Toll house cookie recipe
Table of Contents
Introduction : Toll house cookie recipe
There’s something timeless about the Nestlé Toll House cookie recipe—those crispy edges, gooey chocolate centers, and that comforting aroma that fills your kitchen. Whether you’re baking with your kids on a Sunday morning or prepping a quick batch for a midweek sweet breakfast, these cookies deliver warm, nostalgic joy in every bite.
I’ve always believed that the best recipes are the ones that feel like home. And this one? It’s foolproof. Simple and quick, using common ingredients typically found in most pantries. Whether you’re in the United States or Canada, this recipe works perfectly with your local ingredients—because great cookies know no borders.
So grab your chocolate chips, preheat your oven, and let’s bring a little happiness to your kitchen. And hey—if you’ve got a favorite cookie memory or a twist on this classic, I’d love to hear it in the comments!
Why Choose This Recipe
Let’s be honest—chocolate chip cookies are everywhere. But the Nestlé Toll House cookie recipe? That’s the original legend. It’s the recipe that sparked a worldwide cookie craze, and for good reason. Here’s why this recipe earns a lasting place in your baking collection :
Tried, Tested, and Timeless
This isn’t just another chocolate cookie—it’s the cookie. With the perfect balance of crispy edges and chewy centers, this homemade chocolate chip cookie recipe has stood the test of time since the 1930s.
Family-Friendly and Foolproof
Whether you’re just starting out or have years of baking experience, this recipe delivers every time :
- Simple to follow
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Ideal for baking with kids or creating a quick sweet breakfast treat
No fancy equipment or techniques—just real, easy chocolate chip cookies made with love.
Quality You Can Taste
Using Nestlé chocolate chips ensures that every bite melts just the right way. But if you prefer:
- Dark chocolate for richness
- White chocolate for contrast
- Or even chunks for a rustic feel
…the base recipe welcomes your creativity.
Why You’ll Come Back to It
Once you bake this, you’ll understand. It’s not just about the cookie—it’s about the memory it creates. Whether you’re hosting, gifting, or just indulging, this recipe never disappoints.
So if you’ve ever thought, “I want a go-to chocolate chip cookie that always works,”—this is it.
Let’s move on and get your kitchen smelling like heaven.
Here’s a clear and attractive recipe summary table for the Nestlé Toll House Cookie Recipe, ideal for readers seeking quick and essential details at a glance:
Nestle Toll House Cookie Recipe – Summary Table
Recipe Details | |
Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
Cooking Time | 9–11 minutes per batch |
Total Time | Approx. 25–30 minutes |
Portions | 36 cookies (standard size) |
Calories (per cookie) | ~140 kcal (depending on portion size) |
Recipe Category | |
Course | Dessert / Snack |
Cooking Method | Baking |
Difficulty Level | Easy |
Type of Dish | American Classic Cookie |
Skill Level | Beginner-friendly |
Focus on Ingredients and Equipment
Before diving into the magic of baking, let’s get everything ready. Trust me, having your ingredients and tools prepped makes the process smoother—and more enjoyable! Think of this as your little mise en place moment, the foundation of a perfect Nestlé Toll House cookie recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This is the heart of your toll house chocolate chip cookie recipe—each ingredient brings its own charm. Here’s what you’ll need for a classic batch of about 24 cookies:
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 ¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour – spooned and leveled for accuracy
- 1 tsp baking soda – gives cookies that light lift
- 1 tsp salt – balances the sweetness
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks / 226g) unsalted butter, softened – for that tender, buttery texture
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar – crisp edges start here
- ¾ cup (165g) packed brown sugar – brings moisture and depth
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract – always go for the real deal
- 2 large eggs – room temperature is best for even mixing
Mix-Ins:
- 2 cups (340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips (Nestlé Toll House or your preferred brand)
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional) – walnuts or pecans add crunch and warmth
💡 ChocoChefAI Tip: Want ultra-gooey centers? Try adding a handful of chopped melted chocolate into the dough right before baking.
