Semi-sweet chocolate chips are small, round pieces of chocolate that are commonly used in baking. They contain a moderate amount of sugar, which gives them a balanced sweetness, making them ideal for cookies, brownies, and other desserts. The cocoa content typically ranges from 30% to 50%, providing a rich chocolate flavor without being overly sweet. These chocolate chips are often made from a combination of cocoa solids, cocoa butter, sugar, and sometimes vanilla. They are popular in recipes like chocolate chip cookies and can also be used as toppings for ice cream or in trail mix. Their versatility makes them a staple in many kitchens.