Greek Yogurt Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you love cookies, chances are you’ve baked a classic chocolate chip cookie or two. But have you ever tried Greek yogurt chocolate chip cookies? These cookies are soft, tender, and have a subtle tang from the Greek yogurt, and even my kids, who usually don’t like yogurt, have no idea there is yogurt in these!

They’re a unique twist on a beloved classic that’s perfect for busy families, afternoon treats, or just a cozy baking day. Not only do these cookies taste incredible, but they’re also a little bit healthier than traditional chocolate chip cookies thanks to the addition of Greek yogurt. Plus, if you enjoy homemade ingredients, try making them with homemade Greek yogurt for a fresh, tangy base that elevates these cookies even further. And if you want a classic option, my vintage chocolate chip cookie recipe is a chewy, nostalgic favorite.

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Why Use Greek Yogurt in Cookies?

Many bakers wonder, “Why should I add Greek yogurt to cookies?” The answer comes down to texture, flavor, and nutrition.

1. Texture and Moisture

Greek yogurt adds moisture to cookie dough without making it greasy. This results in a soft, slightly cake-like cookie that stays tender longer. Cookies with Greek yogurt tend to be less dense than those made solely with butter, while still maintaining a rich flavor.

2. Tangy Flavor

The subtle tang of Greek yogurt complements the sweetness of chocolate chips beautifully. This slight acidity balances the sugar and enhances the overall flavor, giving your yogurt chocolate chip cookies a unique and irresistible taste.

3. Nutritional Benefits

Using Greek yogurt in your cookies adds a bit of protein and reduces some of the fat that would normally come from extra butter. While these are still indulgent treats, cookies with Greek yogurt can feel slightly more nourishing making them perfect for baking with kids or sharing with friends.

Common Challenges with Yogurt Cookies

Baking with yogurt is wonderful, but it can also introduce some challenges. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Flat Cookies: Greek yogurt adds moisture, but too much can cause cookies to spread excessively. Use the recipe measurements carefully.
• Cakey Texture: Overmixing the dough can result in overly soft, cake-like cookies. Fold the flour in gently or use your mixer quickly to avoid mixing for too long.
• Chocolate Chips Sinking: Because the dough is softer, chocolate chips can sink during baking. Folding them in last and slightly chilling the dough can help.
• Cookies Not Spreading: If the dough is too cold or contains coarse sugar, cookies may hold their shape more. Slightly flatten the dough balls before baking for even results.

These are all solvable with a little attention and the right recipe, which is exactly what my Greek yogurt chocolate chip cookies are designed to do.

Ingredients for Greek Yogurt Chocolate Chip Cookies

Here’s what you’ll need for a batch of soft, tangy cookies:

• 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp fine salt
• 6 tbsp melted butter
• 3 tbsp Greek yogurt (Find my homemade recipe HERE)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup chocolate chips

If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, try making homemade Greek yogurt for a richer, tangier flavor that makes your cookies taste like they came from a bakery.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine butter and sugars: In a large bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
3. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add egg yolk, Greek yogurt, and vanilla to the sugar mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
5. Fold in dry ingredients gently, then fold in chocolate chips. Avoid overmixing.
6. Scoop and flatten dough: Using a cookie scoop, scoop dough onto the baking sheet and gently flatten each cookie slightly to ensure even baking.
7. Bake 9-11 minutes until edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
8. Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Tips for the Perfect Greek Yogurt Chocolate Chip Cookie

• Use Full-Fat Yogurt: Low-fat or non-fat yogurt can result in a drier cookie.
• Chill the Dough: For slightly thicker cookies, chill the dough for 15–30 minutes before baking.
• Don’t Overbake: Cookies will look soft in the center when done. They firm up as they cool.
• Try Date Sugar: If you want a richer, caramel-like sweetness, swap a portion of your sugar for date sugar.

Variations and Flavor Twists

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, there are many ways to put your own spin on yogurt cookies:

• Nutty Chocolate Chip Cookies: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture.
• Lemon Yogurt Cookies: Add 1 tsp lemon zest or replace the vanilla in the recipe with lemon extract for a bright, tangy flavor.
• Double Chocolate: Swap half the flour for cocoa powder and use dark chocolate chips.
• Oatmeal Yogurt Cookies: Add 1/2 cup rolled oats for a heartier texture.

For those who love classic indulgence, my vintage chocolate chip cookie recipe is a tried-and-true favorite that’s perfect for a chewy, nostalgic batch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use store-bought Greek yogurt?
Yes, but for the best flavor, full-fat plain yogurt is recommended. Homemade Greek yogurt adds even more creaminess.

Q: Can I substitute yogurt for some of the butter?
Yes! Greek yogurt can replace some butter to make a slightly lighter cookie, but keep the measurements balanced to maintain texture.

Q: Why are my cookies cakey?
Cakey cookies usually result from overmixing or using too much yogurt. Fold ingredients gently and measure carefully.

Q: Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! Scoop the dough, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Greek Yogurt Cookies vs. Classic Cookies

< >Soft, golden Greek yogurt chocolate chip cookies stacked with a glass of milk

One of the biggest benefits of baking cookies with Greek yogurt is how they compare to a standard chocolate chip cookie.

Greek yogurt cookies are soft, tender, and slightly cake-like, while classic chocolate chip cookies can range from chewy to crispy depending on the recipe.

The subtle tang from the yogurt balances the sweetness of the chocolate chips, adding a unique flavor dimension that you won’t get from traditional cookies.

In terms of moisture, cookies with Greek yogurt tend to retain it longer, helping them stay soft even a day or two after baking.

Nutritionally, adding Greek yogurt increases protein slightly and can reduce some of the fat if you use it to replace part of the butter, making these cookies a slightly lighter treat without sacrificing flavor.