Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe moment I pulled the first batch of Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies from the oven, my kitchen transformed into a cozy haven. The warm, buttery aroma swirled around me, evoking nostalgic memories of baking with loved ones on lazy afternoons. These chewy cookies are not only a breeze to whip up, but they also offer delightful variations—mix semisweet morsels with rich dark chocolate or try a sprinkle of sea salt for a gourmet twist. Perfect for those of us looking to escape the fast-food rut, this recipe promises a crowd-pleasing treat that’s sure to bring joy at every bite. Ready to fill your home with sweet scents and a little extra love? Let’s dive into the delicious world of homemade cookies! Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible? Comforting, nostalgic flavors: The essence of homemade goodness shines through in every bite. Customizable options allow you to tailor them to your taste—mix and match chocolate types like semisweet or dark for a unique twist! Quick preparation means you can whip them up anytime, making them perfect for unexpected guests. Perfect for sharing, these cookies will quickly have your friends and family gathering around the kitchen, reminiscing over childhood memories. Plus, if you’re craving a healthy alternative, check out our Chocolate Banana Protein for a guilt-free treat! Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients For the Cookie Dough All-Purpose Flour – Provides the essential structure for a chewy texture; substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version. Unsalted Butter – Gives richness and ensures a smooth mix; feel free to swap with coconut oil or dairy-free butter, but it may alter the flavor slightly. Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; for softer cookies, pair it with light brown sugar instead of using only granulated. Light Brown Sugar – Helps achieve a chewy texture and a hint of caramel flavor; it’s key in the beloved Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies. Chocolate Chips (Semisweet/Milk/Dark) – Bring richness and decadence; for variety, consider using chunky chocolate bars or white chocolate pieces for a twist. Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for a soft, chewy cookie texture. Salt – Enhances the overall flavor for a well-balanced cookie. Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to sweetness and a wonderful aroma. Eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients and contributing to the chewy texture. Optional Toppings or Variations Sea Salt Flakes – A sprinkle just before baking can enhance the sweetness and provide a gourmet touch. Chopped Nuts (e.g., Walnuts or Pecans) – For an added crunch and flavor profile, mix in some chopped nuts. Alternative Chocolate Varieties – Swap chocolate chips for M&M’s or even dried fruits for a fruity flair! This Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe not only tantalizes the taste buds but also brings the warmth of home cooking into your kitchen. Happy baking! Step-by-Step Instructions for Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper, creating a non-stick surface for your cookies to bake perfectly. This foundational step sets the stage for the delicious Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies that are about to fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma! Step 2: Prepare the Flour Mixture In a small bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda until well combined. This flour mixture provides the structure for your cookies, so ensure there are no lumps. Set it aside for later use, ready to enhance the chewy texture of your Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies. Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat 1 cup of room temperature unsalted butter with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of packed light-brown sugar. Mix these ingredients on medium speed for about 3 minutes until you achieve a light and fluffy consistency. This step is crucial for infusing your cookies with rich flavor as you create the base for your Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies. Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings Next, add 1 teaspoon of salt, 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract, and 2 large eggs to your butter and sugar mixture. Mix well after each addition until everything is fully incorporated and smooth. The combination of the wet ingredients will create a delightful batter, contributing depth to the sweet flavors in your Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies. Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined; be careful not to over-mix. Use a spatula to fold the dry ingredients into the batter. This step ensures a soft, chewy texture for your Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies that everyone loves. Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate Chips Fold in 2 cups of chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. Feel free to mix and match chocolate types—semisweet, dark, or milk—according to your preference for a personalized touch. This step is where the classic indulgence of Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies comes to life, packed with chocolatey goodness! Step 7: Scoop the Dough Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows the cookies to spread. The cookie dough should look inviting and glossy, ready to bake into delicious Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies. Step 8: Bake the Cookies Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the cookie edges are golden and the centers appear soft. Watch closely, as these cues indicate the perfect doneness for your Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies! Step 9: Cool the Cookies Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. This cooling period will help them set slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. After a few minutes, gently transfer your Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies to the wire rack to cool completely, ready to melt hearts with their chewy, warm charm. How to Store and Freeze Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies Airtight Container: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them soft and chewy. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a resealable plastic bag for up to 3 months. Be sure to label them for easy identification! Thawing: Thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before enjoying. Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes for that freshly baked taste with your Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies. What to Serve with Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies Savor the warmth of homemade delights by creating the perfect meal to accompany your freshly baked cookies. Classic Milk: The smooth creaminess of cold milk perfectly complements the rich chocolate, creating a nostalgic pairing that feels like a warm hug. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream beside your cookie creates a heavenly contrast of temperatures, making each bite a creamy, dreamy treat. Fresh Berries: Bright, tart berries add a refreshing twist that balances the sweetness of the cookies, bringing a pop of color and flavor to your dessert table. Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee enhance the chocolatey goodness, making for a delightful pick-me-up, perfect for afternoon breaks or cozy evenings. Sliced Apples with Caramel Dip: The crispness of apples and the creamy sweetness of caramel create a delightful experience that complements the chewy texture of the cookies. Nutty Trail Mix: A handful of nutty trail mix can offer a crunchy contrast, satisfying your cravings for textures and flavors that differ from the soft cookies. Chocolate Milkshake: For a rich indulgence, a thick chocolate milkshake brings serious dessert vibes to enhance your cookie moment with creamy goodness. Coffee Cake: Serve alongside a slice of light coffee cake for a delightful brunch spread that turns those cookies into a full morning experience. Make Ahead Options These Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its freshness. Alternatively, you can scoop the cookie dough balls, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag for up to 3 months of storage. