Nestle toll house chocolate chip cookie recipe

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The Toll House chocolate chip cookie was born in the 1930s in Whitman, Massachusetts, at the Toll House Inn. Ruth Wakefield, the innkeeper and a skilled baker, wanted to create a new dessert for her guests. She decided to chop up a Nestlé chocolate bar and mix the pieces into her cookie dough, hoping the chocolate would melt evenly. Instead, the chocolate retained its shape, resulting in the first-ever batch of chocolate chip cookies.

Wakefield’s recipe quickly gained popularity, and she struck a deal with Nestlé to include the recipe on the back of their chocolate bar packaging in exchange for a lifetime supply of chocolate. Thus, the Toll House cookie became a household name and has remained a beloved treat for decades.

How It Became a Household Favorite

  • Recipe Sharing: The simple yet delicious recipe became a staple in kitchens across America as families shared it with friends and neighbors.
  • Nestlé’s Contribution: The inclusion of the recipe on Nestlé chocolate chip packaging ensured it reached millions of home bakers, further cementing its place in American baking culture.
  • Cultural Icon: Over the years, the Toll House cookie has been synonymous with comfort, nostalgia, and the joy of home baking.

The classic recipe for Toll House cookies requires a precise balance of dry and wet ingredients, along with high-quality chocolate for the signature flavor.

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 1/4 cups (270g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup (165g) packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs (approximately 50g each, without shell)

Chocolate Chips and Optional Add-Ins

  • 2 cups (340g) Nestlé Toll House semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup (100g) chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans (optional)

These ingredients create the perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and richness.

Essential Baking Tools

To achieve the best results, having the right tools on hand is crucial. Here’s what you’ll need:

Mixing Essentials

  • Mixing Bowls: At least two bowls—one for dry ingredients and one for wet. Use a medium-sized bowl for the dry mix and a larger one for creaming butter and sugar.
  • Spatulas and Spoons: A rubber spatula or sturdy wooden spoon for folding the dough and scraping the sides of the bowl.
  • Hand or Stand Mixer: While not mandatory, a mixer speeds up the creaming process and ensures even mixing.

Measuring Tools

  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure accurate measurements with both dry and liquid measuring tools.
  • Digital Kitchen Scale: For precision, especially when scaling the recipe or baking in grams.

Baking Sheets and Liners

  • Non-Stick Baking Sheets: Even heat distribution ensures cookies bake uniformly.
  • Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mats: Prevent sticking and make cleanup easy, while also helping cookies bake evenly.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking Success

Making the perfect Toll House chocolate chip cookies is all about following the steps carefully. Here’s a detailed guide to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time:

Preparing Your Workspace

  1. Preheat Your Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when your cookies are.
  2. Line Baking Sheets: Use parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  3. Gather Ingredients and Tools: Have all ingredients measured and tools ready for seamless baking. Room-temperature butter and eggs are essential for a smooth mixing process.

Mixing Dry and Wet Ingredients

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups (270g) of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon (5g) baking soda, and 1 teaspoon (5g) salt. Set aside.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat 1 cup (226g) softened unsalted butter, 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar, 3/4 cup (165g) packed brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon (5g) vanilla extract. Beat until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
  3. Incorporate Eggs: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures a smooth and cohesive wet mixture.

Combining the Dough

  1. Gradually Add Dry Ingredients: Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture on low speed, stopping once just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the dough tender.
  2. Fold in Chocolate Chips and Add-Ins: Gently fold in 2 cups (340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 cup (100g) chopped nuts (if using) with a spatula for even distribution.

Portioning and Baking

  1. Scoop Dough: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough into uniform balls, about 2 tablespoons each. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving 2 inches (5 cm) between each.
  2. Bake: Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are slightly soft. Avoid overbaking for chewy cookies.
  3. Cool: Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Key Tips for Baking the Best Chocolate Chip Cookies

The Importance of Butter Consistency

  • Softened Butter: Use butter that’s soft but not melted for optimal creaming. This creates air pockets in the dough, leading to a lighter texture.
  • Too Cold or Melted Butter: Cold butter won’t cream properly, while melted butter can cause excessive spreading during baking.

