Christmas is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate the season than with a batch of homemade Christmas cookies? These delightful treats fill your home with cozy aromas and bring joy to gatherings with family and friends. Plus, they are easy to make, and the recipe can easily be customized to include your favorite ingredients. Whether shared as gifts or enjoyed after a long day, Christmas cookies are sure to brighten any holiday.
Why Make This Christmas Cookies
There’s something special about baking cookies during the holidays. The act of mixing dough, the anticipation of the baking smell wafting through your home, and the joy of sharing them with loved ones creates cherished memories. This Christmas cookie recipe is perfect because it’s the ultimate balance of sweet, buttery flavors paired with rich chocolate chips. The cookies turn out soft and chewy with a slightly crisp edge, providing a delightful textural contrast. And the best part? They are incredibly easy to whip up!
How to Make Christmas Cookies
Making these Christmas cookies is a straightforward process, perfect for bakers of all levels. With just a few simple steps, you can create a batch that everyone will love. First, gather all your ingredients and equipment. The preparation is quick, and the baking time is short, meaning you’ll have delicious cookies ready to enjoy in no time.
Ingredients:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Beat in the salt, vanilla extract, and eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients until fully incorporated, then gently fold in the chocolate chips.
- Drop by large spoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them a couple of inches apart.
- Bake for about 9 to 11 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the edges are nicely browned. The centers might look a bit soft, but they will continue to set as they cool.
Nutritional Information
(Per Cookie – Makes approximately 24 cookies)
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 2g
How to Serve Christmas Cookies
These Christmas cookies are fantastic served warm straight from the oven, but they’re also delicious at room temperature. For a festive touch, consider serving them on a decorative platter with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or drizzling with melted chocolate. Pair them with a glass of cold milk or a steaming cup of hot cocoa to elevate your holiday snack experience.
How to Store Christmas Cookies
Store your cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can last at room temperature for about a week, or you can refrigerate them for up to 10 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy blending.
- Don’t over-mix the dough once you add the dry ingredients; just mix until combined to keep the cookies tender.
- If you like your cookies extra chewy, remove them from the oven when they’re slightly underbaked.
- Feel free to customize with nuts, dried fruits, or different flavors of chocolate.
- Experiment with different add-ins like butterscotch chips or white chocolate for variety.
Delicious Variations
- Nutty Chocolate Chip Cookies: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy twist.
- Peppermint Chocolate Cookies: Mix crushed candy canes into the dough for a festive holiday flavor.
- Coconut Chocolate Chip Cookies: Stir in 1 cup of shredded coconut for an extra chewy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use a sugar substitute? Yes, you can use a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie option; however, this may affect the texture and taste of the cookies.
-
What can I do if my dough is too sticky? If your cookie dough is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle.
-
Can I make the dough in advance? Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it. Just thaw before baking.
Conclusion
These Christmas cookies are the perfect treat to share during the holiday season. Their combination of simple ingredients results in a deliciously satisfying cookie that everyone will adore. So why not gather your loved ones and start baking today? Enjoy the warmth of homemade cookies and the joyful mess of the holiday season. Get ready to spread the love—happy baking!
