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how to tell when cookies are done

Cookies are usually done when the edges are set and lightly golden, the centers look mostly matte (not shiny), and they no longer feel wet if gently touched.

Quick Scoop

1. Visual signs your cookies are done

  • Edges turn golden and look set rather than raw or shiny.
  • Centers lose that wet, glossy sheen and look more matte, even if they still seem a bit soft.
  • The cookies may puff slightly, then deflate just a bit and stop visibly spreading in the oven.
  • For darker cookies (chocolate, gingerbread), look for the loss of shine and slightly drier edges instead of color change.

2. Touch tests (without ruining the batch)

  • Gently tap or nudge the edge: it should feel set and not collapse inward.
  • Lightly press the center: it should be soft but spring back slightly, not leave a deep dent or feel wet.
  • If the whole cookie jiggles like raw batter, give it another minute or two.

3. Bottom check and temperature (if you want to be precise)

  • Lift one cookie with a spatula and peek underneath: a pale golden or light brown bottom usually means done, while very pale can mean underbaked and dark brown means overbaked.
  • If you use a thermometer, many cookies are done around 93–96°C (200–205°F) in the center.

4. Timing and carryover baking

  • Most drop cookies bake in about 8–15 minutes depending on size, oven, and recipe; start checking at the earliest time given in your recipe.
  • Cookies keep cooking on the hot tray after you pull them out, so it is normal (and often ideal) to remove them when the center still looks a bit soft; they firm up as they cool.

5. Underbaked vs overbaked cues

  • Likely underbaked: centers look wet or shiny, edges still pale, cookie collapses when you touch the side.
  • Likely overbaked: very dark edges or bottoms, centers feel dry or hard even when hot, little to no softness when pressed.

6. Simple “test bake” trick

  • Bake 2 test cookies first: pull one at the minimum recipe time and the other at the max time.
  • Let them cool fully, then taste and choose which texture you like; use that timing for the rest of the batch.

SEO bits (for your post)

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