STEP 1: PREHEAT THE OVEN

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and develop that perfect golden color.

STEP 2: CREAM TOGETHER THE BUTTER AND SUGARS

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer. The creaming process helps incorporate air into the dough, which contributes to a lighter cookie texture.

STEP 3: ADD THE EGGS AND VANILLA

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. This step not only adds moisture but also enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.

STEP 4: COMBINE DRY INGREDIENTS

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the dough, resulting in uniform cookies.

STEP 5: MIX DRY INGREDIENTS INTO WET INGREDIENTS

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are still a few streaks of flour.

STEP 6: FOLD IN CHOCOLATE CHIPS

Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the dough. This is where the magic happens—each cookie will have gooey pockets of chocolate.

STEP 7: CHILL THE DOUGH (OPTIONAL)

For best results, cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the flavors meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

STEP 8: SCOOP AND ROLL THE COOKIES

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough and roll it into balls. Place the cookie balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.

STEP 9: BAKE THE COOKIES

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked. The cookies will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven, so it’s okay if they seem a little soft in the middle.

STEP 10: COOL AND ENJOY

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the cookies firm up while still retaining their chewy center.