Why Chilling Dough Matters

  • Prevents Spreading: Chilled dough allows the butter to firm up, ensuring cookies hold their shape.
  • Enhances Flavor: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) allows the flour to hydrate and the flavors to meld.
  • Improves Texture: Chilling results in a chewier, more structured cookie.
  • Chewy Cookies: Increase the brown sugar slightly and slightly underbake. Remove cookies when edges are set but centers are soft.
  • Crispy Cookies: Use more granulated sugar than brown sugar and bake for a minute longer.
  • Soft and Puffy Cookies: Use slightly cooler dough and avoid flattening the dough balls before baking.

The classic Toll House cookie is timeless, but it also serves as a fantastic base for creative adaptations. Here are some ways to tweak the recipe for new and exciting flavors:

Adding Nuts and Dried Fruits

  • Nuts: Add 1 cup (100g) of toasted walnuts, pecans, or almonds for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. Toasting the nuts before folding them into the dough intensifies their taste.
  • Dried Fruits: Incorporate 3/4 cup (75g) of dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates for a chewy, sweet-tart addition. These pair particularly well with dark chocolate chips.
  • Mix-and-Match: Combine nuts and dried fruits for a trail mix-inspired cookie. Ensure the total weight of add-ins doesn’t exceed 400g to maintain the dough’s structure.

Gluten-Free and Vegan Adaptations

  • Gluten-Free Version:
    • Replace the 270g of all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend containing xanthan gum for structure.
    • Chill the dough for at least 1 hour to prevent excessive spreading, as gluten-free flours absorb liquid differently.
  • Vegan Version:
    • Use 226g of vegan butter or solid coconut oil as a substitute for butter.
    • Replace eggs with flax eggs (2 tablespoons flaxseed meal mixed with 5 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) or 100g of unsweetened applesauce.
    • Ensure chocolate chips are dairy-free, such as Nestlé Toll House Simply Delicious or Enjoy Life.

Creative Flavor Twists

  • Spices: Add 1 teaspoon (5g) of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for warmth and depth.
  • Specialty Chocolates: Use dark chocolate chunks, white chocolate chips, or a mix of semi-sweet and milk chocolates for a sophisticated twist.
  • Savory Touches: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie before baking for a sweet-and-savory contrast.
  • Candy Add-Ins: Fold in chopped candy bars, toffee bits, or peanut butter cups for a more indulgent experience.

How to Store and Freeze Toll House Cookies

Proper storage and freezing techniques ensure your cookies remain fresh and ready to enjoy anytime.

Proper Storage for Baked Cookies

  • Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Add a slice of bread to the container to maintain softness.
  • Refrigeration: In warm or humid conditions, refrigerate cookies to extend their freshness to 2 weeks. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Freezing Dough and Reheating Tips

  • Freezing Dough:
    • Scoop cookie dough into individual portions using a cookie scoop or tablespoon.
    • Place dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 1–2 hours until solid.
    • Transfer frozen dough balls to a resealable freezer bag or container. Label with the date and baking instructions.
    • Shelf Life: Frozen dough lasts up to 3 months.
  • Baking from Frozen Dough:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Place frozen dough balls directly on a prepared baking sheet and bake for an additional 2–3 minutes longer than the original recipe.
  • Reheating Baked Cookies:
    • To refresh stored cookies, warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes. This restores their fresh-baked texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

A Toll House cookie is a classic chocolate chip cookie originally created by Ruth Wakefield at the Toll House Inn in the 1930s. It features a buttery dough filled with semi-sweet chocolate chips and optional nuts, delivering a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. The recipe has become a staple in American baking and remains synonymous with comfort and nostalgia.

What Are Nestlé Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Nestlé Toll House chocolate chip cookies are the iconic cookies made using the original recipe featured on Nestlé chocolate chip packaging. Known for their rich flavor and soft, chewy texture, these cookies are a favorite for home bakers worldwide. The semi-sweet chocolate chips from Nestlé are a key ingredient, contributing to their distinct taste.

To make a classic Nestlé Toll House cookie:

  1. Preheat Oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Prepare baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  2. Mix Ingredients: Combine 2 1/4 cups (270g) flour, 1 tsp (5g) baking soda, and 1 tsp (5g) salt. In a separate bowl, cream 226g of softened butter, 150g granulated sugar, 165g packed brown sugar, and 5g vanilla extract. Add 2 large eggs, then gradually mix in the dry ingredients.
  3. Fold in Add-Ins: Stir in 340g of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 100g of optional nuts.
  4. Portion and Bake: Scoop dough onto baking sheets, leaving space for spreading, and bake for 9–11 minutes. Let cool and enjoy!

