The best chocolate chip cookies EVER!

I love me some cookies!  I don't have a huge sweet tooth, but cookies are my weakness.  I have searched high and low for a chocolate chip cookie recipe that has just the right combination of chew and crisp, and this one hits the nail square on the head.  The increase amount of brown sugar aids in not only the rich flavor, but the chewy texture.  The melted butter is a surprise, and the first time I've seen it called for in a cookie recipe.  Whatever the purpose is, it works!

These were my dad's favorite cookies, and every time I make them, I smile at the success in finding a chocolate chip cookie recipe that truly made him happy :-)  Cookie cheers to you Dad!

Dad's favorite Chocolate Chip Cookies

2 1/8 cups of flour
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
12 Tablespoons of butter, melted and cooled slightly
1 cup of brown sugar
1/2 cup sugar
1 egg
1 egg yolk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1-2 cups of chocolate chips.

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees and place the rack in the center of the oven.

In a microwave safe bowl, melt the butter and set aside to cool slightly.  In the bowl of a mixer, place both of the sugars and butter.  Mix on medium high speed until slightly lighter in color and well incorporated.  Add the eggs and vanilla and stir to incorporate.  Add the remaining dry ingredients (except the chocolate chips) and blend well to incorporate.  Remove your bowl from the mixer and fold in the chocolate chips.

Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup to scoop out the dough and place on an un greased cookie sheet.  Bake for 15-18 minutes.

**Note: this is the perfect time to use your silpat baking mats as mentioned on the "tools" page.

Fun ideas:
Use one cup of chocolate chips and 1 cup nuts of your choice.
Use one cup of chocolate chips, 1/2 cup of toffee bits and 1/2 cup nuts of your choice.
Use one cup of chocolate chips, 1/2 cup of toffee bits, 1/2 cup of shredded coconut.
Use one cup of chocolate chips, 1/2 cup of caramel pieces and 1/2 cup of coconut.

Enjoy!