Step-by-Step Instructions:

• Preheat Your Oven:
• Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and get those perfect golden edges.
• Mix the Wet Ingredients:
• In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and slightly fluffy. This step is key for that perfect cookie texture! Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, and mix until fully combined.
• Combine the Dry Ingredients:
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This helps distribute the leavening agents evenly, so your cookies rise just right.
• Bring It All Together:
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix—just stir until no flour streaks remain. Then, fold in the chocolate chips (or your favorite mix-ins).
• Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended):
• For thicker, chewier cookies, chill the dough in the fridge for 10-15 minutes. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
• Scoop and Bake:
• Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft.
• Cool and Enjoy:
• Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely (or enjoy them warm—we won’t tell!).