Mrs. Fields Chocolate Chip Cookies

Mrs. Fields Chocolate Chip Cookies
You might remember the first time you indulged in a warm Mrs. Fields chocolate chip cookie, its rich flavor melding with the perfect chewiness that’s hard to forget. Since 1977, these cookies have enchanted many, but what makes them stand out in a sea of chocolate chip contenders? It’s not just the ingredients; there’s a history and a science behind their creation that adds layers of intrigue. Let’s investigate what really defines these beloved treats and why they continue to hold a special place in the hearts of cookie lovers everywhere.
Key Takeaways
- Mrs. Fields Chocolate Chip Cookies are renowned for their rich flavor and chewy texture, made with high-quality ingredients like chocolate chips and unsalted butter.
- The signature recipe involves creaming softened butter with sugars, adding eggs and vanilla, then mixing in the dry ingredients.
- For the best results, it’s recommended to chill the cookie dough before baking to enhance flavor and chewy consistency.
- Bake the cookies at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until the edges are lightly golden for a soft center.
- Mrs. Fields offers ongoing product variety, including triple chocolate and oatmeal raisin walnut flavors, appealing to diverse tastes.
History
In the history of Mrs. Fields, the journey began in 1977 when Debbi Fields and her husband Randy opened their first store in Palo Alto, California. This venture quickly gained attention due to the delicious homemade-style cookies.
Here are some key milestones from those early years:
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First Expansion: The first store outside California opened in Honolulu. Initially, it struggled, but adjustments eventually led to its success.
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Growth: By spring 1981, Mrs. Fields operated 14 stores. This expansion continued, and by early 1983, the count reached 70 stores, including the inaugural New York City location.
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Headquarters Shift: In 1982, the headquarters moved to Park City, Utah, achieving approximately $30 million in sales. This move provided the company with a more centralized location to manage its expanding operations and improve its chances of further growth.
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Acquisitions: Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the company acquired several brands, diversifying its offerings.
Despite various challenges, such as competition leading to store closures, Mrs. Fields adapted by introducing yogurt and coffee to the menu.
Recipe
Mrs. Fields Chocolate Chip Cookies
Indulge in the delightful taste of homemade Mrs. Fields Chocolate Chip Cookies, renowned for their rich flavor and chewy texture. This beloved recipe combines the lusciousness of real butter with the sweetness of granulated and brown sugars, creating the perfect base for your cookies. The addition of generously sized chocolate chips guarantees a melty, chocolatey experience in every bite. A stand mixer is recommended for optimal dough consistency in this recipe.
Whether you’re making these cookies for a special occasion or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, they’re easy to whip up and are certain to impress friends and family alike. With the flexibility to add your favorite chocolate varieties, you’ll find it hard to resist these irresistible treats.
Ingredients
- 1 ⅓ Cup (or 2 cups) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 Cup granulated sugar (200g)
- 1 ⅓ Cup brown sugar (285g)
- 2 Large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ¾ Cup all-purpose flour (450g)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 2 bags of chocolate chips (semi-sweet, milk chocolate, white chocolate, or peanut butter chips)
In a large mixing bowl, start by creaming the softened butter along with the granulated sugar for about 6 minutes, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl multiple times for even mixing.
Once fluffy, add the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before mixing in the brown sugar and vanilla extract; continue to cream for another 3 minutes.
Gradually add the flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing gently until just combined. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips by hand.
If desired, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
Portion the dough onto the sheets, leaving space in between, and bake for approximately 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
To improve your baking experience, consider using a combination of chocolate chips for varied flavors, such as mixing semi-sweet and white chocolate chips.
Pay close attention to measuring your ingredients accurately, as proper measurements are key to achieving consistency in your cookies.
If you prefer textural variety, you can also include rolled oats and nuts like walnuts or pecans to the dough.
Don’t forget, chilling the dough can boost the flavor and chewiness of the cookies, so if time allows, give it a go!
Enjoy the baking process and the delightful aroma that will fill your kitchen!
Final Thoughts
In regards to Mrs. Fields Chocolate Chip Cookies, you’ll find a product that strikes a pleasant balance between soft and chewy. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect:
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Quality and Taste: While generally considered good, these cookies mightn’t be remarkable. They shine in texture, sporting a soft center with chewy edges and an abundance of chocolate chips. For the best experience, warm them up to enjoy that melty chocolate goodness.
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Comparison: Many liken their taste and texture to homemade cookies, often drawing comparisons to freshly baked chocolate chip bars. However, keep in mind that they can become dry if not consumed fresh.
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Variety and Customization: Mrs. Fields offers a range of flavors, including semi-sweet chocolate, triple chocolate, and oatmeal raisin walnut. They also provide custom cookie cakes that can be personalized for special occasions, reflecting their commitment to high-quality ingredients.
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Consumer Satisfaction: These cookies often receive high ratings from buyers, making them a popular choice for gifts. They create happy memories and consistently deliver on quality, making them a reliable option for personal enjoyment or sharing with others.
FAQ
In the domain of baking Mrs. Fields chocolate chip cookies, you might’ve several questions. Here are some frequently asked questions that can help clarify your doubts.
What ingredients do I need?
- Dark brown sugar
- Granulated sugar
- Butter (salted or unsalted)
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- All-purpose flour
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (and optional mix-ins like nuts or oats)
How do I prepare the cookies?
- Cream together the butter and sugars.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract.
- Mix the dry ingredients separately, then gradually combine with the wet mixture.
- Fold in chocolate chips and any additional mix-ins.
- Chill the dough before shaping it into balls. This step is essential to achieve the desired cookie shape and texture.
What baking times should I follow?
- For chewy cookies, bake for 9-10 minutes.
- For crisper cookies, aim for 10-12 minutes.
How should I store them?
- Use airtight containers for baked cookies.
- Freeze dough balls for later use.
With these answers, you’re now well-equipped to bake delicious Mrs. Fields chocolate chip cookies!
