Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for achieving those golden edges and soft centers.

Mix the water and cornstarch in a medium bowl until smooth.

Combine the flour, baking soda, and salt in another bowl. Whisk until evenly incorporated.

Cream together the room temperature butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until fluffy.

Add the vanilla extract to the butter mixture and stir it in until well blended.

Gradually combine the dry flour mixture with the wet ingredients. Mix until just incorporated.

Fold in your favorite semi-sweet chocolate chips.

Scoop generous spoonfuls of dough onto a prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers remain soft.

Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.