Cookie Christmas Delights: 5 Steps to Holiday Happiness

cookie christmas

By:

Julia marin

There’s something truly magical about baking during the holidays, isn’t there? The smell of warm cookies wafting through the house, the laughter of family gathered in the kitchen, and the joy of sharing sweet treats with loved ones make it all so special. That’s why I absolutely love making these cookie Christmas delights! They’re not just any cookies; they’re soft, chewy, and packed with chocolatey goodness—perfect for holiday celebrations. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why these cookies become a cherished tradition in my home every year. Let’s get started on this festive journey together!

Ingredients List

  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: This is the base of your cookies, giving them structure and that delightful chewy texture.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda: This helps the cookies rise and gives them that lovely soft interior.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavor of the cookies.
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming with the sugars, which will make your cookies melt-in-your-mouth delicious!
  • 1 1/2 cups white sugar: This adds sweetness and helps achieve that golden-brown color.
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar: The molasses in brown sugar gives the cookies a rich flavor and a hint of chewiness.
  • 2 eggs: These bind everything together and add moisture. Make sure they’re at room temperature for the best results.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: This is where the magic happens! Vanilla adds a warm, inviting flavor that makes these cookies irresistible.
  • 2 cups chocolate chips: Go for semi-sweet for a classic taste, or mix it up with milk chocolate or dark chocolate for a twist!
  • 1 cup chopped nuts (optional): Pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch, but feel free to skip them if you prefer a nut-free cookie.
3-IN-1 Electric Stand Mixer

3-IN-1 Electric Stand Mixer

KOIOS 5-in-1 Hand Immersion Blender

KOIOS 5-in-1 Hand Immersion Blender

CIRCLE JOY Gravity Electric Salt

CIRCLE JOY Gravity Electric Salt

Glad Tall Kitchen Trash Bags 13 Gallon

Glad Tall Kitchen Trash Bags 13 Gallon

How to Prepare Cookie Christmas Instructions

Preheat and Mix Dry Ingredients

First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 375°F (190°C). This is super important because starting with a hot oven helps the cookies rise perfectly and develop that golden color. While it’s heating up, grab a small bowl and mix together 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk them together until they’re well combined. This step ensures that the baking soda is evenly distributed, which is key for fluffy cookies!

Creaming Butter and Sugars

Now, let’s move on to the star of the show—creaming the butter and sugars! In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 1/2 cups of white sugar, and 1 cup of packed brown sugar. Using a hand mixer or a stand mixer, beat them together on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is where the magic happens; the air gets whipped in, which will make your cookies tender and delicious!

Incorporating Eggs and Vanilla

Next up, it’s time to add the eggs and vanilla. Crack in 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This is crucial—adding them individually ensures that they’re fully incorporated, which helps bind everything together. Then, pour in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for that warm, cozy flavor. Just mix until everything is combined; you don’t want to overdo it!

Blending Dry Ingredients and Add-ins

Now, let’s bring it all together! Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. I like to do this in batches to avoid a flour explosion! Once that’s done, it’s time to fold in the fun stuff—2 cups of chocolate chips and 1 cup of chopped nuts if you’re using them. Use a spatula to gently mix them in, being careful not to overwork the dough.

Baking the Cookies

Finally, it’s time to bake! Drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto ungreased cookie sheets, leaving some space between each mound to allow for spreading. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 9 to 11 minutes, or until they’re golden brown around the edges. To check for doneness, look for a slight firmness in the center; they’ll continue to cook a bit as they cool. Wow, your kitchen is about to smell incredible!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick preparation: You can whip up a batch of these delightful cookies in just about 25 minutes!
  • Delicious flavor: The perfect balance of sweet and rich, with gooey chocolate chips in every bite.
  • Festive appeal: These cookie Christmas treats are ideal for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or just cozied up at home.
  • Customizable: You can easily switch up the add-ins—try dried fruits, white chocolate, or even a sprinkle of festive spices!
  • Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves cookies, and these will have your family and friends coming back for seconds (or thirds!).
  • Traditional charm: This recipe has become a cherished part of my holiday celebrations, and I know it’ll become a favorite in your home too!

