Name: Nestle Toll House Cookies: Irresistibly Soft & Chewy Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 56 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (softened); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar; 3/4 cup Brown Sugar; 2 large Eggs (at room temperature); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free flour blend); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 2 cups Nestle Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels; 1 cup Nuts (optional, chopped walnuts or pecans)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I stood in my kitchen, a warm, sweet aroma wafted through the air, instantly transporting me back to my childhood. Nestle Toll House Cookies have always been more than just a treat in our home; they’ve been a source of comfort and joy. With their soft, chewy centers and slightly crispy edges, these classic cookies are not only easy to make but also a fantastic way to whip up something special when time is tight. Using simple pantry ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Imagine indulging in a warm cookie, the gooey chocolate melting in your mouth, bringing smiles around the table. Are you ready to embark on this delicious journey and create a batch that will evoke nostalgia and delight in every bite?

Why Love Nestle Toll House Cookies?

Irresistible Homemade Flavor: There’s nothing quite like the rich, buttery aroma of freshly baked cookies filling your home.
Quick and Easy: With just a handful of pantry staples, this recipe is perfect for novice bakers and experienced chefs alike.
Classic Comfort: A timeless favorite, these cookies evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth, bringing smiles to any gathering.
Customizable Delights: Whether you want to go gluten-free or toss in your favorite nuts, this recipe adapts beautifully.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From cozy family nights to festive celebrations, these cookies are sure to impress and satisfy.
Start baking these delightful treats now and pair them with a glass of milk for the ultimate experience—don’t forget to check out our Chocolate Chip Cookies for more delicious ideas!

Nestle Toll House Cookies Ingredients

• The classic recipe is just a few ingredients away!

For the Cookie Dough

Butter – Adds a rich, creamy flavor and achieves a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Substitution: Use dairy-free butter for a vegan version.
Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture, balancing the flavors.
Brown Sugar – Adds chewiness and a deeper caramel flavor due to its molasses content.
Eggs – Binds the ingredients together, providing moisture for soft cookies. Ensure at room temperature for best results.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the dough’s flavor and perfectly complements the chocolate.
All-Purpose Flour – Supplies structure and stability to the cookie. For gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend.
Baking Soda – Assists in rising and achieving that fluffy texture we all love.
Salt – Enhances sweetness, balancing the overall flavor.
Nestle Toll House Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels – Key ingredient delivering the iconic chocolate flavor and texture for these Nestle Toll House Cookies.
Nuts (optional) – Walnuts or pecans can be added for extra crunch and flavor.

Feel the nostalgia and joy of homemade goodness with these classic cookies—you’re just a few ingredients away from a delightful experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nestle Toll House Cookies

Step 1: Prep the Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when cookies are formed. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 3/4 cup of brown sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 2 large eggs, beating each egg in one at a time until thoroughly combined and the mixture is light.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This combination provides the structure and leavening required for those perfect Nestle Toll House Cookies. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet bowl, mixing just until the dough comes together to ensure the perfect texture.

Step 3: Add Chocolate
Gently fold in 2 cups of Nestle Toll House semi-sweet chocolate morsels to the cookie dough, allowing the delightful chocolate to mix evenly throughout. If you’re opting to include nuts, such as 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans, stir them in now for an extra crunch. The dough should be rich and sweet, with the chocolate pieces peeking through.

Step 4: Chill Dough (optional)
For thicker cookies, you may wish to chill the dough for 30 minutes. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. This step allows the flavors to meld and makes handling the dough easier, ensuring beautifully shaped Nestle Toll House Cookies once baked.

Step 5: Bake
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown while the center remains soft. Keep an eye on them; they’ll continue to set as they cool.

Step 6: Cool
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the cookies to firm up slightly. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the warm, sweet aroma that fills your kitchen as these classic Nestle Toll House Cookies become a delightful treat in your home.

How to Store and Freeze Nestle Toll House Cookies

Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Layer them with parchment paper for easy separation.

Dough Storage: You can scoop and freeze cookie dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a bag. They’ll last in the freezer for up to 3 months—just add an extra minute or two to the baking time when ready to bake.

Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, reheat individual cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

What to Serve with Classic Nestle Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookies

Indulging in the warm, gooey delight of freshly baked cookies is a moment worth savoring, especially when paired with the perfect accompaniments.

