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The Best Small-Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies (No Mixer)

small-batch chocolate chip cookies - featured image

These small-batch chocolate chip cookies are perfectly crispy on the edges, soft and chewy in the center, and come together in one bowl with no mixer required. Ideal for a late-night craving or a small treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 tablespoons (38g) granulated sugar
  • 3 tablespoons (43g) light brown sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/3 cup (60g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a medium mixing bowl in 15-second bursts in the microwave. Stir until fully melted, then let cool for 2 minutes.
  2. Add granulated sugar and brown sugar to the melted butter. Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds until it forms a wet, grainy paste.
  3. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and thick, like a glossy caramel sauce.
  4. Sprinkle flour, baking soda, and salt over the wet mixture. Fold with a spatula just until no streaks of flour remain. The dough will be thick, slightly sticky, and a little greasy.
  5. Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed. Leave a few chips poking out for a rustic look.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (crucial for texture).
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  8. Portion the dough into 6-8 equal balls (about 1.5 tablespoons each). Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
  9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are golden brown and centers look slightly puffy and set. The centers will look underdone.
  10. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm!

Notes

Chilling the dough for 30 minutes is non-negotiable to prevent spreading. For perfectly round cookies, use the ‘bang’ technique: drop the baking sheet gently on the counter right out of the oven. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: small batch chocolate chip cookies, no mixer cookies, one bowl cookies, easy chocolate chip cookies, late night cookies