There’s something magical about a cookie that’s soft, chewy, and packed with gooey chocolate chips—especially when it’s inspired by the legendary Mama Kelce cookies . Whether you’re baking for a game-day party or simply craving a sweet treat, these cookies are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor, it’s no wonder they’ve earned a reputation as a fan-favorite recipe.
As the secret behind Jason and Travis Kelce’s success (at least in the kitchen), Donna Kelce’s cookie recipe is all about simplicity and nostalgia. These soft chewy chocolate chip cookies bring back memories of family gatherings, cozy weekends, and, of course, game-day celebrations. The best part? You don’t need to be a professional baker to whip up a batch—this recipe is as easy as it gets.
Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just someone who loves a good cookie, these Mama Kelce chocolate chip cookies are sure to become a staple in your home. Ready to bake like Donna Kelce herself? Let’s get started!
Quick Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 24 cookies
Nutritional Information (per cookie):
Calories: 120 | Fat: 6g | Carbs: 16g | Sugar: 9g | Protein: 2g
Key Equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk and spatula
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (160g) packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 cups (340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
This quick guide ensures you can whip up a batch of Mama Kelces cookies effortlessly. With these simple ingredients, you’re ready to bake some of the best soft chewy chocolate chip cookies around!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Baking Mama Kelce cookies is as easy as following these five simple steps. With a little care and attention, you’ll have cookies that are soft, chewy, and bursting with chocolatey goodness—just like Donna Kelce’s famous recipe.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone mats. This ensures even baking and prevents sticking. If you’re aiming for authentic Mama Kelce chocolate chip cookies , take a moment to measure your ingredients carefully—precision is key to achieving that perfect texture.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar, and cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential for achieving the soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes these chewy chocolate chip cookies so irresistible. For optimal results, use a hand mixer or stand mixer.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The vanilla adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the rich chocolate chips. For an extra touch of nostalgia, imagine Donna Kelce herself adding this step to her Donna Kelce cookie recipe !
Step 4: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt by whisking them together. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough cookies; stop as soon as the dough comes together. Fold in the chocolate chips gently to distribute them evenly throughout the dough.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Drop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers look slightly underbaked—they’ll firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, which can make them too crisp. Let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to cool before moving them to a wire rack. Cooling is crucial for achieving the perfect texture of these Mama Kelces cookies .
Expert Tips & Troubleshooting
Baking Mama Kelce cookies can sometimes present unique challenges, but with these expert tips, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any hiccups along the way.
Professional Baker Insights:
- Use Room-Temperature Butter: Softened butter is key to achieving the light, fluffy texture that makes these soft chewy chocolate chip cookies so irresistible. Avoid melting the butter, as it can lead to flat, greasy cookies.
- Don’t Skip the Brown Sugar: Brown sugar not only adds sweetness but also contributes to the soft, chewy texture. Its molasses content helps retain moisture, ensuring your cookies stay soft for days.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): If your dough feels too soft or sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and enhances the flavor.
Troubleshooting Common Issues:
- Cookies Spread Too Much: This usually happens if the butter is too soft or if there’s excess sugar. Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and measure your ingredients accurately.
- Cookies Are Too Dry: Overmixing or overbaking are common culprits. Mix until just combined, and remove the cookies from the oven when the edges are golden but the centers still look soft.
- Lack of Flavor: If your cookies taste bland, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract for extra depth. You can also use high-quality chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
Make-Ahead Instructions:
You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply scoop and bake when ready. Alternatively, freeze pre-portioned dough balls for up to 3 months—just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.
Storage Guidelines:
Keep the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For extended storage, freeze them in a single layer before moving them to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat briefly in the microwave for that fresh-baked feel.
With these tips, you’ll master the art of baking Mama Kelce chocolate chip cookies like a pro!
Variations & Customizations
One of the best things about this Mama Kelce cookies recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re catering to dietary restrictions or looking to experiment with flavors, these customizations will keep your baking exciting and unique.
Seasonal Adaptations:
- Spring/Summer: Add a hint of citrus zest (like lemon or orange) to complement the rich chocolate chips. Top with a light drizzle of white chocolate for a refreshing touch.
- Fall/Winter: Incorporate warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves for a cozy twist. Swap the semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate or peppermint-flavored chips during the holidays.