Equipment Checklist
Nothing fancy here—just reliable tools that make baking feel effortless:
- Large mixing bowl (or stand mixer with paddle attachment)
- Medium bowl (for dry ingredients)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Cooling rack
Ingredient Swap Ideas
Whether you’re missing something or just want to switch it up:
- No brown sugar? Use all white sugar + 1 tbsp molasses for depth.
- Dairy-free? Swap butter with plant-based margarine.
- Health boost? Sub half the flour with whole wheat for a nuttier bite.
Once your station’s set, your butter is soft, and your chocolate chips are calling… it’s time to mix some cookie dough magic. Let’s move on to the step-by-step process that’ll make your kitchen smell like pure comfort.
Preparation Steps in Detail
Now that your ingredients are ready and your kitchen smells like anticipation, let’s walk through this step-by-step. Making this Nestlé Toll House cookie recipe is easier than you think—and way more rewarding than store-bought dough. Whether you’re new to baking cookies or a seasoned pro, these steps will guide you to homemade chocolate chip cookies with that perfect golden edge and soft, gooey center.
1. Preheat and Prep

- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for even baking and easy cleanup.
✨ Pro ChocoChefAI Tip: Tip: Preheating is key! It helps the cookies set correctly from the start.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- 2 ¼ cups flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
Set aside. This step keeps your dough evenly textured and your cookies balanced.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl or stand mixer:
- Beat 1 cup softened butter with
- ¾ cup granulated sugar and
- ¾ cup brown sugar
Mix for about 2–3 minutes until creamy and light. This adds air and gives the cookies their lovely texture.
💡 ChocoChefAI Tip: Room temperature butter is your best friend—cold butter won’t cream properly!
4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla
To the creamed mixture, add:
- 2 large eggs, one at a time
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Continue beating until the mixture is fully incorporated, smooth, and lightly fluffy
5. Incorporate Dry Into Wet
Slowly add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients.
- Mix on low speed or stir gently by hand to avoid overmixing.
- The dough should be soft but not sticky.
6. Fold in the Chocolate (and Nuts if Using)


Time for the stars of the show:
- Gently stir in 2 cups Nestlé chocolate chips
- Add 1 cup chopped nuts if desired
🌀 Want a bakery-style twist? Mix in a few chunks of melted chocolate for little pockets of fudgy surprise.
7. Scoop the Dough
Using a spoon or cookie scoop:
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your baking sheet
- Leave about 2 inches between cookies—they spread!
8. Bake to Perfection


Place in the center of your preheated oven and:
- Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until edges are golden and centers are still soft.
⏱️ Don’t wait for the tops to brown—cookies continue baking slightly after you take them out.
9. Cool and Enjoy
- Let cookies sit on the sheet for 2 min
- Then transfer to a cooling rack
Once they’re cool enough to handle (if you can wait that long!), enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth magic.
Batch Tip:
Want evenly sized cookies that bake at the same time? A cookie scoop is your secret weapon. No more guessing or burnt edges!
Now that your kitchen smells divine and your cooling rack is full, you’re officially a Nestlé Toll House cookie recipe champion. Let’s explore a few fun ways to customize your cookies in the next section!
ChocoChefAI Tip
Here’s where I share my secret to making your Nestlé Toll House cookie recipe truly unforgettable. Whether you’re baking these chocolate cookies for a weekend treat, a holiday tray, or simply to brighten your Tuesday, these pro tips will take them from great to legendary.
Master the Melted Chocolate Move
Want that gooey, bakery-style center? Instead of using only whole chocolate chips, try melting ¼ cup of your chocolate chips and folding it into the dough right before baking.
- This adds rich ribbons of chocolate throughout the cookie.
- Your guests will wonder how you got that luscious texture!
“It’s like biting into a chocolate lava cookie—but with the charm of a classic Nestlé favorite.”
The Salt Trick
Before baking, sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie. It enhances the chocolate’s richness and adds a touch of gourmet flair.
- Salt balances sweetness and deepens the chocolate flavor.
- Especially great if you’re using semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips.
