Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies
Introduction
Chocolate chip cookies are a timeless treat enjoyed worldwide, and during the Christmas season, they take on a special role as a comforting holiday indulgence. These cookies are often adorned with festive sprinkles or infused with holiday flavors like cinnamon or peppermint. Whether shared with loved ones or left out for Santa Claus, chocolate chip Christmas cookies embody the warmth and joy of the holidays.
Ingredients
For the cookies:
2 ¾ cups (345g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
1 ¼ cups (250g) packed brown sugar
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups (340g) semisweet chocolate chips
1 cup (125g) holiday sprinkles (optional)
Optional festive twist:
1 tsp ground cinnamon (for a warm holiday flavor)
½ tsp peppermint extract (for a minty twist)
Instructions
- Prepare the dry ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and any optional spices like cinnamon. Set aside. - Cream the butter and sugars:
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). - Incorporate the wet ingredients:
Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract (and peppermint extract, if using). - Combine wet and dry ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing. - Add the chocolate chips and sprinkles:
Gently fold in the chocolate chips and holiday sprinkles, ensuring even distribution. - Chill the dough:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour. This helps the flavors meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much. - Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. - Shape the cookies:
Scoop out about 1.5 tablespoons of dough and roll into balls. Place them on the baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. - Bake the cookies:
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underdone but will firm up as the cookies cool. - Cool and serve:
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Method
The key to perfect Christmas cookies lies in chilling the dough, as it helps maintain their shape and enhances flavor. Using quality chocolate chips and fresh ingredients ensures a delicious result every time.
History of Chocolate Chip Cookies
The chocolate chip cookie was invented in the 1930s by Ruth Wakefield, owner of the Toll House Inn in Massachusetts. What began as an experiment with semisweet chocolate turned into a global phenomenon. During Christmas, these cookies are adapted with festive decorations and flavors, making them a quintessential holiday treat.
Formation
To give your cookies a Christmas makeover, you can shape the dough into holiday symbols like stars or trees before baking. Use cookie cutters and chill the shaped dough before baking to maintain their festive outlines.
Conclusion
Chocolate chip Christmas cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a symbol of love, tradition, and holiday cheer. Baking these cookies allows families to come together, share laughs, and create memories.
Lovers of Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies
Chocolate chip cookies are loved by everyone, from children eagerly awaiting Santa to adults savoring a moment of nostalgia. They’re perfect for cookie exchanges, gifts, or simply enjoying with a warm mug of hot chocolate by the fire.
Let me know if you’d like any customization for this recipe or suggestions for festive twists!