Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key to ensuring a soft and chewy texture.
2. Add the granulated sugar to the butter and cream cheese mixture and continue to mix until it’s well combined.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the cookie’s texture.
3. Fold in the semisweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

1. Scoop about 1 1/2 tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheet. Space the dough balls about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
2. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This helps them set and makes them easier to transfer.
3. After 5 minutes, move the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.