Cold Glass of Milk: Complements the sweetness of the cookies and enhances the chocolate flavor, a classic pairing that never disappoints.
Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm cookies, creating a heavenly dessert experience. A scoop on top leads to a delightful melting moment.
Fresh Berries Salad: A light, refreshing mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a burst of sweetness and a touch of acidity, balancing the richness of the cookies.
Creamy Hot Chocolate: For a cozy treat, serve these cookies alongside a mug of hot chocolate, ensuring each bite is enveloped in warmth. The chocolaty flavor elevates the overall indulgence!
Fruity Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea with fruity notes provides a wonderful contrast to the cookies’ sweetness, offering a peaceful sipping experience.
Decadent Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some caramel sauce over your cookie for an extra layer of flavor—it’s the ultimate treat that makes each bite feel luxurious.
Nutty Coffee: Serve with a rich, nut-flavored coffee to enhance the comforting notes of the cookies. The warmth of the drink harmonizes wonderfully with their melty chocolate.
Cookie Dough Milkshake: Blend remaining cookie bits into a milkshake for a fun twist! It’s an indulgent dessert that adds another layer of chocolate goodness.

Experiment with these pairings to create your own delightful cookie experience around the dinner table!

Nestle Toll House Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these beloved cookies and customize them to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Substitute regular butter and chocolate chips with dairy-free options for a vegan-friendly treat. This way, everyone can enjoy the warm, gooey goodness.
Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour for a quality gluten-free flour blend. You won’t lose any of the classic flavor while accommodating dietary preferences.
Chocolate Variations: Choose from milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips for a unique twist. You can also add dried fruits like cranberries for a delightful contrast.
Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that enhances each bite’s richness. These nuts add a toasty flavor that perfectly complements the chocolate.
Spiced Perfection: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter to infuse a warm, comforting spice. This variation is especially delightful during the fall and winter months.
Extra Sweetness: Mix in a handful of butterscotch or peanut butter chips for an extra layer of sweetness and flavor that complements the chocolate morsels beautifully.
Oatmeal Twist: Fold in a cup of rolled oats for a chewy texture and added fiber. Oatmeal chocolate chip cookies can be a heartier alternative that’s surprisingly satisfying.
Stuffed Cookies: Create cookie pockets by sandwiching a piece of chocolate, caramel, or even Nutella inside the dough before baking. This surprise filling makes for an indulgent treat!

With these variations, you can tailor the classic Nestle Toll House Cookies to both your cravings and dietary preferences. If you’re looking for more chocolatey inspiration, don’t forget to check out our delicious Chocolate Chip Cookies for further delightful ideas!

Make Ahead Options

These Nestle Toll House Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For an even longer option, scoop the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. To maintain quality, make sure each ball is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and add an extra minute or two to the baking time for frozen dough. This way, you’ll have freshly baked cookies, just as delicious and nostalgic, with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Nestle Toll House Cookies

• Avoid Overbaking: Don’t wait until the cookies look completely firm; remove them when they’re still soft in the center. They’ll firm up as they cool, ensuring perfect, chewy Nestle Toll House Cookies.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing too much flour, which may lead to dry cookies. Accurate measurements are essential for baking success!

• Room Temperature Butter: Make sure the butter is at room temperature, not melted. This helps create the ideal creamy texture for the dough.

• Chill for Thickness: If you want thicker cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. It helps develop flavors and controls spread during baking.

• Use Parchment Paper: Baking cookies on parchment paper prevents sticking and helps achieve even baking, resulting in beautiful Nestle Toll House Cookies.

• Experiment with Mix-Ins: Get creative! Add nuts, dried fruits, or alternate chocolate types for new flavors. Tailor your cookies to your taste with these simple additions.

Nestle Toll House Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for Nestle Toll House Cookies?
Absolutely! Choosing the best ingredients can elevate your cookies. For butter, pick one that’s creamy and fresh—avoid anything that appears discolored or overly soft. Eggs should be at room temperature for optimal mixing. When selecting flour, ensure it’s fresh and free of clumps for a light texture. Lastly, choose chocolate morsels that are high-quality for the richest flavor!

How should I store my baked Nestle Toll House Cookies?
To keep those delightful cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want them to last longer, consider placing parchment paper between layers to keep them from sticking together.

Can I freeze Nestle Toll House Cookies?
Yes! Freezing cookies is a fantastic option. Allow them to cool completely, then layer them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper in between for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for a treat, simply reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too dry?
If your dough seems dry, don’t worry! Start by adding a tablespoon of milk or water and mix well. You can also incorporate another egg if needed, but be mindful that it will change the overall texture. This extra moisture should help achieve that perfect soft and chewy consistency we love in Nestle Toll House Cookies!

Are Nestle Toll House Cookies suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Very! For those who are gluten-sensitive, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend; make sure it contains xanthan gum for the best results. To make them dairy-free, use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips. Additionally, always check the ingredient labels for potential allergens, especially if making them for someone with severe allergies.

How can I ensure my Nestle Toll House Cookies don’t spread too much?
A great tip for preventing excessive spreading is to refrigerate your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This will help solidify the fats in the butter and reduce spreading during the baking process. Also, ensure your baking sheets are cool before placing fresh dough on them—warm sheets can make the dough melt too quickly!