Tips for Success

Making the best cookie Christmas creations is all about a few little tricks that can make a world of difference. Here are my top tips to ensure your cookies come out perfectly every time:

  • Measure accurately: Baking is a science, so be sure to measure your flour correctly. Spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife instead of scooping directly from the bag, which can pack it down and lead to dry cookies.
  • Don’t skip the chilling: If you have time, chilling your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes can help the cookies hold their shape better and enhance the flavors. Plus, it’s a great way to avoid spreading too much!
  • Check your oven temperature: Ovens can be tricky! If you’re unsure, use an oven thermometer to make sure it’s at the right temperature. Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to cookies that are too soft or overbaked.
  • Watch the baking time: Every oven is different, so start checking your cookies a minute or two before the suggested time. They should be golden brown around the edges but still slightly soft in the center—this is where the magic happens!
  • Let them cool: After baking, allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set up without breaking apart.
  • Get creative with add-ins: Feel free to mix and match your favorite ingredients! Whether it’s swapping out chocolate chips for white chocolate or adding a sprinkle of festive spices, customizing your cookie Christmas treats makes them uniquely yours.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re well on your way to baking up a storm of delicious holiday cookies that will impress everyone! Happy baking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve baked up a delightful batch of these cookie Christmas treats, you’ll want to keep them fresh for as long as possible. Here’s how to store your cookies and ensure they stay delicious:

  • Cool Completely: Before storing, make sure your cookies are completely cooled. This prevents condensation from forming in the container, which can make them soggy.
  • Airtight Container: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them soft and chewy. You can also use a cookie jar with a tight lid—just be careful not to overfill it!
  • Layering: If you have multiple types of cookies, consider separating them with parchment paper to avoid sticking. This way, your cookie Christmas creations will stay looking as good as they taste!
  • Refrigeration: If you prefer, you can refrigerate your cookies for longer freshness, but keep in mind that this might alter their texture slightly, making them a bit firmer.
  • Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze your cookies! Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a couple of hours.

When it comes to reheating, you’ll want to do it gently to maintain that delicious freshness:

  • Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, pop a cookie in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will warm it up and restore some of that gooey chocolate goodness!
  • Oven: For a more even heat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This will bring back that freshly baked taste and texture.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your cookie Christmas delights long after they come out of the oven. Happy munching!

Nutritional Information

Before you dive into these scrumptious cookie Christmas treats, it’s always good to know what you’re indulging in! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional information per cookie:

  • Calories: 180
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Protein: 2g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. So, as you enjoy your cookie Christmas delights, remember that a little indulgence is part of the holiday spirit! Happy baking and munching!

FAQ Section

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! You can substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier cookie. Just keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly, making them a bit denser.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
To prevent spreading, make sure your butter is softened but not melted. Also, chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking can help keep your cookie Christmas creations from spreading too much in the oven. It’s a little trick that makes a big difference!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can! Just scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them straight into the oven—no thawing needed—though you may need to add a minute or two to the bake time.

What can I use if I don’t have chocolate chips?
No worries! You can easily substitute chocolate chips with dried fruits like cranberries or raisins, white chocolate chips, or even butterscotch chips for a fun twist. Get creative and make these cookie Christmas treats your own!

How should I store leftover cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you have different types of cookies, separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay soft and delicious for several days, but trust me, they won’t last long!

Print
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cookie christmas

Cookie Christmas Delights: 5 Steps to Holiday Happiness


  • Author: Julia marin
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Delicious Christmas cookies perfect for holiday celebrations.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups white sugar
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups chocolate chips
  • 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, white sugar, and brown sugar.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
  5. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
  6. Fold in chocolate chips and nuts.
  7. Drop by rounded spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets.
  8. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes or until golden brown.

Notes

  • Store in an airtight container.
  • Can be decorated with icing for a festive touch.
  • Substitute chocolate chips with dried fruits for variety.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: cookie christmas

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.

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