In a small bowl, cream butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
Mix in vanilla extract and milk until smooth.
Stir in flour and salt to form a soft dough. Add a few drops of milk if too dry.
Fold in chocolate chips, reserving some to press on top.
Chill dough for 15 minutes in the fridge. Preheat oven to 170°C (340°F) and line a small tray.
Shape dough into a ball, place on tray, and flatten slightly.
Bake for 12–14 minutes until edges are golden but center soft.
Optional: While warm, use a cookie cutter or mug to shape it into a perfect circle.
Cool 5–10 minutes before enjoying.
Air Fryer Option: Bake at 170°C (340°F) for the same time — no need to preheat the whole oven!
Notes
Butter: Make sure your butter is softened, not melted. If it’s too soft, the cookie may spread more than desired.
Milk: Just enough to bring the dough together. If the dough feels crumbly, add 2–3 extra drops.
Chilling (optional): You can bake right away, but a quick 15-minute chill in the fridge will help control spreading and give a slightly chewier center.
Chocolate chips: Use a mix of dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips for extra flavor. Chunks or chopped chocolate also work great.
Round cookie hack: While the cookie is still warm, place a large cookie cutter or mug over it and swirl gently in circles for a perfectly round bakery-style cookie.
Air fryer tip: Works the same as the oven. Just line the basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Serving: Best enjoyed warm when the chocolate is melty, but it stays soft even after cooling.