We’ve all got a soft spot for classic chocolate chip cookies and our take on the Land O Lakes version brings that nostalgic comfort straight to your kitchen. Originating from a trusted dairy brand that’s been a staple in American baking for decades this recipe delivers rich buttery flavor we know you’ll love.
What sets it apart is its simple yet irresistible twist making it perfect for family gatherings or a quick treat. We’re excited to share how easy it is to whip up these chewy delights that never fail to impress.
Ingredients
To craft our irresistible Land O Lakes Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe, we select high-quality ingredients that deliver that signature buttery flavor and chewy texture we’ve come to love.
Below, we list the ingredients in the order they are typically used, with precise measurements and any necessary preparation notes for accuracy and ease.
- 1 cup Land O Lakes Butter, softened to room temperature for optimal creaming and flavor infusion
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar, providing the perfect sweetness base
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, adding moisture and a rich, caramel-like depth
- 1 large egg, at room temperature to help bind the dough effectively
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, pure variety recommended for enhanced aroma and taste
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, sifted if lumpy, to ensure a light and airy cookie
- 1 teaspoon baking soda, for the ideal rise and tender crumb
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, to balance flavors and enhance the butter’s richness
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips, high-quality for that melty, indulgent bite
- Optional: 1 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans), toasted for added crunch if desired
Required Tools and Equipment
Now that we’ve gathered our high-quality ingredients for the Land O Lakes chocolate chip cookie recipe, let’s equip ourselves with the essential tools and equipment to ensure a seamless baking process. We rely on these items to mix, shape, and bake our cookies to perfection, achieving that signature buttery texture and golden-brown finish.
To make preparation straightforward and efficient, here’s a detailed list of the Required Tools and Equipment, organized by the order of use in our recipe:
- Large mixing bowl: We use this to combine wet ingredients like softened Land O Lakes butter, sugars, egg, and vanilla extract for a smooth base.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for baking success—we recommend a set of dry measuring cups for flour and spoons for smaller quantities like baking soda and salt.
- Electric mixer or sturdy whisk: This helps us cream the butter and sugars together quickly, ensuring a fluffy dough that contributes to the cookies’ chewy consistency.
- Spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of the bowl and folding in the chocolate chips, we find a silicone spatula prevents sticking and makes mixing effortless.
- Baking sheets: Sturdy, rimmed sheets are essential for even heat distribution—we suggest using two if baking in batches to handle the dough efficiently.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: These prevent cookies from sticking and promote easy cleanup, helping us achieve perfectly shaped, non-stick results.
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon: For portioning dough into uniform sizes, we prefer a 1.5-tablespoon scoop to create consistent cookies that bake evenly.
- Oven thermometer: To guarantee precise baking temperatures, as oven variations can affect the cookies’ texture—we always use one for reliable results.
- Wire cooling rack: After baking, this allows air circulation for even cooling, preserving the cookies’ irresistible crisp edges and soft centers.
With these tools in hand, we’re set to transition smoothly into the mixing and baking steps, maximizing the flavors of our Land O Lakes chocolate chip cookies.
Instructions
We love sharing the straightforward steps for our Land O Lakes Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe, making it easy to achieve those irresistible buttery flavors and chewy textures that everyone craves.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we dive into mixing, let’s ensure all our ingredients are ready for seamless baking. Start by measuring out 1 cup of softened Land O Lakes Butter into a large mixing bowl—make sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming. In separate bowls, combine 2/3 cup granulated sugar and 2/3 cup packed brown sugar to avoid any lumps. Crack 1 large egg into a small dish and measure 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. For the dry components, sift together 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in another bowl to promote even distribution. Finally, set aside 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips and, if desired, 1/2 cup chopped nuts for added crunch. This preparation sets the stage for a smooth process and helps capture the authentic taste of our classic recipe.
Mix the Dough
Now that our ingredients are prepped, we begin mixing to create that perfect dough. In the large mixing bowl with the softened Land O Lakes Butter, use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream the butter with the granulated and brown sugars until the mixture turns light and fluffy—this takes about 2 to 3 minutes and infuses a rich, caramel-like aroma. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating on low speed until fully incorporated for a smooth, glossy blend. Gradually add the sifted flour mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined to avoid overworking the dough and keep the cookies tender. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips and nuts using a spatula, ensuring an even distribution that promises gooey pockets of chocolate in every bite.
Shape the Cookies
With the dough ready, we shape our cookies for even baking and that ideal golden finish. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and promote a crisp edge. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out about 1 1/2 tablespoons of dough per cookie, rolling it into balls for uniform size—this yields around 24 to 30 cookies depending on your scoop. Place the balls on the prepared sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading as they bake. Gently press down each ball slightly with your fingers to create a flatter shape, envisioning the way they’ll expand into soft, chewy rounds with a satisfying crunch on the edges.
