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Perfect Small-Batch Chocolate Chip Cookies for Two

small-batch chocolate chip cookies - featured image

These small-batch chocolate chip cookies are perfectly portioned for two, ready in 20 minutes, and deliver bakery-style results with crispy edges, soft centers, and pools of melted chocolate.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (about 45 grams)
  • ⅛ teaspoon baking soda
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt (a pinch)
  • ¼ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (about 40 grams)
  • Flaky sea salt for finishing (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a small baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Place 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 15-second bursts until just melted. Let cool for a minute.
  3. Add 3 tablespoons packed light brown sugar and 1 tablespoon granulated sugar to the melted butter. Whisk vigorously for about 30 seconds until smooth and slightly thickened.
  4. Add the egg yolk and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Whisk again until fully combined and smooth.
  5. Sprinkle ¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, ⅛ teaspoon baking soda, and a pinch of salt over the wet mixture. Fold gently with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Fold in ¼ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
  7. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll each into a ball and place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving at least 3 inches of space between them. Gently press the tops down slightly.
  8. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the centers look slightly underdone and puffy.
  9. Remove from the oven. If using flaky sea salt, sprinkle a small pinch over the tops. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack or enjoy warm.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature egg yolk and measure flour correctly by spooning into the cup and leveling off. If dough is too soft, chill for 10 minutes before baking. Cookies continue to bake on the hot pan, so underbake slightly for chewy centers.

Nutrition

Keywords: small batch cookies, chocolate chip cookies, cookies for two, easy cookie recipe, quick cookies