Growing up, my dad always said that the only constant in life was change. But, as it turns out, the only constant in my life is Jon Stewart. That, and chocolate chip cookies. To my mind, there are few things in the world more comforting – more steadfast – than warm cookies and a tall glass of milk. And a side order of deliciously smug political satire.
I copied this recipe from a friend (I think she got it from The Fanny Farmer Cookbook) about 12 years ago and have carried it around ever since.
I'm moved cities, I've moved jobs, new people have come into my life – but I've always made these cookies. They're the perfect combination of crisp and chewy, and are generally a hit with kids and adults alike. I skip the nuts, but at Christmas, when I bake a tin of treats for everyone that I'm close to, I add cranberries.
When I take these cookies to parties, I often reserve a small amount of dough in the fridge. That way, when I get home, I can crank up the oven and indulge in a late-night treat. It's nice when some things stay the same, no?
Best Ever Chocolate Chip Cookies
1 1/8 cup flour
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup dark brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
3/4 teaspoon vanilla
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup nuts (optional)
1. Preheat oven to 375 F.
2. Cream butter and add sugars. Beat until light and smooth.
3. Add vanilla and egg.
4. In a separate bowl, mix flour, salt and baking soda.
5. Add dry to wet. Stir until combined.
6. Add chocolate chips (and nuts, if using).
7. Drop spoonfuls on a cookie sheet and bake 8-10 minutes, until lightly browned.
