Ah, the holiday season! It’s that magical time of year when the air is filled with the warm scent of spices and sugar, and the laughter of loved ones creates the perfect backdrop for baking. For me, *xmas cookies* are the heart of our family traditions. I remember as a child, gathering around the kitchen table with my family, rolling out dough, and decorating with the most colorful sprinkles we could find. It wasn’t just about the cookies; it was about creating memories that would last a lifetime. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like the joy of pulling a tray of freshly baked cookies from the oven, their edges perfectly golden and the chocolate chips still melty. These cookies are not just treats; they’re little bites of holiday magic that bring everyone together. So, let’s dive in and make some festive *xmas cookies* that will surely become a beloved part of your holiday celebrations!
Ingredients for xmas cookies
To whip up a batch of these delightful *xmas cookies*, you’ll need some simple yet essential ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour – This forms the base for our cookies, giving them that delightful structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – A little lift to make them perfectly chewy!
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Just a pinch to enhance all the sweet flavors.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – This adds that rich, buttery goodness we all love.
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar – Sweetness is key for these festive treats!
- 1 egg – This helps bind everything together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For that warm, comforting flavor.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract – A subtle twist that elevates the taste.
- 2 cups chocolate chips – Because what’s a cookie without chocolate?
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional) – For a crunchy texture if you’re feeling adventurous.
How to Prepare xmas cookies
Making these delightful *xmas cookies* is a breeze! First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when your dough is ready. While that’s heating up, grab a mixing bowl and whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt—this is your dry mix, and it’s super important for that perfect cookie texture.
In another bowl, cream the softened butter and white sugar together until it’s light and fluffy. Oh, the smell of that butter! Next, add in the egg, vanilla, and almond extract, mixing until everything is well combined. Now, here comes the fun part—gradually mix in your dry ingredients until just combined. Don’t overdo it; we want those cookies to be tender!
Finally, fold in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using) for that delightful crunch. Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto your baking sheets, leaving a little space between each one because they’ll spread a bit while baking. Bake them for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. Once baked, let them cool on wire racks before you dive in—waiting is the hardest part, I know!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Trust me, you’re going to fall head over heels for these *xmas cookies*! Here’s why:
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy holiday schedules!
- Deliciously soft and chewy with a melty chocolate surprise in every bite.
- Festively appealing, making them a hit at any holiday gathering.
- Customizable to suit your taste—add your favorite nuts or switch up the chocolate.
- They fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that screams “holiday cheer!”
Tips for Success with xmas cookies
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your *xmas cookies* turn out absolutely perfect every time!
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother dough.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining your dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, and we want them soft and chewy!
- Baking Sheets Matter: Use light-colored baking sheets for even baking. Dark pans can cause the bottoms to brown too quickly.
- Chill the Dough: If you have time, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and gives you thicker cookies.
- Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for later enjoyment. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before storing!
Variations of xmas cookies
One of the best parts about baking *xmas cookies* is the endless possibilities for customization! Here are some fun variations to get your creative juices flowing:
- Mint Chocolate: Swap out regular chocolate chips for peppermint chips or add a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing twist.
- White Chocolate Cranberry: Use white chocolate chips and toss in some dried cranberries for a festive pop of color and flavor.
- Nutty Bliss: Experiment with different nuts like pecans, walnuts, or even macadamia nuts for added crunch and richness.
- Spiced Delight: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to your dough for a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for the holidays.
- Dark Chocolate Sea Salt: Go for dark chocolate chips and sprinkle a little sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty combo.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own unique batch of *xmas cookies*! Happy baking!
Nutritional Information for xmas cookies
Before you indulge in these delightful *xmas cookies*, let’s take a quick look at the estimated nutritional values per cookie. Each cookie packs about 150 calories, making them a sweet treat worth every bite! You’ll find around 7g of fat, including 4g of saturated fat, along with 10g of sugar to satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, there’s 2g of protein and 22g of carbs to keep you energized during all your holiday festivities. Just remember, moderation is key—so enjoy these festive bites guilt-free!
FAQ About xmas cookies
Got questions about making the perfect *xmas cookies*? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear:
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.
Can I substitute the chocolate chips?
Definitely! Feel free to use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips. You could also throw in some dried fruit for a tasty twist!
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps keep them thick and chewy. Also, make sure your baking sheets are cool before adding the dough.
What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Store your *xmas cookies* in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer shelf life. They’ll still taste amazing!
Can I add more spices for flavor?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even ginger for a holiday kick. It’s all about your personal taste!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for xmas cookies
Once you’ve baked up a storm and your *xmas cookies* are cool, you’ll want to store them properly to keep that deliciousness intact! Place your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay fresh for about a week—if they last that long! If you have leftovers (which is rare!), you can also freeze them for up to two months. Just wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to indulge, let them thaw at room temperature. No reheating needed; they’ll be just as delightful as the day you baked them!
Call to Action
I’d love to hear how your *xmas cookies* turn out! If you give this recipe a try, please leave a comment below and let me know your thoughts. Don’t forget to rate the recipe too! And if you’re feeling social, share your baking adventures on Instagram or Facebook. Tag me so we can spread the holiday joy together! Happy baking!
Print
Xmas Cookies: 5 Irresistible Treats for Holiday Cheer
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and festive Christmas cookies perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 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 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream butter and sugar together.
- Add egg, vanilla, and almond extract to the butter mixture.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients.
- Stir in chocolate chips and nuts.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden.
- Let cool on wire racks.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- Cookies can be frozen for later use.
- Customize with different types of chocolate or sprinkles.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: xmas cookies, holiday cookies, Christmas baking
