I’ve always loved the irresistible charm of Tates Bake Shop cookies—their perfect balance of crispy edges and chewy centers makes them a favorite treat. But sometimes, grabbing a fresh batch from the store isn’t feasible. That’s why I decided to create my own Tates copycat recipe, so you can enjoy these delicious cookies right at home.
Ingredients
- 2 1⁄4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3⁄4 cup granulated sugar
- 3⁄4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Equipment
Creating these perfect Tates copycat cookies requires the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing bowls – Choose a large one for combining your ingredients easily.
- Electric mixer or hand whisk – To cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Precision is key for the perfect texture and flavor.
- Spatula – For scraping down the sides of your bowls and mixing the dough.
- Baking sheets – Ensure even baking by using sturdy, quality sheets.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats – Prevents cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Cooling racks – Allow your cookies to cool properly, maintaining their chewy centers and crispy edges.
- Cookie scoop – For uniform cookie sizes and even baking.
Having these tools on hand will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable, bringing you one step closer to delicious, homemade Tates-style cookies.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing these Tates-style cookies ahead of time not only saves you time but also ensures you always have a delicious treat on hand. Here’s how I like to plan ahead for baking perfection:
Preparing the Dough in Advance
- Mix the Dough: Follow the recipe steps to combine all ingredients until smooth.
- Chill the Dough: Scoop the dough into uniform balls using a cookie scoop. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Refrigerate or Freeze:
- Refrigerate: Cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. Layer them between parchment sheets and freeze for up to 3 months.
Baking from Chilled or Frozen Dough
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to the specified temperature in the recipe.
- Prepare Baking Sheets: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- Arrange the Dough:
- Refrigerated Dough: Place the chilled dough balls directly onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them evenly.
- Frozen Dough: No need to thaw! Place the frozen dough balls on the baking sheets, adding a couple more minutes to the baking time.
- Bake: Follow the baking time in the recipe, keeping an eye on the cookies until the edges are golden and the centers are chewy.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to cooling racks.
Storing Baked Cookies
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 1 week | Keep in an airtight container for freshness. |
| Freezing Baked Cookies | Up to 3 months | Let cookies cool completely. Store in freezer bags with parchment between layers. Thaw at room temperature before serving. |
Directions
Let me walk you through the steps to create those irresistible Tates-style cookies at home. Follow these directions to achieve crispy edges and chewy centers every time.
Prep
- Gather Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to ensure even baking and easy cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set the mixture aside for later use.
Cook
- Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar together until creamy and smooth, about 2 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract until the dough is well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Assemble
- Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out rounded balls of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Chill Dough (Optional)
For thicker cookies, refrigerate the dough balls for 15 minutes before baking. This step enhances the chewy texture.
- Bake Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are just set.
- Cool Cookies
Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the cookies to set perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
I love pairing my Tates Copycat Cookies with a variety of delightful accompaniments to elevate your snacking experience. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve these irresistible treats:
Classic Milk and Cookies
There’s nothing quite like the timeless combination of cookies and a cold glass of milk. The creamy texture of the milk perfectly balances the crunchy edges and chewy centers of the cookies, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
Take your cookies to the next level by turning them into ice cream sandwiches. Slice a generous scoop of your favorite ice cream—vanilla, chocolate, or even caramel—and place it between two warm cookies. The melting ice cream adds a luscious creaminess that complements the rich chocolate chips.
Dessert Platter
Create an elegant dessert platter by arranging the cookies alongside fresh fruits, nuts, and a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. This presentation not only looks stunning but also offers a variety of flavors and textures for everyone to enjoy.
Coffee Pairing
Enjoy your cookies with a freshly brewed cup of coffee. The robust flavors of the coffee enhance the sweetness of the cookies, making for a perfect afternoon treat or a delightful end to your meal.
Gift Boxes
Pack these cookies into beautiful gift boxes for birthdays, holidays, or just to show someone you care. Add a personalized note and perhaps a few decorative elements like ribbons or stickers to make the gift extra special.
Flavor Enhancements
For an extra twist, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking or mixing in different types of chocolate chips, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate. These small changes can create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste preferences.
Enjoy with a Beverage of Choice
Whether you prefer herbal teas, hot cocoa, or sparkling water, these cookies make a versatile companion for any beverage. Experiment with different drinks to find your perfect pairing.
By exploring these serving suggestions, you can enjoy your Tates Copycat Cookies in various delightful ways, making each bite a memorable experience.
Tips and Tricks
Mastering the perfect Tates Copycat Cookies involves a few key techniques that elevate your baking game. Here are my top tips to ensure your cookies turn out just like the originals:
1. Chill the Dough
- Why Chill? Refrigerating the dough allows the flavors to meld and the fat to solidify, resulting in thicker, chewier cookies.
- How Long? Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. For best results, refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
2. Measure Ingredients Accurately
- Flour: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid compacting.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter at room temperature for optimal creaming with sugars.
3. Choose Quality Chocolate Chips
- Best Choice: Semi-sweet chocolate chips provide the perfect balance of sweetness and richness.
- Even Distribution: Fold the chips gently into the dough to ensure they are evenly distributed without melting.
4. Use Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mats
- Why? These surfaces prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- How? Line your baking sheets to ensure easy cookie removal and consistent edges.
5. Preheat Your Oven Properly
- Temperature Matters: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) to achieve that signature crispy edge and chewy center.
- Even Baking: Ensure the oven is fully preheated before baking to maintain the correct temperature throughout.
6. Scoop Dough Evenly
- Cookie Scoop: Use a cookie scoop to maintain uniform sizes, ensuring even baking.
- Spacing: Place scoops about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet to allow room for spreading.
7. Monitor Baking Time
- Check Early: Start checking at 10 minutes to prevent overbaking.
- Visual Cues: Cookies should have a golden edge and a slightly soft center.
8. Cool on a Rack
- Why Cool Properly? Allowing cookies to cool on a rack prevents soggy bottoms and maintains their chewy texture.
- How Long? Let them sit for at least 5 minutes before transferring to the rack.
9. Enhance Flavor with Add-Ins
- Sea Salt: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on each cookie before baking for a delightful contrast.
- Nuts: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
10. Store Correctly
- Airtight Containers: Keep cookies fresh by storing them in airtight containers at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freezing: For longer storage, place cookies in freezer bags, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Baking these Tates Copycat Cookies has been a rewarding experience for me and I hope you enjoy making them too. There’s a special satisfaction in creating your favorite treats right at home. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or savoring them with a glass of milk, these cookies are sure to bring smiles. Happy baking!
