As the summer days start to fade and the school bells ring once again, I find myself craving the comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through my kitchen. There’s something magical about baking, especially when it comes to making Back to School Cookies. These soft, chewy chocolate chip cookies are not just a treat; they are a celebration of new beginnings and the perfect way to welcome the school year. Plus, they make for delightful School Treats that kids will love after a long day of learning!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
Soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth.
Great for school snacks, lunchboxes, or after school treats.
Customizable with your favorite mix-ins!
Perfect for baking with kids, creating fun memories together.

Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to baking success! Here’s what you’ll need for these delightful cookies:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups chocolate chips

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—baking these scrumptious cookies!

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
In a large bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy (about 3 minutes).
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix.
Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
Scoop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time:

For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dry ingredients.
Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking for thicker cookies.
Experiment with different types of chocolate chips—dark, milk, or even white chocolate!
Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes, ensuring even baking.
Don’t overbake! The cookies will continue to cook on the baking sheet after you take them out of the oven.

How to Serve

These Back to School Cookies are perfect for any occasion! Serve them warm with a glass of milk for a classic treat, or pack them in your kids’ lunchboxes for a delightful surprise. They also make a great addition to any after-school snack spread. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider pairing them with some easy pasta recipes for a fun and casual meal. Think creamy garlic pasta or other 30-minute meals that will keep everyone satisfied!

Make Ahead and Storage

If you want to get a head start on your baking, you can prepare the cookie dough in advance. Just scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. These cookies can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week—if they last that long!

So, as we embrace the hustle and bustle of the school year, let’s make it a little sweeter with these Back to School Cookies. They’re not just cookies; they’re a way to create memories, celebrate new beginnings, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Happy baking!