Nestle Toll House cookies are a classic American treat that have been enjoyed for generations. These cookies are known for their perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making them a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you are baking for a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, Nestle Toll House cookies are sure to satisfy.
The history of Nestle Toll House cookies dates back to the 1930s, when Ruth Wakefield, owner of the Toll House Inn, invented the recipe. The recipe quickly became popular and was eventually sold to Nestle, who turned it into the iconic chocolate chip cookie we know today. The recipe has remained largely unchanged over the years, with only minor variations to suit personal tastes.
Making Nestle Toll House cookies is relatively simple, requiring only a few key ingredients and basic kitchen equipment. With a little bit of practice, anyone can master the art of making these delicious cookies. In this article, we will explore the history of Nestle Toll House cookies, the key ingredients needed to make them, the equipment required, and the steps involved in preparing them. We will also discuss variations and substitutions, serving suggestions, nutritional information, preservation and shelf life, and answer some frequently asked questions.
Key Takeaways
- Nestle Toll House cookies are a classic American treat that have been enjoyed for generations.
- The recipe dates back to the 1930s and has remained largely unchanged over the years.
- Making Nestle Toll House cookies is relatively simple, requiring only a few key ingredients and basic kitchen equipment.
History of Nestle Toll House Cookies
Nestle Toll House Cookies are a classic American cookie that has been enjoyed by generations. The recipe for these delicious cookies has a long and interesting history.
The story of Nestle Toll House Cookies begins in the 1930s when Ruth Wakefield and her husband Kenneth opened the Toll House Inn in Whitman, Massachusetts. Ruth was an accomplished chef and she created many delicious dishes for her guests. One day, she decided to make a batch of cookies by adding chopped up pieces of Nestle chocolate to her butter cookie recipe. The result was a delicious and unique cookie that became an instant hit with her guests.
Soon after, Ruth published her recipe in a local newspaper and the cookies became famous throughout the region. In 1939, Betty Crocker featured the Toll House Cookies on her popular radio show, “Famous Foods from Famous Places,” which helped spread the popularity of the cookies nationwide.
The recipe became so popular that Nestle eventually bought the exclusive rights to the recipe and the use of the Toll House name from the Wakefields in 1939. The Nestle Toll House Cookies became an instant hit and have been a favorite of cookie lovers ever since.
Today, the Nestle Toll House Cookies are available in many different varieties, including chocolate chip, peanut butter, oatmeal raisin, and more. The cookies are still made using the original recipe and are a favorite of families and cookie lovers around the world.
Key Ingredients
Flour Types
The original Nestle Toll House cookie recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which is a versatile flour that is suitable for most baking recipes. However, some bakers prefer to use bread flour or cake flour for their cookies, depending on their desired texture. Bread flour has a higher protein content, which results in a chewier and denser cookie, while cake flour has a lower protein content, which produces a more delicate and tender cookie.
Choosing the Right Chocolate
The quality of the chocolate used in the recipe can greatly affect the taste of the cookies. The original recipe calls for Nestle Toll House semi-sweet chocolate morsels, which have a rich, chocolatey flavor and a balanced sweetness. However, bakers can experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate, depending on their personal preference.
When selecting chocolate, it is important to choose a high-quality brand that uses real cocoa butter and cocoa solids, rather than vegetable oil or other substitutes. Look for chocolate that has a high percentage of cocoa solids, which will result in a richer and more intense chocolate flavor.
Butter vs. Margarine
The original recipe calls for unsalted butter, which adds a rich and buttery flavor to the cookies. However, some bakers may prefer to use margarine as a substitute, either for dietary reasons or because they prefer the taste. Margarine can produce a slightly different texture and flavor than butter, so it is important to choose a high-quality brand that is suitable for baking.
When using margarine, it is important to check the label to ensure that it has a high enough fat content to produce the desired texture. Look for margarine that has at least 80% fat, and avoid low-fat or reduced-fat varieties, which may contain added water or other ingredients that can affect the texture of the cookies.
Equipment Needed
The beauty of the Nestle Toll House cookie recipe is that it requires minimal equipment, making it perfect for beginner bakers. Here is a list of the essential equipment needed to make these delicious cookies:
Mixing Bowls
To make the Nestle Toll House cookie dough, you will need at least one large mixing bowl. It is recommended to have two mixing bowls if you plan on dividing the dough in half and making two separate batches.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurately measuring ingredients is crucial to the success of any recipe, and the Nestle Toll House cookie recipe is no exception. Make sure you have measuring cups and spoons on hand to measure out the flour, sugar, and other ingredients.
Electric Mixer
While it is possible to mix the dough by hand, using an electric mixer will make the process much easier and faster. A hand-held electric mixer is sufficient for this recipe.
Baking Sheets
You will need baking sheets to place the cookie dough on before baking. It is recommended to line the baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Oven
Of course, you will need an oven to bake the cookies in. Preheat the oven to 375°F before placing the cookies in to bake.
That’s it! With just a few basic pieces of equipment, you can make delicious Nestle Toll House cookies in no time.
Preparation Steps
Mixing the Dough
To make the original Nestle Toll House Cookie recipe, the first step is to mix the dough. In a small bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Gradually beat in the flour mixture until well combined. Finally, stir in the chocolate chips.
Baking Temperature and Time
After mixing the dough, the next step is to bake the cookies. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Drop the dough by rounded tablespoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Be sure to rotate the baking sheets halfway through the baking time to ensure even baking. Once done, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooling and Storage
Once the cookies have cooled completely, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Alternatively, they can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To freeze the cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once firm, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or plastic bag and freeze until ready to use. To thaw, simply remove the cookies from the freezer and let them come to room temperature.
