What kind of recipe is it?
Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that combines the classic charm of traditional cookies with festive cheer.
These cookies are soft and chewy on the inside, with a perfectly crisp edge, and are packed with melty chocolate chips.
They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, as a festive dessert for family dinners, or as a treat to share with friends.
Ideal for bakers of all skill levels, these cookies bring joy and warmth to any holiday celebration and create cherished memories.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 ¼ cups (280g) |
| Baking Soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Unsalted Butter | 1 cup (225g), at room temperature |
| Granulated Sugar | ¾ cup (150g) |
| Brown Sugar (packed) | ¾ cup (165g) |
| Large Eggs | 2 |
| Vanilla Extract | 2 teaspoons |
| Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips | 2 cups (340g) |
| Optional: Holiday Sprinkles | For decoration (as desired) |
Ensure you gather all the ingredients before starting to bake for the best results!
Cooking Steps
1. Preheat the oven to 190 °C (375 °F) and position the oven rack in the center. Prepare two baking sheets (approximately 32 cm x 45 cm or 12 in x 18 in) by lining them with parchment paper or lightly greasing them.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ¼ cups (280 g) of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat 1 cup (225 g) of unsalted butter (at room temperature) with ¾ cup (150 g) of granulated sugar and ¾ cup (165 g) of brown sugar (packed) for about 2–3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Add 2 large eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, continuing to mix on medium speed until fully incorporated, about 1 minute.
5. Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix; the dough should be slightly crumbly but hold together.
6. Fold in 2 cups (340 g) of semi-sweet chocolate chips using a spatula, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough.
7. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 5 cm (2 in) between each scoop to allow space for spreading.
8. If desired, sprinkle holiday sprinkles over each cookie dough portion before placing them in the preheated oven.
9. Bake in the oven for 10–12 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set but still soft (puffy and lightly golden).
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes.
10. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack using a spatula to cool completely.
Allow them to rest for at least 15 minutes to enhance the texture before serving. Enjoy your freshly baked cookies!
Variations
- Double Chocolate Chip: Replace ½ cup (60 g) of flour with ½ cup (50 g) of cocoa powder for a rich, chocolatey flavor.
- Nutty Delight: Stir in 1 cup (150 g) of chopped walnuts or pecans along with the chocolate chips for added crunch and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute 2 ¼ cups (280 g) of all-purpose flour with an equal amount of gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan Cookies: Replace the eggs with ½ cup (120 g) of unsweetened applesauce and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a delicious plant-based version.
Tips on plating and presentation
After exploring delicious variations of chocolate chip cookies, it’s time to think about how to present them beautifully.
First, choose a decorative platter or a rustic wooden board; both make a lovely backdrop.
Arrange the cookies in a circular pattern, alternating colors and textures for visual interest.
I love adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate over the top for that festive touch.
You can also incorporate seasonal decorations like peppermint sticks or edible gold flakes to elevate the presentation.
Let’s not forget to use cute treat bags tied with ribbons if you’re gifting them.
Finally, place a small card with a personal note to truly make your gift special.
Happy plating!
What other dishes can I pair it with?
Pairing chocolate chip Christmas cookies with the right dishes can elevate your holiday experience. I love serving them alongside rich vanilla ice cream; the warm cookies and cold ice cream create a delightful contrast.
You can also design a festive dessert platter, featuring spiced gingerbread and peppermint bark to complement the cookies’ sweetness. If you’re hosting a brunch, pair them with fresh fruit and a creamy yogurt dip for a sweet yet balanced offering.
Don’t forget about nutty options! Roasted nuts like pecans or walnuts add a savory crunch that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.
Finally, include some festive cheeseboard options, like a mild brie, to create an unexpected but delicious combination. Your holiday spread will impress everyone!
What drinks can I pair it with?
While enjoying chocolate chip Christmas cookies, I often find that the right drink can enhance the experience considerably.
One of my favorites is a classic glass of cold milk; the creaminess perfectly complements the sweetness of the cookies. If you’re looking for something warm, a cup of rich hot chocolate can be heavenly, especially on a chilly evening.
For a festive twist, I love pairing the cookies with spiced apple cider—it brings out the holiday spirit. If you’re in the mood for a caffeine kick, a robust coffee or a cozy latte can balance the sugary goodness.
Each of these options offers a delightful contrast, making every bite of your chocolate chip Christmas cookie even more memorable!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do Chocolate Chip Cookies Stay Fresh?
Chocolate chip cookies stay fresh for about a week when stored in an airtight container. I love keeping mine on the counter, but refrigerating them can extend their freshness for up to two weeks!
Can I Freeze Unbaked Cookie Dough?
Absolutely, I freeze unbaked cookie dough all the time! Just scoop it into balls, place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a bag. They’re ready to bake whenever I crave cookies!
What Makes Chocolate Chip Cookies Chewy?
Chewy chocolate chip cookies come from using more brown sugar than white, chilling the dough, and baking them at a slightly lower temperature. I love how these tips create that perfect chewy texture we all crave!
Are There Gluten-Free Alternatives for This Recipe?
I love using almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour in my recipes. They give a delightful texture while keeping the cookies chewy. Experimenting with these alternatives has led me to some truly delicious results!
How Can I Avoid Flat Cookies?
To avoid flat cookies, I chill the dough before baking, use chilled butter, and guarantee my baking powder is fresh. I also don’t overmix to keep the dough’s structure intact for fluffy cookies.
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