Dietary Modifications:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. These soft chewy chocolate chip cookies will still have the same irresistible texture without the gluten.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine, and use dairy-free chocolate chips. This makes these Mama Kelces cookies suitable for vegans and those with dairy sensitivities.
Flavor Variations:
- Double Chocolate Delight: Replace ¼ cup of flour with cocoa powder and add extra chocolate chunks for a rich, indulgent treat.
- Peanut Butter Bliss: Stir in ½ cup of creamy peanut butter into the dough for a nutty twist. You can also press a dollop of peanut butter into the center of each cookie before baking.
- Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies: Fold in 1 cup of rolled oats for added texture and a hearty, wholesome flavor.
Decoration Ideas:
- Press a few extra chocolate chips onto the tops of the cookies before baking for an appealing finish.
- Sprinkle coarse sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-and-salty contrast.
- Drizzle melted chocolate or caramel over the cooled cookies for a gourmet touch.
With these variations, your Donna Kelce cookie recipe can suit any occasion, season, or dietary need—ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Serving & Presentation
The way you serve and present your Mama Kelce cookies can transform them from a simple snack into a memorable experience. Whether you’re enjoying them at home or bringing them to a game-day party, here are some creative ideas to make them shine.
Plating Suggestions:
- Stacked Style: Arrange the cookies in a neat stack on a plate or cake stand. This creates height and visual appeal, perfect for dessert tables or gatherings.
- Individual Servings: Place one or two cookies on small dessert plates, accompanied by a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent touch.
- Rustic Charm: Scatter the cookies on a wooden board or slate platter alongside fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar. The contrast of colors adds a vibrant, natural look.
Accompaniment Recommendations:
- Pair your cookies with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
- Serve them alongside a glass of cold milk (dairy or plant-based) for a nostalgic nod to classic cookie-and-milk pairings.
- For a more decadent option, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies or serve them with a side of caramel sauce for dipping.
Special Occasion Presentations:
- Game-Day Goodies: Package the cookies in clear bags tied with ribbon in your favorite team’s colors for a festive touch. Include a handwritten note with the recipe for a personal touch.
- Themed Decor: Match the cookie decorations to the theme of your event—think red and green sprinkles for Christmas, pastel drizzles for Easter, or heart-shaped cookies for Valentine’s Day.
- Buffet Table Highlight: Place the cookies in a prominent spot on your dessert table, surrounded by complementary treats like brownies, cupcakes, or fruit skewers.
No matter how you choose to serve them, these soft chewy chocolate chip cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Their rich chocolate flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them a versatile addition to any setting.
Conclusion
There you have it—the ultimate guide to baking Mama Kelce cookies , soft and chewy treats that are perfect for game days, family gatherings, or anytime cravings strike. With their rich chocolate chips, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and nostalgic charm, these cookies are a testament to Donna Kelce’s legendary baking skills.
Whether you’re whipping up a batch for the big game or simply indulging in a sweet treat, these soft chewy chocolate chip cookies are sure to become a staple in your home. So grab your mixing bowl, channel your inner Donna Kelce, and get ready to bake cookies that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Happy baking, and may every bite bring joy to your day—just like Mama Kelce intended!
FAQ Section
1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter in this recipe, but opt for a high-quality brand to ensure the same rich flavor and texture. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based margarine.
2. What type of chocolate chips work best?
Semi-sweet chocolate chips are a traditional choice, but you can also try using dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips for variety. For a dairy-free option, use vegan chocolate chips to stay true to the spirit of Mama Kelces cookies .
3. Why do my cookies spread too much?
Cookies spread too much if the butter is too soft or melted. Make sure your butter is softened but still holds its shape. Chilling the dough before baking can also help maintain the cookies’ structure.
4. Can I freeze the dough or baked cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough in pre-portioned balls for up to 3 months—just bake them straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. Baked cookies can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
5. What is the best way to store these cookies to maintain their freshness?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To maintain their soft texture, avoid stacking them directly on top of each other without parchment paper in between.
6. Can I add nuts to these cookies?
Of course! Fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for added crunch. These additions pair beautifully with the chocolate chips in these soft chewy chocolate chip cookies .
7. Are these cookies suitable for game-day parties?
Absolutely! These Mama Kelce chocolate chip cookies are perfect for game-day celebrations. Package them in festive bags or serve them on a platter for a sweet treat that everyone will love.