Variations and Substitutions
Nestle Toll House cookies are a classic treat loved by many. While the original recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of variations and substitutions to try out. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:
Gluten-Free Adaptations
For those who are gluten intolerant or simply looking to cut back on gluten, there are a few easy swaps to make the Nestle Toll House cookie recipe gluten-free. Instead of all-purpose flour, try using a gluten-free flour blend such as almond flour or rice flour. Another option is to use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, which can be found at most grocery stores. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, such as chocolate chips, are also gluten-free.
Vegan Options
For those following a vegan diet, it’s easy to make Nestle Toll House cookies without any animal products. Simply swap out the butter for a vegan butter substitute, such as Earth Balance, and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg. To make a flax egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes gelatinous. All other ingredients, including chocolate chips, are already vegan-friendly.
Nut and Fruit Add-Ins
For those who want to add some extra flavor and texture to their Nestle Toll House cookies, there are plenty of nut and fruit add-ins to try out. Chopped nuts such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds can be added to the dough for a crunchy bite. Dried fruit such as cranberries, raisins, or apricots can also be added for a chewy texture. For a more decadent treat, try adding in some white chocolate chips or toffee bits.
Overall, the Nestle Toll House cookie recipe is versatile and can be adapted to fit a variety of dietary needs and preferences. By trying out these variations and substitutions, it’s easy to create a unique and delicious twist on a classic treat.
Serving Suggestions
The Nestle Toll House cookie recipe is a classic that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience:
1. Serve with milk
Milk is a classic pairing with cookies, and the Nestle Toll House cookie recipe is no exception. The combination of a warm, freshly baked cookie with a cold glass of milk is a match made in heaven. The milk helps to balance out the sweetness of the cookie and provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavor.
2. Add ice cream
For a decadent dessert, try serving the Nestle Toll House cookie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm cookie and cold ice cream create a delicious contrast in temperature and texture. You can even sandwich the ice cream between two cookies to make an ice cream sandwich.
3. Make cookie dough truffles
If you have leftover cookie dough, try rolling it into bite-sized truffles and coating them in chocolate. This is a fun and creative way to enjoy the classic cookie flavor in a new form. Plus, they make great gifts or party favors.
4. Pair with coffee or tea
The Nestle Toll House cookie recipe is a great accompaniment to a hot cup of coffee or tea. The rich flavor of the cookie pairs well with the bold flavor of coffee or the subtle flavor of tea. It’s the perfect way to indulge in a sweet treat while enjoying a warm beverage.
Whether you enjoy your Nestle Toll House cookies with milk, ice cream, or coffee, there’s no denying that they are a classic treat that never goes out of style.
Nutritional Information
Nestle Toll House Cookies are a classic American treat that many people enjoy. However, it is important to understand the nutritional information of these cookies before indulging.
According to Nestle Toll House’s website, a serving size of one cookie (28g) contains 140 calories, 7g of fat, 2.5g of saturated fat, 19g of carbohydrates, 12g of sugar, and 1g of protein. These values may vary depending on the type of Toll House cookie, such as chocolate chip or peanut butter.
It is worth noting that Toll House cookies are high in sugar and fat, which can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in excess. However, they can still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
For those who are concerned about their sugar intake, there are sugar-free alternatives available that use artificial sweeteners. However, it is important to note that these alternatives may have their own health risks and should be consumed in moderation.
Overall, Nestle Toll House Cookies can be a tasty treat when consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.
Preservation and Shelf Life
The Nestle Toll House Cookie dough can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 8 weeks.
To freeze the dough, shape it into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the dough balls until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed.
Baked cookies can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, the cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.
To freeze the baked cookies, allow them to cool completely and then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze the cookies until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to eat, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature for a few hours or in the fridge overnight.
It’s important to note that the texture of the cookies may change slightly after freezing, but they will still be delicious. It’s also important to label and date the containers or bags to keep track of the storage time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ingredients for the original Toll House cookie recipe from 1939?
The original Toll House cookie recipe from 1939 calls for 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 cup of unsalted butter, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, 3/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 2 large eggs, and 2 cups of semisweet chocolate chips. (source)
How can I adjust the Nestle Toll House cookie recipe to make a half batch?
To make a half batch of Nestle Toll House cookies, simply divide all the ingredients in half. For example, instead of using 2 1/4 cups of flour, use 1 1/8 cups. (source)
What is the process for making Nestle Toll House milk chocolate chip cookies?
To make Nestle Toll House milk chocolate chip cookies, simply replace the semisweet chocolate chips in the original recipe with milk chocolate chips. The rest of the recipe remains the same. (source)
Can you provide the Toll House cookie recipe measurements in grams?
Yes, the measurements for the original Toll House cookie recipe in grams are as follows: 320 grams of all-purpose flour, 5 grams of baking soda, 5 grams of salt, 226 grams of unsalted butter, 150 grams of granulated sugar, 150 grams of brown sugar, 5 grams of vanilla extract, 2 large eggs, and 340 grams of semisweet chocolate chips. (source)
How does the Nestle Toll House cookie recipe differ from the version shown on ‘Friends’?
The Nestle Toll House cookie recipe shown on ‘Friends’ is a modified version of the original recipe. The main difference is that the recipe on ‘Friends’ calls for using Nestle Toll House chocolate bars instead of chocolate chips. The recipe also includes oats and coconut, which are not in the original recipe. (source)
Is the Nestle Toll House cookie dough safe to eat raw?
The Nestle Toll House cookie dough is not safe to eat raw as it contains raw eggs, which can carry salmonella. It is recommended to bake the cookies according to the recipe instructions. (source)