If you are ready to take your cookie game to an entirely new level, you absolutely must try these Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Twists (Soft & Bakery-Style). Imagine the classic, comforting taste of chocolate chip cookies, but with a fun twist—literally! These soft, buttery twists have golden edges and a tender center bursting with melty semisweet chocolate chips. They bring all the nostalgic joy of homemade cookies with that charming bakery-style softness we all crave. Whether it’s for a casual afternoon snack or a dazzling dessert at your next gathering, these delights will become an instant favorite.

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Twists (Soft & Bakery-Style) - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Preparing these delicious twists is surprisingly simple because the ingredients are straightforward and every single one plays a key role. From the rich, creamy butter that makes the dough soft to the perfectly balanced sugars that give just the right sweetness and the chocolate chips that add luscious pockets of flavor, it all comes together beautifully.

2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for structure and that tender crumb.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the twists rise and become beautifully soft.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and creates a tender, chewy texture.
¾ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and aids browning for golden edges.
¾ cup packed brown sugar: Gives a deep, caramel-like flavor and extra moisture.
2 large eggs: Bind everything together and provide a soft, chewy bite.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: A flavor enhancer making these twists irresistible.
1 ½ cups semisweet chocolate chips: The star ingredient that melts delightfully in each bite.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Twists (Soft & Bakery-Style)

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This step is essential to prevent sticking and ensures your twists bake evenly with those stunningly golden edges.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Setting this aside now means you’ll have everything ready to incorporate smoothly into the wet ingredients in the next steps.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with both granulated and brown sugars for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and fragrant. This step is key to that bakery-style softness and tenderness you’ll notice when taking your first bite.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, beat in the eggs one at a time. Take your time here to fully incorporate each egg before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for that beautiful aroma and warmth of flavor.

Step 5: Combine Dry with Wet

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture on a low speed, mixing just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep your twists tender and soft rather than dense or tough.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold the semisweet chocolate chips into the dough, making sure they’re evenly distributed. These chips will create those irresistible pockets of gooey chocolate that make these twists so special.

Step 7: Shape the Twists

Divide the dough into two equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a rectangle about ½ inch thick. Cut the rectangles into 1-inch wide strips, then pair two strips together, twisting them tightly like a braided rope. Pinch the ends to seal and place each twist on your prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between them so they don’t stick together as they bake.

Step 8: Bake

Bake the twists for 9 to 11 minutes until the edges turn golden brown while the centers remain soft and slightly firm to the touch. Avoid overbaking to preserve that perfect chewiness that sets these Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Twists (Soft & Bakery-Style) apart.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Remove the twists from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. This helps them set without losing any tenderness. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle melted chocolate over the twists just before serving. Trust me, it’s pure bliss!

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Twists (Soft & Bakery-Style)

Garnishes

While these twists shine on their own, a simple dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm chocolate adds a charming finish that elevates their bakery appeal. You could even sprinkle some flaky sea salt to create a magical sweet-salty surprise.

Side Dishes

Pair these tender twists with a cold glass of milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a cup of rich coffee or creamy hot chocolate. Each pairing perfectly complements the sweet, buttery flavors and melty chocolate goodness of the cookie dough twists.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or gifting, arrange your twists in a charming basket lined with colorful parchment. Wrap individual twists in clear cellophane tied with a ribbon for a personalized touch. You could also set up a dessert board with assorted toppings like nuts, sprinkles, or caramel drizzle, inviting everyone to customize their own twist experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your remaining Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Twists (Soft & Bakery-Style) in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and fresh for up to 5 days, perfect for enjoying throughout the week or sharing with friends who drop by.

Freezing

These twists freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag after they’re frozen solid. This method keeps them from sticking together and preserves their soft texture. Simply freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To enjoy them warm and melty, pop frozen or refrigerated twists in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. This quick reheat brings back that fresh-from-the-oven softness and helps the chocolate chips melt delightfully, making every bite feel like a special treat.

FAQs

Can I use brown butter instead of softened butter?

Absolutely! Brown butter will add a lovely nutty depth to your twists, making them taste extra rich and complex. Just be sure to cool the brown butter before mixing it with the sugars to avoid scrambling the eggs.

Can these twists be made gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking. Just make sure your blend contains xanthan gum or a similar binding agent to keep the twists from falling apart.

What’s the secret to getting that soft and bakery-style texture?

The key is using a mix of granulated and brown sugars combined with creaming the butter and sugars well. Avoid overbaking, and gently mix your dough to keep it tender and chewy rather than dense or crumbly.

Can I add nuts or different chocolate chips?

Definitely! These twists are versatile and welcoming of mix-ins like chopped nuts, white chocolate chips, or even toffee bits. Just fold them in with the semisweet chips for a tasty twist on a twist!

Is it necessary to twist the dough strips, or can I roll them into a log?

While rolling into a log is easier, twisting creates more surface area that crisps up beautifully and gives that charming bakery-style appearance and texture you can’t get otherwise. Plus, it’s fun to shape them!

Final Thoughts

Once you try these Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Twists (Soft & Bakery-Style), you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed chocolate chip cookies without that perfect twist. They capture the best of bakery softness combined with the classic, nostalgic flavors we all adore. So gather your ingredients, roll those strips, and treat yourself to a batch of these cozy, chewy, and utterly irresistible delights. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Twists (Soft & Bakery-Style)

Print Recipe

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Delight in the rich and buttery Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Twists, a fun and twisty take on the classic chocolate chip cookie. These treats boast a soft center with golden edges and are packed with semi-sweet chocolate chips, perfect for any cookie lover eager for a deliciously unique dessert.

Author: Mari
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt, then set aside. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with the granulated and brown sugars for 2 to 3 minutes until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, incorporating the vanilla extract afterward. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients on low speed until just combined. Finally, fold in the semisweet chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough.
Shape the Twists: Divide the dough into two equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a rectangle approximately ½ inch thick. Cut each rectangle into 1-inch wide strips. Take two strips at a time, twist them together tightly, and press the ends to seal the shape. Arrange the twists on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each to allow for spreading.
Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the twists for 9 to 11 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are firm but still soft. Be careful not to overbake to maintain the chewy texture. Remove the baking sheets and allow the twists to cool for 5 minutes directly on the sheets.
Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the twists to a wire rack to cool completely. For an extra decadent touch, optionally drizzle with melted chocolate before serving. These twists are perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cold glass of milk.

Notes

Ensure the butter is softened for easier creaming and smoother dough.
Do not overmix once adding the flour to avoid tough cookies.
Try twisting different flavored strips like adding nuts or white chocolate chips for variation.
Store the cooled twists in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheat briefly in the microwave for a warm, gooey treat.