Uncovering the Secret Toll House Cookie Recipe!
Cookies are a favorite amongst children and adults alike. Nothing says comfort like a warm cookie straight out of the oven, paired with a cold glass of milk. One cookie that stands out amongst the rest is the Toll House cookie, a classic American treat that has been enjoyed for decades. The recipe for the Toll House cookie is so popular that it has become a household name. However, the story behind the recipe and the secrets to making the perfect Toll House cookie may surprise you.
Story Behind The Toll House Cookie Recipe
Ruth Wakefield, the owner of the Toll House Inn in Whitman, Massachusetts, was a brilliant baker who constantly experimented with her recipes. One day, while making her popular drop cookies, she ran out of baker’s chocolate. In a stroke of genius, she substituted broken bits of Nestle’s semi-sweet chocolate, which she believed would melt and disperse throughout the dough. However, much to her surprise, the chocolate chunks did not melt but kept their shape, resulting in her now-famous creation, the Toll House cookie.
The recipe became so popular that Nestle approached Ruth Wakefield in 1939, asking for permission to print the recipe on their semi-sweet chocolate packaging. In exchange, Nestle provided Ruth with a lifetime supply of chocolate. It was a win-win situation for both Nestle and Ruth. The recipe became a staple in American households and continues to be loved to this day.
Ingredients
The recipe for the Toll House cookie is relatively simple and requires only a few essential ingredients. You will need:
– 2 1/4 cups (280 grams) all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp. baking soda
– 1 tsp. salt
– 1 cup (227 grams) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup (165 grams) packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp. vanilla extract
– 2 cups (12 oz./340 grams) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup (96 grams) walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Sift the flour, baking soda, and salt into a bowl and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until combined.
5. Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using).
6. Scoop the dough onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, until the cookies are golden brown.
8. Let cool on the cookie sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Health Benefits
Despite being a sweet treat, the Toll House cookie can provide some health benefits. The recipe contains walnuts or pecans as an optional ingredient, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to reducing inflammation in the body, improving brain function, and reducing the risk of heart disease. Additionally, dark chocolate contains antioxidants that can help protect the body from free radical damage. As with all treats, moderation is key.
FAQs
Q: Can the recipe be halved?
A: Yes, the recipe can be halved.
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter?
A: Yes, you can use margarine in place of butter, but the flavor may be slightly different.
Q: Can I substitute the chocolate chips with white chocolate chips?
A: Yes, you can substitute the chocolate chips with white chocolate chips.
Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I substitute the nuts with raisins or other dried fruits?
A: Yes, you can substitute the nuts with raisins or other dried fruits.
In conclusion, the Toll House cookie recipe is a classic that has been enjoyed by many households for decades. The recipe combines simple ingredients to create a sweet treat that can provide some health benefits. The next time you’re craving a cookie, why not try making your own batch of Toll House cookies and indulge in a little nostalgia?