Bake the Cookies
It’s time to bake and bring out the signature flavors of our Land O Lakes Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe. Preheat your oven to 375°F and position the racks in the center for even heat distribution. Slide the baking sheets into the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges turn a golden brown while the centers remain soft—this timing ensures the cookies stay chewy without drying out. Keep an eye on them as they bake, filling your kitchen with the irresistible scent of warm butter and melting chocolate that signals homemade perfection.
Cool the Cookies
After baking, we cool the cookies to lock in their texture and enhance those buttery notes. Remove the sheets from the oven and let the cookies rest on them for 2 minutes to firm up slightly. Then, transfer them to a wire cooling rack using a spatula, allowing them to cool completely for about 10 to 15 minutes. This step prevents sogginess and lets the flavors intensify, resulting in cookies that are delightfully crisp on the outside and tender inside, ready for your next indulgent moment.
Make-Ahead Tips
As baking enthusiasts, we often find that preparing our Land O Lakes Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe ahead of time adds flexibility to busy schedules without sacrificing that signature buttery flavor and chewy texture. These strategies help maintain the cookies’ irresistible aroma and taste, ensuring they’re ready for spontaneous treats or family gatherings.
Preparing Dough in Advance
We recommend making the dough up to 2 days ahead for optimal freshness. After mixing the dough as outlined in our step-by-step instructions, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator to preserve the rich, buttery essence. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to soften slightly. This step ensures even baking and those perfect golden edges that make these cookies so crave-worthy.
Freezing Dough for Longer Storage
For extended make-ahead options, freezing the dough is a game-changer. Shape the dough into balls as described, then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet to freeze individually for 1-2 hours until firm. Once frozen, transfer the balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months, locking in the decadent chocolate chip goodness.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration (dough) | Up to 2 days | Maintains fresh flavor and easy handling for quick baking |
| Freezing (shaped dough balls) | Up to 3 months | Preserves texture and allows for fresh-baked cookies on demand |
| Freezing (baked cookies) | Up to 3 months | Retains chewy center when thawed and reheated |
Freezing and Thawing Baked Cookies
If you’ve already baked a batch, cool the cookies completely on the wire rack before freezing. Arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. Frozen baked cookies last up to 3 months and can be thawed at room temperature for 30 minutes or warmed in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to restore their warm, melt-in-your-mouth appeal. This method keeps the cookies’ Land O Lakes-inspired buttery richness intact, making them taste as if they were just pulled from the oven.
For the best results, always use high-quality ingredients like Land O Lakes Butter to ensure your make-ahead cookies deliver that irresistible crunch and gooey center every time.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Land O Lakes chocolate chip cookie recipe, as it’s a timeless favorite that brings joy to every bite. It’s perfect for creating memorable moments with family and friends.
Remember, baking these cookies lets us savor that buttery goodness and chewy texture anytime. We’re confident you’ll make it a go-to treat in your kitchen.
Give it a try and let the simple pleasure of homemade baking brighten your day!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this chocolate chip cookie recipe special?
This recipe, inspired by Land O Lakes, stands out for its rich, buttery flavor and chewy texture that makes it perfect for family gatherings or quick treats. It uses high-quality ingredients like Land O Lakes Butter to deliver a simple yet irresistible taste that impresses every time.
What ingredients are needed for the Land O Lakes chocolate chip cookies?
You’ll need softened Land O Lakes Butter, granulated and brown sugars, a large egg, vanilla extract, all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and semisweet chocolate chips. Optionally, add chopped nuts for extra crunch. These ingredients ensure a signature buttery flavor and perfect chewy texture.
What tools are required to bake these cookies?
Essential tools include a large mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, an electric mixer or whisk, spatula, baking sheets, parchment paper or silicone mat, cookie scoop or tablespoon, oven thermometer, and wire cooling rack. They’re organized for easy use to achieve a seamless baking process.
How do I prepare the chocolate chip cookie dough?
Start by creaming softened Land O Lakes Butter with sugars, then add the egg and vanilla. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients—flour, baking soda, and salt—until combined. Fold in chocolate chips and nuts if desired. This creates a uniform dough ready for shaping and baking.
What’s the baking process for these cookies?
Preheat your oven to the specified temperature. Shape dough into balls and place on lined baking sheets. Bake for the optimal time to get a chewy center and golden edges. Cool on a wire rack afterward to enhance texture and flavor for the best results.
Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate it, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Shaped dough balls can also be frozen. This flexibility ensures fresh-baked cookies anytime, maintaining that delicious buttery taste from Land O Lakes Butter.
How should I store the baked cookies?
Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature to keep the chewy texture intact. Using high-quality ingredients like Land O Lakes Butter helps preserve flavor.