A soft and chewy twist on the classic treat, these yogurt chocolate chip cookies are made with Greek yogurt for added moisture and a slight tang. They’re lighter than traditional cookies but still packed with sweet, chocolatey flavor, making them a perfect guilt-free dessert or snack.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, Greek yogurt, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract to the mixture and beat until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a dough forms.
- Fold in chocolate chips evenly.
- Scoop tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden and centers are set.
- Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 160 per cookie
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Sugar: 14g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber:1g
Why Use Greek Yogurt in Cookies?
Greek yogurt is a fantastic ingredient for baking because it adds moisture and richness without the added fat of more butter or oil. In cookies, it helps achieve a soft, chewy texture and introduces a subtle tang that enhances flavor complexity. It’s also high in protein, making it a healthier alternative to traditional fats.
Healthier Baking Alternatives
Replacing a portion of butter with Greek yogurt cuts down on saturated fats and calories. This is ideal for those seeking lighter desserts without sacrificing taste or texture. It’s one of the easiest swaps that even beginners can try without drastically altering a recipe’s structure.
Texture Benefits from Yogurt
Cookies made with Greek yogurt tend to be more tender and cakier. The added moisture prevents the cookies from drying out and helps maintain softness over several days, unlike some traditional cookies that can harden after cooling.
How Yogurt Affects Flavor
While yogurt is known for its tang, it doesn’t overpower the sweetness of these cookies. Instead, it enhances the overall flavor profile, balancing the rich, sweet notes of brown sugar and chocolate with a gentle tartness that adds depth.
Chocolate Chip Selection Tips
Using semi-sweet chocolate chips keeps the cookies from becoming overly sweet. However, the recipe can easily be adapted with dark chocolate for a bolder flavor or milk chocolate for extra sweetness. Mini chips distribute more evenly while chunks create gooey pockets of melted chocolate.
Storing Yogurt Cookies Properly
To keep cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Always allow frozen cookies to come to room temperature before serving.
Making the Dough Ahead of Time
This dough can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 48 hours. Chilling the dough helps deepen the flavor and creates thicker cookies because the fats are more solid and don’t spread as quickly in the oven.
Adjusting Sweetness Levels
If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the granulated sugar slightly without affecting the structure too much. You can also experiment with sugar alternatives like coconut sugar or maple syrup, though you may need to adjust flour to compensate for moisture.
Adding Mix-Ins for Variety
Beyond chocolate chips, you can mix in nuts like walnuts or pecans, dried fruits like cranberries or raisins, or even coconut flakes. This allows you to customize the recipe based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry.
Making It Gluten-Free
For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour. Make sure the yogurt and chocolate chips you use are certified gluten-free as well. The result will still be delicious and satisfyingly chewy.
Using Whole Wheat Flour Instead
If you’re looking to increase the fiber and nutrients, try using whole wheat flour for half or all of the all-purpose flour. The flavor will be slightly nuttier and the texture a bit denser, but still tasty and wholesome.
Perfect for Kids and Lunchboxes
These cookies are a great addition to lunchboxes or after-school snacks. They have a balanced sweetness and feel indulgent while being made with more wholesome ingredients, making them a parent-approved treat.
Great for Holiday Baking
The soft and chewy texture, paired with rich chocolate flavor, makes these cookies an excellent addition to any holiday cookie platter. You can even dress them up with colored sprinkles or festive add-ins like crushed peppermint or cinnamon.
No Mixer Needed
This recipe can be made entirely by hand using a sturdy spoon and a couple of bowls. That makes it perfect for quick baking sessions when you don’t feel like pulling out a stand mixer. It also means fewer dishes to clean afterward.
Making Mini Cookies for Parties
By scooping smaller portions of dough, you can make bite-sized cookies perfect for serving at parties or events. These smaller cookies bake faster and are easier to portion for a crowd.
Ideal for Beginner Bakers
The simplicity of the recipe makes it great for beginners. There are no complex techniques involved, and the ingredients are all pantry staples. Even if you’ve never baked cookies before, this recipe is a great place to start.
Kid-Friendly Baking Activity
Making these cookies can be a fun activity with children. They can help measure ingredients, mix the dough, and scoop out cookies. It’s a great way to introduce them to baking while creating something delicious together.
Customizing with Spices
For a twist, consider adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of espresso powder to enhance the flavor. These additions give the cookies a unique warmth and complexity, especially during cooler months.
Pairing with Beverages
These cookies pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk, a hot cup of coffee, or even tea. Their chewy texture and chocolatey richness complement a variety of drinks, making them versatile for any time of day.
Conclusion
Yogurt chocolate chip cookies offer a wonderful balance between indulgence and nutrition. The Greek yogurt creates a moist, tender cookie that stays soft for days, while also contributing to a slightly healthier profile. Whether you’re baking for your family, prepping snacks for the week, or preparing a festive treat, this recipe provides a dependable and delicious option.
