chocolate chip cookie recipe yield?
This recipe makes about 24 cookies. Each cookie is a standard serving size.
Can I use different types of Hershey’s chocolate chips in this recipe?
Yes! You can try different Hershey’s chocolate chips. Use milk chocolate, semi-sweet, or dark chocolate chips. Each will give your cookies a unique taste.
Why is chilling the cookie dough important?
Chilling the dough for at least 3 hours is key. It makes the cookies chewy, prevents them from spreading too much, and enhances the flavors. This step is essential for the perfect cookie texture.
How long can I store these chocolate chip cookies?
You can keep baked cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you refrigerate them, they last up to two weeks. You can freeze them for up to 8 months if you’d like to store them for later.
What is the recommended baking temperature and time?
Bake the cookies at 350°F (177°C) for 8-10 minutes. They should have lightly browned edges. The centers will cook a bit more after they’re out of the oven.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
Absolutely! You can add 1 cup of chopped nuts to the dough. This adds texture and flavor to your cookies.
How many calories are in one Hershey’s chocolate chip cookie?
Each cookie has about 281 calories. It has 30g carbohydrates, 17g fat, and 18g sugar.
What makes Hershey’s chocolate chips special in this recipe?
Hershey’s chocolate chips melt well, making the cookies gooey. The semi-sweet chips add a strong chocolate flavor that goes well with the cookie base.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 6 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before baking.
What are some creative variations of this recipe?
You can try using chopped Hershey bars instead of chips. Add Hershey’s Kisses or Hershey’s cookies and cream pieces. You can also use dark chocolate chips for a different taste.