Neighbor Judy’s Chocolate Chip Cookies

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Neighbor Judy’s Chocolate Chip Cookies – The Ultimate Homemade Cookie Recipe You’ll Love Forever

If there’s one thing that brings comfort and warmth into any kitchen, it’s the smell of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. And when it comes to legendary cookie recipes, Neighbor Judy’s Chocolate Chip Cookies stand in a class of their own. These cookies aren’t just a sweet treat—they’re a memory, a tradition, and a little piece of homemade heaven.

Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a school fundraiser, or simply to satisfy a late-night craving, this is the only chocolate chip cookie recipe you’ll ever need. Rich, chewy, golden on the outside and soft in the center, these cookies will make you the star of every potluck and the favorite neighbor on the block.

Why Are Neighbor Judy’s Cookies So Special?

What makes this recipe truly stand out is the perfect balance between texture and flavor. Thanks to two full cups of light brown sugar and a whole stick of salted butter, these cookies are deeply flavorful with a soft, chewy texture that doesn’t dry out.

Judy’s secret? Keep it simple, use real ingredients, and don’t skip the sea salt. The result is a batch of cookies that taste homemade in the best way possible—like something your grandmother might make, but with just the right upgrades for today’s tastes.

Ingredients for Neighbor Judy’s Chocolate Chip Cookies

You don’t need fancy ingredients—just quality pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 1 stick (1/2 cup) salted butter, softened
  • 2 cups light brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1 bag (12 oz) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Pro Tip: Use a high-quality vanilla extract and fresh chocolate chips. It makes a noticeable difference in flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies

Follow these easy instructions to make cookies that are crisp around the edges and gooey in the middle—just the way they should be.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar. Beat for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air and makes your cookies nice and chewy.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Then stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and sea salt.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing slowly until just combined. Do not overmix—that can make your cookies tough.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough.

Step 7: Scoop and Space

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart.

Step 8: Bake

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft. Don’t overbake—cookies continue to cook a little on the hot pan after removal.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cookie Baking Tips from Neighbor Judy Herself

1. Use Salted Butter: The added salt brings out the flavors of the brown sugar and chocolate, giving the cookies a richer taste.

2. Chill the Dough (Optional): If you want a thicker cookie with less spread, chill the dough for 30–60 minutes before baking.

3. Add Sea Salt on Top: For a gourmet touch, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on each cookie before baking.

4. Customize It: Add chopped nuts, white chocolate chips, or toffee bits to make the recipe your own.

How to Store Chocolate Chip Cookies for Lasting Freshness

Once baked, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the dough for quick cookie baking later—just scoop into balls, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen with an added minute or two.

Make It a Family Tradition

There’s a reason this recipe has been passed from neighbor to neighbor, kitchen to kitchen. Neighbor Judy’s Chocolate Chip Cookies aren’t just dessert—they’re a way to bring people together. Bake a batch with your kids on a rainy day, take them to a block party, or surprise a friend. Few things are more powerful than a warm cookie shared with someone you care about.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar?

Yes, but it will result in a deeper molasses flavor and slightly denser texture.

Can I use unsalted butter?

Yes, but you may want to add an additional 1/4 teaspoon of salt to the dough.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure it includes xanthan gum for structure.

What if I want softer cookies?

Don’t overbake. Remove from the oven when they still look a bit underdone in the center.

Final Thoughts: A Cookie Worth Keeping

If you’re looking for a classic chocolate chip cookie recipe that never fails, this is it. With a perfect balance of sweet, salty, chewy, and crisp, Neighbor Judy’s Chocolate Chip Cookies will quickly become a favorite in your home too.

So go ahead—bake a batch, share with someone you love, and pass the recipe on. After all, the best cookies aren’t just baked… they’re shared.

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