Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies with Sea Salt and Toasted Pecans

These classic chocolate chip cookies are elevated with a sprinkle of sea salt and the rich, nutty flavor of toasted pecans. The combination of chewy cookie texture with melty chocolate and a hint of salt creates a delightful balance of flavors. Perfect for dessert or as a sweet snack, they meet dietary preferences by being nut-free and easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped
• Flaky sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips and toasted pecans.
7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
8. Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft.
10. Allow to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.