Christmas Cookies Recipe

Nothing says the holidays quite like a batch of fresh, warm Christmas cookies. This recipe combines the perfect balance of sweetness, soft texture, and delicious chocolate chips to create the ideal treat for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or simply enjoying with loved ones. These homemade cookies are easy to make and will fill your home with the comforting aroma of baking—perfect for spreading holiday cheer.

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed light-brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups semisweet and/or milk chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda; set aside.
2. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the room-temperature butter with both granulated and light-brown sugars. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Reduce the mixer speed to low and add the salt, vanilla extract, and eggs. Continue beating until the mixture is well combined, about 1 minute.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
5. Drop heaping tablespoon-sized balls of dough about 2 inches apart on baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cookies are golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 1 to 2 minutes.
7. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely. Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

1. Nutty Christmas Cookies: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or macadamia nuts for a crunchy twist.
2. Holiday Spice: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or ginger to the dry ingredients for a warm, festive spice flavor.
3. Mini Cookies: For smaller cookies, use a teaspoon to scoop the dough and bake for about 6-8 minutes.
4. Decorative Touch: Top each cookie with festive sprinkles or colored sugar before baking for a more holiday-themed look.
5. Dried Fruit Option: Add dried cranberries or raisins to the dough for a fruity variation.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To enjoy the cookies warm, microwave them for 10-15 seconds or place them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? It’s better to use unsalted butter in this recipe to control the amount of salt. If you only have salted butter, reduce the added salt by 1/4 teaspoon.
2. Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet? Yes, dark chocolate chips work well in this recipe and add a richer chocolate flavor.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before baking. Just allow the dough to come to room temperature before scooping and baking.
4. Can I make these cookies gluten-free? To make the cookies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that the baking soda and chocolate chips are gluten-free.
5. Can I use a hand mixer instead of an electric stand mixer? Yes, a hand mixer works perfectly fine for mixing the dough in this recipe.
6. Can I freeze the cookie dough? Yes, you can freeze the dough. Roll it into balls and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
7. Why are my cookies spreading too much? If the dough is too soft or warm, it may cause the cookies to spread too much. Ensure the dough is chilled before baking if needed.
8. Can I add more chocolate chips? Absolutely! Feel free to add more chocolate chips or use a mix of milk, semisweet, and white chocolate chips for variety.
9. How do I know when the cookies are done? The cookies should be golden brown around the edges but soft in the center. They will continue to cook slightly as they cool on the baking sheet.
10. Can I make these cookies into a cookie bar? Yes, you can press the cookie dough into a greased baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes at 350°F, or until golden brown and set. Cut into squares once cooled.

Conclusion

Christmas Cookies are a timeless holiday treat that’s loved by everyone. With just the right balance of sweetness, soft texture, and rich chocolate flavor, these cookies will undoubtedly become a holiday staple in your home. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or simply indulging in a cozy treat, these cookies are sure to spread holiday cheer with every bite!

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