Chill That Dough (Optional, But Game-Changing)
If you’ve got time, chill the dough for 30 minutes to 1 hour before baking. It:
- Prevents overspreading
- Intensifies the flavors
- Gives your cookies that thick, chewy bite
Chilling = bakery-level cookies at home.
Butter Wisdom
Always use real butter, not margarine. Why?
- Butter helps create those crisp golden edges and soft centers.
- Margarine contains more water and can make your cookies flat or greasy.
Customize Your Texture
- For a chewy cookie: Use more brown sugar than white sugar.
- For a crispier cookie: Use a touch more granulated sugar and bake a minute longer.
It’s all about tweaking to your taste. After all, that’s the beauty of homemade chocolate chip cookies!
Final Bite
Whether you’re baking in the United States, Canada, or anywhere in the world, these easy chocolate chip cookies are endlessly adaptable. Add your own flair, test a few tweaks, and make the recipe your own. Trust me—once you nail it, there’s no going back to store-bought.
Creative Variations to the Classic Toll House Cookie
One of the best things about the Nestlé Toll House cookie recipe is how adaptable it is. Whether you’re baking for a themed party, adding a personal twist for a loved one, or just feeling a little extra creative in the kitchen, these variations will take your chocolate chip cookies to the next level. Let’s turn this classic into your signature sweet!
1. Double Chocolate Dream
For true chocoholics, try this decadent version:
- Replace ¼ cup of flour with unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich, brownie-like cookie.
- Want a more intense chocolate flavor? Try using dark or bittersweet chips instead of semi-sweet.
- Optional: Add a handful of white chocolate chunks for contrast.
2. Peanut Butter Twist
Combine the magic of chocolate and peanuts:
- Swap ½ cup of butter with peanut butter.
- Fold in crushed roasted peanuts or mini peanut butter cups.
- After baking, give it a sweet peanut butter drizzle on top!
This version makes your homemade chocolate chip cookies taste like a peanut butter cup in cookie form.
3. Banana Breakfast Cookies
Looking for a sweet breakfast idea?
- Mash 1 ripe banana into the dough.
- Add ½ cup of rolled oats and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Reduce sugar slightly to balance the banana’s natural sweetness.
Great with a morning coffee or as a lunchbox surprise.
4. Nutty Chocolate Chip & Cookies
Add texture and warmth with your favorite nuts:
- Fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts.
- Toast the nuts lightly beforehand to bring out their oils and flavor.
- Pairs beautifully with dark chocolate chunks for a sophisticated edge.
5. Coconut Craze
A tropical spin on the classic:
- Add ½ cup of shredded coconut to the dough.
- For extra indulgence, mix in chopped macadamia nuts and white chocolate chips.
- Add a sprinkle of coconut before baking—it’ll toast up beautifully for a golden finish.
6. Holiday Magic Cookies
Make them festive for any occasion:
- Add colorful candy-coated chocolates (like M&Ms) for birthdays.
- Use red and green sprinkles or mini peppermint pieces around the holidays.
- Try pumpkin spice or dried cranberries in the fall.
Fun, vibrant, and perfect for sharing!
No matter which version you choose, every cookie carries the soul of the original Nestlé Toll House cookie recipe—with a little extra flair, just like you. Let your creativity lead the way and remember: in baking, there are no rules, just happy discoveries.
Conservation and Reuse: Keep Your Toll House Cookies Fresh
Freshly baked Toll House cookies are a joy—but knowing how to store them properly means you can enjoy their gooey centers and crispy edges days after baking. Whether you’re saving a batch for later or repurposing leftovers in creative ways, here’s how to make the most of every cookie.
How to Store Toll House Cookies
Proper storage keeps your homemade chocolate chip cookies fresh and flavorful:
- At Room Temperature (Up to 5 days)
- Store cookies in an airtight container, layering them with parchment paper.
- Store in a cool, dry place—avoid humid environments.
- Add a slice of bread inside the container to help retain moisture without making the cookies soggy.
- In the Fridge (Up to 1 week)
- Refrigeration is ideal in warmer climates or for soft-baked cookies.
- Reheat in the microwave for 10 seconds to restore the gooey texture.
