The Perfect Festive Treat for the Holiday Season!
Transform your holiday baking into a magical experience with these Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies. Soft, chewy, and packed with festive flavors like crushed candy canes, white chocolate chips, and a sprinkle of holiday cheer, these cookies are bound to be a hit at any gathering!
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Mix-Ins:
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup crushed candy canes (for that peppermint crunch)
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
For Decoration:
- Snowflake sprinkles (or any festive holiday sprinkles of your choice)
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for even baking and easy cleanup.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Stir in the vanilla extract for a hint of warmth and sweetness.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft and tender.
Step 5: Fold in the Mix-Ins
- Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, and crushed candy canes until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 6: Form the Cookies
- Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
Step 7: Add the Final Touches
- Press a few snowflake sprinkles or festive decorations onto the tops of each cookie for a touch of holiday magic.
Step 8: Bake
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should still look slightly soft—this ensures a chewy texture.
Step 9: Cool
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up.
- Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Serving and Storing Tips
- Serving: Serve these cookies with a glass of milk, hot cocoa, or coffee for the ultimate cozy treat.
- Storing: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive Flavors: The combination of peppermint, chocolate, and vanilla screams holiday cheer.
- Easy to Make: Perfect for both beginner and seasoned bakers.
- Customizable: Swap the candy canes for crushed toffee, or add nuts for extra crunch.
Make these Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies a part of your holiday traditions—they’re guaranteed to spread joy with every bite!