Here’s the Toll House cookie recipe converted to grams for precision:

  • Dry Ingredients:
    • 280g all-purpose flour
    • 5g baking soda
    • 5g salt
  • Wet Ingredients:
    • 226g unsalted butter
    • 150g granulated sugar
    • 165g brown sugar
    • 5g vanilla extract
    • 2 large eggs (50g each)
  • Mix-Ins:
    • 340g semi-sweet chocolate chips
    • 100g chopped nuts (optional)
      Follow the same preparation steps above, ensuring accurate measurements for consistent results.

Troubleshooting Common Baking Issues

Flat Cookies

  • Cause: Warm butter or dough not chilled.
  • Solution: Use softened butter, not melted. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
  • Cause: Insufficient flour.
  • Solution: Weigh flour precisely (270g) to avoid under-measuring.

Dry or Crumbly Cookies

  • Cause: Too much flour or insufficient butter.
  • Solution: Use the correct ratio of flour (270g) and butter (226g). Measure accurately with a digital scale.
  • Cause: Overbaking.
  • Solution: Remove cookies from the oven when edges are golden, even if centers look soft. They’ll firm up while cooling.

Uneven Baking Problems

  • Cause: Inconsistent dough sizes or overcrowded baking sheets.
  • Solution: Use a cookie scoop for uniform portions and leave enough space between cookies.
  • Cause: Uneven oven heat.
  • Solution: Rotate baking sheets halfway through for even baking.

Scaling the Recipe for Any Occasion

Adjusting Ingredients for Smaller or Larger Batches

  • Halving the Recipe: Divide all ingredients by two. For example, use 113g of butter and 135g of flour.
  • Doubling the Recipe: Multiply all ingredients by two. Use 452g of butter and 540g of flour. Ensure your mixing bowl is large enough for the increased volume.

Tips for Even Baking

  • Bake in batches if doubling the recipe to avoid overcrowding the oven.
  • Use multiple baking sheets to ensure all cookies have enough space to spread.
  • For larger cookies, increase baking time slightly and monitor for doneness.

Understanding the Magic of Chocolate Chip Cookies

How Ingredients Influence Taste and Texture

  • Flour: Provides structure. Too much can lead to dense cookies, while too little can cause spreading.
  • Sugar: Affects texture. Brown sugar creates a chewy texture due to its moisture content, while granulated sugar adds crispness.
  • Butter: Adds richness and softness. Softened butter allows for proper creaming and air incorporation.

The Role of Sugar, Butter, and Eggs

  • Sugar: Balances sweetness and caramelization for a golden exterior.
  • Butter: Adds flavor and tenderness. The quality of butter directly affects the cookie’s richness.
  • Eggs: Bind ingredients and contribute to a moist, tender crumb.

Adding a Gourmet Touch to Your Cookies

Sea Salt Flakes

  • Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on each cookie before baking to enhance the chocolate’s flavor and add a sophisticated touch.

Brown Butter

  • Melt butter in a pan until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Cool it to room temperature before using. Brown butter adds depth and richness to your cookies.

Specialty Chocolates

  • Replace regular semi-sweet chips with chunks of dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even caramel-filled pieces for a gourmet twist. A mix of chocolates creates a complex flavor profile.

The Joy of Sharing Homemade Toll House Cookies

Why They Make the Perfect Gift

  • Homemade cookies are personal, comforting, and universally loved. They show effort and care, making them a thoughtful gift for any occasion.

Creative Ways to Package Cookies

  • Use decorative tins or mason jars for presentation. Line them with parchment paper for freshness.
  • Add a handwritten recipe card to share the baking joy.
  • Wrap individual cookies in cellophane with ribbons for a festive touch.

Final Thoughts on Baking Toll House Cookies

Why This Recipe Is Timeless

The Nestlé Toll House chocolate chip cookie recipe is a blend of simplicity and perfection. Its balance of flavors and textures has made it a staple in households for generations.

Encouragement to Experiment and Enjoy Baking

Baking is as much about creativity as it is about precision. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations, add-ins, or techniques to make the recipe your own. Most importantly, enjoy the process—because there’s nothing quite as rewarding as sharing warm, homemade cookies with loved ones.

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