National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day, celebrated on August 4th, is a delightful occasion dedicated to one of the most beloved treats in the world. From children to adults, chocolate chip cookies hold a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of many. The combination of crispy edges, chewy centres, and pockets of melted chocolate makes these cookies universally adored.
While traditional chocolate chip cookies are always a hit, adding a unique twist to Mrs Tilly's range of sweet products can make your celebrations even more special. Let's explore how sweets can elevate your chocolate chip cookie experience and bring a touch of Scottish sweetness to this classic treat.
The History of Chocolate Chip Cookies
The origins of the chocolate chip cookie trace back to the 1930s, thanks to an ingenious baker named Ruth Wakefield. Ruth owned the Toll House Inn in Whitman, Massachusetts, and one day, she decided to add chopped pieces of a Nestlé semi-sweet chocolate bar to her cookie dough. She expected the chocolate to melt and spread throughout the dough, but instead, the pieces retained their shape, resulting in the first batch of chocolate chip cookies.
This serendipitous creation quickly gained popularity, and in 1939, the recipe was featured on the back of Nestlé’s chocolate bars, making it a household favourite across the United States.
Over the decades, chocolate chip cookies have evolved in many ways. Bakers experimented with different types of chocolate, from dark to milk to white, and added ingredients like nuts, oats, and even dried fruit.
Despite these variations, the classic chocolate chip cookie remains a timeless favourite. Its popularity isn't confined to the UK, it has become a global sensation, loved by people of all ages. The combination of simplicity and deliciousness makes it an enduring treat that continues to be baked and enjoyed around the world.
Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
Creating the perfect chocolate chip cookie is both an art and a science. Here’s a classic recipe that delivers the ideal balance of chewy and crispy, ensuring your cookies are a hit every time.
Classic Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
First up, take a look at the ingredients you need to prepare this amazing recipe:
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225g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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170g (3/4 cup) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
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150g (3/4 cup) packed brown sugar
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100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
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1 tablespoon vanilla extract
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1 large egg
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1 large egg yolk
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300g (1 1/2 cups) semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line baking trays with parchment paper.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
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In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until well blended. Add the vanilla extract, egg, and egg yolk, and mix until creamy.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined. Stir in the chocolate chips.
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Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking trays, spacing them about 5cm (2 inches) apart.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Allow the cookies to cool on the trays for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Baking the Perfect Cookie
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Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature to ensure even mixing and a consistent texture.
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For thicker cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
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Cookies continue to cook on the baking tray after being removed from the oven. Take them out when the edges are golden but the centres are still slightly soft.
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The better the chocolate, the better the cookie. Opt for high-quality chocolate chips or chop up a good chocolate bar for superior flavour.
Sweet Combinations
Chocolate chip cookies are delightful on their own, but adding a touch of Mrs Tilly's confections can make them extraordinary.
Fudge-Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies
Imagine biting into a warm, freshly baked cookie only to find a gooey centre of our Scottish Fudge. To create these, simply make a small indentation in your cookie dough, place a piece of Scottish Fudge inside, and cover it with more dough. Bake as usual. The result is a cookie with a decadent, fudgy core that adds a twist to the classic treat.
Chocolate Honeycomb Crunch Cookies
For a unique texture and flavour, add pieces of Chocolate Honeycomb to your cookie dough. The honeycomb will melt slightly during baking, creating pockets of caramelised sweetness and a satisfying crunch. This twist adds a delightful surprise to each bite, making your cookies stand out from the ordinary.
Tablet Cookie Sandwiches
Take your cookie game to the next level by creating cookie sandwiches with our Scottish Tablet. Bake your favourite chocolate chip cookies and allow them to cool completely. Then, spread a layer of softened Scottish Tablet between two cookies. The tablet's buttery, crumbly texture complements the cookies perfectly, creating a rich and satisfying treat that's hard to resist.
Creative Serving Ideas
Enhancing your cookie experience with creative serving ideas can make any occasion special.
Cookie and Fudge Ice Cream Sandwiches
You can Combine the best of both worlds by making ice cream sandwiches with chocolate chip cookies and fudge. Simply sandwich a scoop of your favourite ice cream between two cookies, and add a layer of Scottish Orange Fudge for an extra indulgent touch. The treat is perfect for hot summer days or as a decadent dessert.
Cookie Dessert Boards
You can also create a stunning dessert board by arranging an assortment of chocolate chip cookies alongside sweets. Include pieces of Scottish Tablet, Chocolate Honeycomb, and various fudges. This setup is not only visually appealing but also allows guests to mix and match their favourite treats, making it ideal for parties and gatherings.
Cookie Trifles
Try layering cookies with our products in a trifle for a show-stopping dessert. Start with a base layer of crumbled chocolate chip cookies, followed by a layer of whipped cream or custard. Add chunks of Scottish Tablet or fudge, and repeat the layers. Top with a drizzle of chocolate sauce and a sprinkle of crumbled honeycomb. The dessert is both impressive and delicious, perfect for special occasions.
Pairing Cookies with Drinks
Pairing your cookies with the right drink can elevate the overall experience. Here are some ideas:
Classic Milk Pairing
There's a reason milk and cookies are a classic combination. The cold, creamy milk balances the sweetness of the cookies, making each bite more enjoyable. The richness of our sweet products in your cookies pairs wonderfully with a glass of milk.
Tea and Coffee Pairings
For those who prefer tea or coffee, cookies and traditional bars offer delightful pairings. The robust flavours of coffee complement the rich, chocolatey taste of the cookies, especially when paired with bars, fudge or honeycomb. Similarly, a strong cup of tea can highlight the buttery notes of the Scottish Tablet and the sweetness of the cookies.
Final Thoughts
National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day is the perfect opportunity to get creative with your cookie recipes. By incorporating our products, you can add unique twists and elevate your cookies to new levels of deliciousness. We encourage you to try these ideas and share your creations. Celebrate this special day with us and discover new favourite treats. Browse through our online store to discover our range of delightful confections!
