Step 1

Cream together softened butter and sugars for several minutes until light and fluffy, scraping down the sides.

Step 2

Gradually add in water and vanilla extract and beat to combine. (The water will cause the mixture to appear curdled. Turn your mixer on medium-high and beat for a few more minutes to bring the ingredients back together.)

Step 3

To a mixing bowl, add dry ingredients including flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt.

Step 4

Stir in the chocolate chips and chill the cookie dough in the fridge for 30 minutes or more.

Step 5

Use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion out the dough to 2" balls. Place on a parchment lined baking sheet and bake on the center rack at 350F until the edges are golden brown, for about 12 minutes. The cookie centers will look puffy and under-baked, but trust the process!

Step 6

Let the cookies cool to set. They will flatten out and continue cooking after they're removed from the oven. Wait until the cookies are set, 5 minutes or so, before transferring so they don't fall apart.