Get ready to transform your kitchen into a holiday wonderland with these irresistible Christmas cookies that promise to sprinkle joy, warmth, and deliciousness into your festive celebrations! Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, these six festive cookies are guaranteed to become your new holiday tradition, filling your home with the most mouthwatering aromas and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 32 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 36 cookies
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 sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- Sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This will ensure that the dry ingredients are well combined and help distribute the baking soda evenly.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and continue to mix until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts (if using) using a spatula or wooden spoon. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- If desired, sprinkle some festive sprinkles on top of each cookie before baking for a decorative touch.
- Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still soft.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy your festive Christmas cookies with family and friends, or package them up as delightful gifts!
Tips
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and consistent texture.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes and even baking.
- Don't overmix the dough, as this can make cookies tough and dense.
- Leave enough space between cookies on the baking sheet to prevent them from merging.
- Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Allow cookies to cool completely before storing to maintain their crisp texture.
- Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week.
- For extra festive flair, experiment with different sprinkle colors and decorations.
- Consider making the dough ahead of time and refrigerating for more intense flavors.
- Always check your cookies a minute or two before the recommended baking time to prevent over-browning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
