When it comes to dessert, there’s nothing more comforting and dependable than a chocolate chip cookie. Gooey, crunchy, soft, doughy — you really can’t go wrong with any rendition of such an age-old classic.
But let’s be honest, having lots of options makes choosing which one you want nearly impossible. So to help you out, I’ve compiled the ultimate guide to chocolate chip cookies in Charlottesville.
Disclaimer: you probably still won’t be able to decide which one you want because Charlottesville is killing the cookie game. Seriously. So. Many. Good. Cookies. Probably best to just go ahead and try them all.
For the decadence junkie: Brookville Restaurant’s Bacon Chocolate Chip Cookie
Photo by Natalie Beam
Bacon and chocolate are always a winning combo, but this creation by Brookville Restaurant Chef and Co-Owner Harrison Keevil is downright genius. But be forewarned, this cookie will ruin almost every other cookie for you. It’s that good.
For the indecisive eater: Paradox Pastry’s Peanut Butter and Friends
Photo by Natalie Beam
When the choice between chocolate chip cookie and peanut butter cookie is weighing on you, go with Paradox‘s Peanut Butter and Friends. It has the perfect ratios of sweet to salty and nutty to chocolatey, so you won’t be left feeling like you missed out on something.
For the die-hard traditionalist: MarieBette Café & Bakery’s Chocolate Chunk Cookie
Photo by Natalie Beam
MarieBette is the go-to spot for authentic French pastries, but it turns out the owners and classically trained pastry chefs Jason Becton and Patrick Evans know how to make a mean chocolate chip cookie as well. This one will never disappoint. Also it’s bigger than a baby’s head, which is always a plus.
For the crunch craver: Mudhouse Coffee Roasters’ Chocolate Chip Cookie
Photo by Natalie Beam
This hipster haven’s chocolate chip cookie is traditional but it’s far from mainstream. So many crunchy cookies end up dry and brittle, but Mudhouse has managed serve up satisfying crunch without sacrificing gooeyness. Best of both worlds here.
For the gluten-free: Paradox Pastry’s Chocolate Decadence
Photo by Natalie Beam
Paradox Pastry‘s chocolate decadence cookie has all of the gooey goodness of a brownie in cookie form. Really, what more could you want?