Many cookie recipes give you a detailed description of how the cookies should look when they are finished baking.
To ensure your cookies won’t be undercooked or overbaked, always check cookies at the minimum baking time.
In these cases, you’re able to usually tell by simply taking a look at the cookies.
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Do not let the edges become dark brown, or the cookies will be overbaked.
A hint of brown may be noticeable on the edges.
If the edges become dark brown, they are overbaked.
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If edges aren’t golden and tops are soft and shiny, bake a little longer.
These recipes may recommendinserting a toothpickinto the center of brownies.
Even toppings made with brown sugar take on a golden color when the sugar caramelizes.
Credit: Blaine Moats
Sometimes the bottom crust is partially baked before the filling and topping are added.
These cookies are done when the edges are set and the tops have turned a dull color and crack.
Always be sure to refer to the recipe to know how to test the cookies.
Credit: Blaine Moats
These cookies are tender by nature and are fragile when warm.
Check out our full list of Test Kitchen tips for baking cookies.
After you’ve got all your cookies cooled, double-check youstore them properlyto keep them tasting fresh.
you could alsofreeze your cookiesso none of that precious dough goes to waste.