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop the frozen dough straight into a preheated oven—no need to thaw! This method ensures your cookies remain just as delicious, allowing you to enjoy warm, freshly baked cookies on busy weeknights with minimal effort. Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations Feel free to get creative and make this delightful cookie recipe your own with these fun twists! Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free treat. A simple swap allows everyone to enjoy these cookies without worry, proving that gluten-free can still be scrumptious! Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or dairy-free butter in place of unsalted butter for a creamy consistency without the dairy. This option is perfect for those who are lactose intolerant, allowing you to keep the rich flavor that homemade cookies should have! Nutty Delight: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and added depth of flavor. Nuts can add a delightful contrast to the softness of the cookie, bringing a gourmet twist to a classic favorite. Chocolate Variations: Experiment with different chocolate types—semisweet, dark, or even white chocolate—for a flavor-packed experience. Combining various chocolate varieties brings a deliciously complex taste that will keep your taste buds intrigued! Sweet & Salty: A sprinkle of sea salt flakes before baking can intensify the sweetness and create a gourmet touch. This simple addition transforms your cookies into a sophisticated treat, bringing balance to the rich chocolate flavors. Fruity Twist: Swap chocolate chips for dried fruits like cranberries or cherries for a fruity alternative. Dried fruits bring a chewy texture and a burst of natural sweetness that creates a refreshing balance with the cookie’s base. M&M’s Option: Replace chocolate chips with M&M’s for a colorful and fun cookie, perfect for kids and playful gatherings. This vibrant substitution adds a pop of color and texture, making your desserts even more enticing. Chili Chocolate: For those who love a kick, add a pinch of chili powder to the dough for a surprising heat in your cookies. This daring twist can elevate the chocolate’s richness, creating a uniquely spicy treat that adventurous eaters will love. As you explore the world of cookies, let these variations guide you! Whether you’re enjoying them alongside a warm glass of milk or experimenting with flavors, these Chocolate Chip Cookies are sure to bring joy to your kitchen. For something a little different, consider pairing these with our No-Bake Chocolate Cheesecake for the ultimate dessert experience! Expert Tips for Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies Avoid Overbaking: Cookies should have soft centers when removed from the oven. Overbaking leads to dry cookies; aim for golden edges. Chill the Dough: Consider chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps enhance flavors and maintain cookie shape. Mix Chocolate Types: Feel free to combine semisweet, dark, and milk chocolate chips for a richer, more complex flavor in your Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies. Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies. Experiment with Add-Ins: Add nuts or a sprinkle of sea salt before baking to elevate flavors and textures in your cookies. Storage Tips: For the best freshness, store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze for long-term enjoyment. Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best chocolate chips for my cookies? Choosing chocolate chips depends on your flavor preference! Semisweet chocolate chips are classic and provide balanced sweetness, while dark chocolate offers a richer flavor. For a sweeter result, use milk chocolate. You can also mix different types for a unique taste experience—pairing semisweet and dark chocolate adds complexity! How should I store Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies? To keep your cookies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’d like to keep them longer, freeze them in a resealable plastic bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the bag with the date! Can I freeze Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies? Absolutely! To freeze, allow the cookies to cool completely first. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking? If your cookies are spreading too much, it may be due to warm dough or too much butter. Make sure to chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. If the cookies are still too flat, consider adding a tad more flour to the dough next time. This will help them hold their shape better! Are there any dietary substitutions I can make for this recipe? Absolutely! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For a dairy-free version, replace the unsalted butter with coconut oil or dairy-free butter. Just keep in mind that this may change the flavor slightly, but they will still be delicious! How can I tell when my cookies are done baking? To achieve that perfect chewy texture, look for golden edges and soft centers. The cookies should be slightly underbaked when you take them out—this will allow them to continue cooking on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. If they look too golden, they might end up dry! Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies for Ultimate Comfort Delight in Joanna Gaines Chocolate Chip Cookies, offering comforting, nostalgic flavors perfect for sharing and customizing with your favorite chocolate varieties. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 32 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertsCuisine: AmericanCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Dough2 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour blend1 cup Unsalted Butter Can be swapped with coconut oil or dairy-free butter1/2 cup Granulated Sugar For softer cookies, use light brown sugar as well1 cup Light Brown Sugar Key ingredient for chewy texture2 cups Chocolate Chips (Semisweet/Milk/Dark) Can mix with chunks of chocolate bars or white chocolate pieces1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda1/2 teaspoon Salt2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract2 large Eggs Essential for bindingOptional Toppings or VariationsSea Salt Flakes For enhancing sweetnessChopped Nuts (e.g., Walnuts or Pecans) For added crunchAlternative Chocolate Varieties M&M's or dried fruits for a twist Equipment Ovenmixing bowlselectric mixerbaking sheetsparchment paperspatulacookie scoop Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.In a small bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda until well combined.In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of unsalted butter with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of light-brown sugar for about 3 minutes.Add 1 teaspoon of salt, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 2 large eggs to the mixture, and mix well.Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.Fold in 2 cups of chocolate chips until evenly distributed.Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the cookie edges are golden and the centers appear soft.Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 2gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 24mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesChill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking for enhanced flavor. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!