Famous Byron Bay Chocolate Chip Cookies (crunchy 2 weeks!)

– **1 cup brown sugar**, packed (for a deep, caramelized sweetness)
– **1/2 cup granulated sugar** (for a bit of extra sweetness and crispiness)
– **2 large eggs**
– **2 ½ cups all-purpose flour** (for structure)
– **1 teaspoon baking soda** (to help the cookies spread)
– **1 teaspoon vanilla extract** (for added flavor)
– **1 teaspoon salt** (to balance the sweetness)
– **2 cups chocolate chips** (or chocolate chunks)
– **Optional**: ½ cup chopped **walnuts** or **macadamia nuts** for extra crunch

### How to Make Famous Byron Bay Chocolate Chip Cookies

Making these cookies is simple, and the results are absolutely worth it. Follow these easy steps to bake the perfect batch of **Byron Bay Chocolate Chip Cookies**:

#### Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent the cookies from sticking and to ensure even baking.

#### Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the **butter**, **brown sugar**, and **granulated sugar** using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about **2-3 minutes** until it’s light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is essential for getting a light and airy cookie texture.

#### Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the **eggs** and **vanilla extract** to the butter-sugar mixture and beat until combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated.

#### Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the **flour**, **baking soda**, and **salt**. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can result in dense cookies.

#### Step 5: Add the Chocolate Chips and Nuts
Fold in the **chocolate chips** and, if desired, **chopped nuts**. You want to make sure that the chocolate is evenly distributed throughout the dough. You can also add a bit more chocolate if you prefer your cookies extra chocolaty!

#### Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon to portion the dough into **1 ½-inch** balls and place them onto the prepared baking sheets. Make sure to space them about **2 inches apart** so they have room to spread while baking.

#### Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies for **10-12 minutes**, or until they are golden brown around the edges but still slightly soft in the center. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven. The cookies will firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem a little soft when you pull them out.

#### Step 8: Cool and Store
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about **5 minutes** before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows them to set up and firm up properly. Once they are fully cooled, store the cookies in an **airtight container** at room temperature for up to **two weeks**—they’ll stay crunchy and fresh throughout!

### Tips for Perfect Byron Bay Chocolate Chip Cookies

1. **Use Room Temperature Butter**: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before mixing. Cold butter will make it harder to cream with the sugars, which can affect the texture of the cookies.
2. **Measure Flour Correctly**: Too much flour can make the cookies dry and crumbly. Be sure to **spoon and level** your flour when measuring to avoid adding too much.
3. **Chill the Dough (Optional)**: If you have the time, chill the cookie dough for **30 minutes** before baking. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape better and results in a thicker cookie with a slightly chewier center.
4. **Don’t Overbake**: These cookies are meant to be crispy, but they shouldn’t be overbaked. Keep an eye on them and take them out as soon as the edges turn golden brown.
5. **Add More Chocolate**: If you love a more decadent cookie, consider adding extra chocolate chips or chunks. Feel free to even mix in a combination of **dark** and **milk** chocolate for different flavor profiles.

### Why This Recipe Works

– **Perfect Crunch**: The balance of butter and sugar gives these cookies the perfect crunchy texture without being too hard. The use of brown sugar also helps to create that deep, caramelized flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate.
– **Simple Ingredients**: These cookies are made with everyday ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. No special trips to the store are required—just grab your basics and get baking!
– **Long-Lasting Freshness**: Unlike many cookies that soften after a day or two, these Byron Bay Chocolate Chip Cookies stay wonderfully crisp for up to **two weeks** if stored properly. This makes them perfect for meal prep or gifting.

### Serving Ideas

– **With Milk**: These cookies are the ultimate pairing for a tall glass of **cold milk**. The creamy milk complements the crispy, chocolatey cookies in the most delicious way.
– **As a Gift**: Pack these cookies in a cute jar or tin and give them as a homemade gift. They make a great treat for birthdays, holidays, or just because.
– **On Their Own**: These cookies are perfect for enjoying on their own as a snack or dessert. Their crunchiness and sweet, chocolatey flavor make them irresistible at any time of day.

### Conclusion

**Famous Byron Bay Chocolate Chip Cookies** are the perfect blend of crunch, sweetness, and chocolatey goodness. With their rich, buttery flavor and generous amount of chocolate, they’re bound to become a favorite in your household. Plus, they stay crunchy for up to **two weeks**, so they’re perfect for enjoying throughout the week or sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re making them for yourself or as a gift, these cookies will bring a little taste of Byron Bay into your kitchen. So, grab your ingredients and get baking—you won’t be disappointed!