Ah, the holiday season! There’s just something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house, don’t you think? This year, I’m all about making *dairy free Christmas cookies* that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary preferences. Trust me, these cookies are not just delicious; they’re a festive treat that brings joy to both the taste buds and the heart. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving something sweet, these cookies fit the bill perfectly. They’re soft, chewy, and loaded with rich dark chocolate chips that will melt in your mouth. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the holiday spirit with family and friends!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful *dairy free Christmas cookies*. Make sure to gather everything before you start, so you can flow through the recipe without any hiccups!
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup coconut oil, softened (make sure it’s not melted, just soft enough to mix easily)
- 1 cup packed brown sugar (this adds that lovely caramel flavor)
- 1/2 cup almond milk (feel free to use unsweetened for a more balanced taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (trust me, this makes all the difference!)
- 1 tsp baking soda (this is key for that perfect rise)
- 1/2 tsp salt (don’t skip this; it enhances the sweetness)
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (go for the good stuff to really elevate the flavor)
With these simple ingredients, you’ll be on your way to creating a batch of cookies that not only taste amazing but are also kind to those avoiding dairy. Let’s get baking!
How to Prepare Dairy Free Christmas Cookies
Now that we’ve got all our ingredients ready, let’s dive into making these delicious *dairy free Christmas cookies*! Follow these steps for cookie perfection, and trust me, the process is just as delightful as the end result.
Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly. An oven that’s not hot enough can lead to a sad, flat cookie. So, go ahead and set that temperature while you prepare the dough!
Mixing the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened coconut oil and the packed brown sugar. I love using a hand mixer for this step—it makes everything creamy and smooth. Once they’re blended, add in the almond milk and vanilla extract. Mix until it’s all incorporated; the mixture should be light and fluffy. This is where all the magic begins!
Preparing the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined! This helps the baking soda distribute evenly, which is key for achieving that nice rise in your cookies. Trust me, you don’t want any surprise salty bites!
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. I like to do it in thirds—this way, it’s easier to mix without a cloud of flour flying everywhere. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined. Don’t overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
Adding Chocolate Chips
Next, fold in those rich dark chocolate chips. Oh, the joy! If you want to add a little extra crunch, toss in some chopped nuts at this stage. They’ll add a fantastic texture and flavor contrast to the soft cookies.
Baking the Cookies
Using a tablespoon, drop generous balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave some space between them, as they will spread while baking. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are golden, but the centers still look soft. Trust me, they’ll firm up as they cool! Let them sit on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. And just like that, you’re ready to enjoy some holiday magic!
Nutritional Information
Curious about the nutritional breakdown of these delightful *dairy free Christmas cookies*? Here’s what you can expect per cookie. Keep in mind, these values are approximate and can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients you use:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
These cookies are not only a tasty treat but also a great way to indulge during the holidays without the dairy. Enjoy them guilt-free as you celebrate this joyful season!
Tips for Success
To make sure your *dairy free Christmas cookies* turn out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips that I swear by!
- Check Cookie Doneness: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake! They should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center. If they’re looking too dark, it’s better to take them out a minute early—overbaking can lead to a dry cookie!
- Let Them Cool: I know it’s tempting to dive right in, but let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up perfectly and makes them easier to handle.
- Storage: Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll last up to a week—if they last that long, that is!
- Freezing: Want to save some for later? You can freeze the cookie dough before baking! Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer the balls to a freezer bag. When you’re ready, bake straight from frozen, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to get creative! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for an extra flavor boost. The options are endless!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create the most delicious *dairy free Christmas cookies* that will impress everyone during the holiday season. Happy baking!
FAQ Section
I know you might have a few questions about making these delightful *dairy free Christmas cookies*, so let’s tackle some of the most common ones!
Can I use a different type of milk?
Absolutely! While I love almond milk for its subtle nutty flavor, you can use any plant-based milk you prefer, like oat milk or soy milk. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to keep the balance right!
What if I don’t have coconut oil?
No worries! You can substitute the coconut oil with another dairy-free butter alternative or even applesauce for a lower fat option. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture might vary slightly.
How do I store these cookies?
To keep your *dairy free Christmas cookies* fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just make sure to wrap them well.
Can I add nuts or dried fruits?
Yes! Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can give your cookies a lovely crunch. Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins also make a festive addition. Just be sure to chop them up if they’re large!
Are these cookies suitable for vegans?
Yes, these *dairy free Christmas cookies* are perfect for vegans since they contain no animal products. They’re a great treat for everyone at your holiday gathering!
Can I use gluten-free flour?
Definitely! You can swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Just make sure to check for a blend that works well for baking—some can be a bit tricky!
What’s the best way to serve these cookies?
I love to serve them warm with a cup of dairy-free hot chocolate or tea, but they’re also fantastic on their own. You can even sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for a festive touch!
I hope this helps clear up any questions you have about making these scrumptious *dairy free Christmas cookies*. Happy baking and enjoy every delicious bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These *dairy free Christmas cookies* are sure to become a holiday favorite for so many reasons! Here’s why you’ll absolutely love making them:
- Quick and Easy: With just a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time!
- Perfect for Everyone: These cookies cater to various dietary preferences, making them a great addition to any holiday gathering.
- Soft and Chewy: The texture is spot-on—soft, chewy, and oh-so-satisfying with every bite!
- Rich Chocolate Flavor: Loaded with dark chocolate chips, these cookies are a chocolate lover’s dream come true!
- Versatile: Feel free to mix in nuts, dried fruits, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for a personalized twist.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it for those last-minute cookie cravings!
- Kid-Approved: Kids and adults alike will be reaching for seconds—trust me, they won’t be able to resist!
- Guilt-Free Indulgence: Enjoy these treats knowing they’re dairy-free, making them a lighter option during the holiday feasting.
With all these amazing benefits, it’s hard to resist baking a batch (or two) of these delightful cookies this season! Happy baking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve baked your delicious *dairy free Christmas cookies*, you’re going to want to make sure they stay fresh and tasty! Here’s how to store them properly and what to do if you want to enjoy them warm later on.
To keep your cookies at their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain their lovely soft and chewy texture. They’ll last up to a week—if they last that long, that is! If you find yourself with a larger batch than you can manage, you can also freeze them. Just make sure to let them cool completely first. Then, layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to two months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, no need to thaw! Just pop them straight from the freezer onto a baking sheet and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This will warm them up nicely and restore that freshly baked feel. You can also microwave them for about 10-15 seconds if you’re in a hurry, but be careful not to overdo it, or they might end up a bit rubbery.
With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your *dairy free Christmas cookies* even after the holiday festivities are over. Happy snacking!
Print
Dairy Free Christmas Cookies: 7 Joyful Bites to Savor
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Delicious dairy-free Christmas cookies for the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup coconut oil, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, combine the coconut oil and brown sugar.
- Add almond milk and vanilla extract; mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Fold in dark chocolate chips.
- Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Add nuts for extra crunch if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: dairy free christmas cookies
