How to Make Crisco Chocolate Chip Cookies

crisco chocolate chip cookies

Some of my fondest childhood memories are tied to the smell of cookies baking in the oven. I remember being five years old, standing on a stool in my grandmother’s kitchen, sneaking chocolate chips while she pretended not to notice. She always used Crisco in her cookies, swearing it made them softer and chewier than butter ever could. Decades later, I still turn to her recipe whenever I need a dose of comfort.

If you’ve never tried making Crisco chocolate chip cookies, you’re in for a treat. These cookies have the perfect balance of crispy edges and soft, gooey centers. Plus, since Crisco is cholesterol-free, it’s a great option for those looking to cut back on butter without sacrificing taste. Let’s dive into everything you need to know, from the recipe itself to the best ways to store these irresistible treats.

The Nutritional Breakdown

I know some of us like to keep an eye on what we’re eating, even when indulging in sweets. While Crisco chocolate chip cookies are definitely a treat, they can still fit into a balanced lifestyle when enjoyed in moderation. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutrition per cookie (size may vary):

  • Calories: 120-140
  • Total Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg (since Crisco is cholesterol-free!)
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Sugars: 12g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Fiber: 0.5g

One of the biggest benefits of using Crisco is the consistency it provides. It helps create that bakery-style texture that makes every bite just as good as the last.

The Ultimate Crisco Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe

Now that we’ve covered the basics, it’s time to get baking. No matter your skill level, this easy-to-follow recipe will deliver perfect results every time.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Crisco shortening (butter-flavored works best for a richer taste)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature for better mixing)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (sifted for the best texture)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or more, because why not?)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Always preheat your oven before baking to ensure even cooking.
  2. Cream together the Crisco and sugars. Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the Crisco, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key to creating soft cookies.
  3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract. Beat in one egg at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
  4. Combine the dry ingredients in a separate bowl. Sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—overworking the dough can lead to tough cookies.
  5. Fold in the chocolate chips. Use a spatula to gently mix in the chocolate chips. This ensures they’re evenly distributed without overmixing the dough.
  6. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet. Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop evenly sized portions onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
  7. Bake for 8-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them! The edges should turn golden brown while the centers stay soft.
  8. Cool before devouring. Let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for two minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Store Crisco Chocolate Chip Cookies

Now that you’ve baked up a batch, let’s make sure they stay fresh for as long as possible.

At Room Temperature:

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. To keep them extra soft, try adding a slice of bread to the container—this helps maintain moisture.

In the Refrigerator:

If you need them to last longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 10 days. Just let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing Options:

Both baked cookies and cookie dough freeze beautifully.

  • For baked cookies: Place them in a freezer-safe container in a single layer, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a fresh-from-the-oven experience.
  • For cookie dough: Scoop portions onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough on a baking sheet and add a minute or two to the baking time.

Why Crisco Makes a Difference

What makes Crisco chocolate chip cookies stand out from other recipes? It’s all about the shortening. Unlike butter, which contains water, Crisco is pure fat. This means you get cookies that are higher-rising, softer, and less prone to spreading too much. The result? A bakery-style cookie with crispy edges and a delightfully chewy center.

Create Memories with Flavorful Cookies

Baking cookies is more than just following a recipe—it’s about creating memories. Whether you’re making these for a holiday gathering, a bake sale, or just a cozy night in, Crisco chocolate chip cookies are guaranteed to be a hit.

So, the next time you find yourself craving a homemade treat, give this recipe a shot. I’d love to hear how they turn out! Do you have any personal twists you like to add? Maybe a sprinkle of sea salt on top or a mix of different chocolate chips? Share your baking stories in the comments below!