- In the Freezer (Up to 3 months)
- Freeze cookies individually on a tray, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag.
- Label with date for easy tracking.
- Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for 5 minutes.
Storing Cookie Dough for Later
Want fresh chocolate cookies on demand? Store the dough!
- Refrigerated Dough (Up to 3 days)
- Seal the dough securely using plastic wrap or store it inside an airtight container.
- Bring to room temperature before baking for even texture.
- Frozen Dough Balls (Up to 2 months)
- Portion the dough into individual balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze.
- Store frozen dough balls in a zip-top freezer bag.
- When ready to bake, place the dough balls straight from the freezer onto the baking tray, adding an extra two minutes to the baking time for perfect results.
Creative Ways to Reuse Leftover Cookies
Don’t let a single bite go to waste! Here are some deliciously smart reuse ideas:
- Cookie Crumble Topping
- Crush cookies and sprinkle over ice cream, yogurt, or pancakes.
- Mix into melted chocolate and re-chill to create bark-style treats.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Sandwich a hearty scoop of creamy vanilla or rich chocolate ice cream between two cookies for an irresistible treat.
- Gently press the edges into chopped nuts or tiny chocolate chips for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
- No-Bake Cheesecake Crust
- Mix crushed cookies with melted butter and press into a pan for an indulgent cheesecake base.
- Sweet Breakfast Booster
- Crumble cookies into oatmeal or use them as a decadent topping for smoothie bowls.
Whether you’re saving a late-night snack or prepping for the next bake sale, knowing how to conserve and reinvent your Nestlé Toll House cookie recipe ensures none of that delicious effort goes to waste. Just another reason why baking cookies is always a good idea!
Conclusion: Nestle Toll House Cookies
There’s something truly magical about baking a Nestlé Toll House cookie recipe—the aroma that fills the kitchen, the anticipation as the edges turn golden, and the first bite into a warm, gooey center. It’s more than just a treat; it’s a tradition, a comfort, and a little piece of joy shared with every batch.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your homemade chocolate chip cookies journey, this recipe is a perfect place to begin. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and endless ways to personalize, it’s no wonder these chocolate cookies have stood the test of time.
Here’s What You’ve Gained:
- Clear steps and baking tips to achieve cookie perfection
- Options for storage and smart reuse to reduce waste
- Creative twists to make your batch truly unique
So, the next time you’re looking for a quick and easy recipe that brings comfort and joy, you know where to turn. Preheat the oven, grab your favorite mixing bowl, and bake a batch that’ll make everyone ask for seconds!
Ready to bake again? Explore our related recipes for even more sweet inspiration!
Related Recipes: More Delicious Chocolate Treats to Try
If you loved baking this classic Nestlé Toll House cookie recipe, you’re in for a treat! There’s a whole world of delightful chocolate cookies and sweet snacks waiting to be discovered. Here are some favorite recipes that are just as easy, quick, and packed with flavor—perfect for your next baking adventure:
1. Easy Chocolate Chip Cookies
A simple, foolproof recipe that’s perfect for beginners or when you want a quick batch of soft, chewy cookies loaded with chocolate chips. Great for any occasion!
2. Nestle Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Enjoy all the flavor of your favorite cookies, but in a convenient bar form. These are ideal for sharing at parties or packing in lunchboxes.
3. Melted Chocolate Brownies
Luxuriously rich, thick, and packed with bold chocolate taste, brownies always bring joy—and pairing them with a smooth scoop of vanilla ice cream takes the experience to a whole new level of indulgence.
4. Homemade Chocolate Chip Muffins
Start your morning sweetly with these moist muffins that combine the best of breakfast and dessert—perfect for a sweet breakfast treat.
5. ChocoChefAI’s Signature Double Chocolate Cookies
For the chocolate lovers who want to double down, these cookies are packed with both cocoa powder and chunks of melted chocolate for an intense flavor boost.
FAQs
Baking cookies can spark a lot of questions, especially when aiming for that perfect balance of crispy edges and gooey centers. Here are some of the most common queries about the Nestlé Toll House cookie recipe—answered clearly to help you master your baking skills with confidence!