Ingredients

½ cup (113g) unsalted butter (melted)

⅓ cup (67g) granulated sugar

½ cup (100g) packed brown sugar

½ cup ice cream (use your favorite flavor, see note)

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ teaspoon baking soda

¼ teaspoon salt

2 cups (248g) all-purpose flour

2 cups (310g) chocolate chips (or a combination of white and chocolate chips)

Instructions

Step 1: Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Pour it into an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. While still hot, add both sugars and mix on low until combined. Add the ice cream and mix until smooth.

Step 2: Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing for just a few seconds. Then add baking soda and salt. Mix until smooth, followed by adding the flour slowly. Mix the dough just until it comes together, then stir in the chocolate chips.

Step 3: Scoop 2-tablespoon balls of dough onto a cookie sheet covered with wax paper. There’s no need to space them out as you will chill the dough balls. Cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Step 4: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chilled cookie dough balls 2 inches apart on cookie sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. If the dough has been chilled longer than 4 hours, gently press down each ball with the palm of your hand to help them flatten. Bake for about 9-11 minutes until golden around the edges. Cool on the baking sheet for at least 5 minutes before transferring to a rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze them for up to 1 month.

Tips & Variations

Use your favorite ice cream flavor to customize the cookie taste—vanilla, chocolate, or even mint chip work wonderfully.

For extra chewiness, do not overmix the flour into the dough.

Try mixing white chocolate chips or chopped nuts with the chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

If the dough is too soft after melting the butter, chilling longer helps it hold shape better while baking.

FAQs

Can I use any flavor of ice cream in these cookies?

Yes, any flavor works, but keep in mind that stronger flavored ice creams will impart their taste to the cookies. Vanilla is a safe classic choice, while fruit or nut flavors can create interesting variations.

Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

Chilling the dough balls helps the cookies hold their shape and improves texture by solidifying the butter and ice cream fats. It’s recommended to chill for at least 30 minutes before baking.