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What kind of recipe is it?
Rudolph Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies are delightful, festive treats perfect for the holiday season.
These soft and chewy cookies are decorated to resemble Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, making them visually appealing and fun for kids and adults alike.
With rich chocolate chips and a touch of holiday spirit, they’re ideal for family gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply to enjoy with a glass of milk.
Baking these cookies brings joy and creativity into the kitchen, making them a special addition to any festive celebration.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups (320g) |
| Baking soda | 1 tsp |
| Baking powder | ½ tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (226g), softened |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup (150g) |
| Brown sugar (packed) | ¾ cup (165g) |
| Large eggs | 2 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | 1 cup (180g) |
| Mini chocolate chips | ½ cup (90g) |
| Red M&M’s candies | For decoration (approx. 20) |
| Pretzel twists | For antlers (approx. 10) |
This list provides all the essential ingredients needed for creating delicious Rudolph Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies. Make sure to measure each ingredient accurately for the best results!
Cooking Steps
- Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and position the oven rack in the center. Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups (320 g) of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp of baking soda, ½ tsp of baking powder, and ½ tsp of salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, cream together 1 cup (226 g) of softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup (150 g) of granulated sugar, and ¾ cup (165 g) of packed brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then incorporate 1 tsp of vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth, about 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients from step 2 to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until combined. Don’t overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky.
- Fold in 1 cup (180 g) of semi-sweet chocolate chips and ½ cup (90 g) of mini chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough using a spatula.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 5 cm (2 inches) apart. Aim for approximately 10-12 cookies per sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are light golden brown and the centers appear slightly underbaked. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, decorate each cookie with 2 red M&M’s as Rudolph’s nose and 2 pretzel twists on each side for antlers. Use a bit of melted chocolate to secure the decorations if necessary.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Enjoy the festive flavors and delightful textures!
Variations
- Peppermint Chocolate Chip: Add ½ tsp (2.5 ml) of peppermint extract and incorporate crushed candy canes (100 g) into the dough for an invigorating holiday twist.
- Gluten-Free Delight: Substitute all-purpose flour with 2 ½ cups (320 g) of gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to create a gluten-free version without sacrificing texture.
- Vegan Version: Replace unsalted butter with 1 cup (226 g) of coconut oil or vegan butter and use flax eggs (2 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 6 tbsp water) in place of the eggs for a dairy-free, vegan option.
- Nutty Bourgeois: Add 1 cup (120 g) of chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for a rich, nutty flavor and added crunch.
Tips on plating and presentation
While baking Rudolph Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies is a delightful experience, presenting them beautifully can elevate your holiday festivities.
First, I like to use a festive platter—something with holiday colors or designs adds a nice touch. I arrange the cookies in a circular pattern, starting from the outside and working my way in, which creates an appealing focal point.
To enhance the theme, I sprinkle edible glitter or powdered sugar over the cookies to mimic snow. Adding some cute decorative elements like mini candy canes or small ornaments around the platter makes it more festive.
Finally, I always make sure to have a small sign indicating the cookie flavor. These little touches make my presentation more inviting and cheerful for my guests!
What other dishes can I pair it with?
To create a festive spread that complements your Rudolph Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies, I like to pair them with a variety of delightful treats. Mini gingerbread houses are a perfect match, bringing a traditional holiday vibe that’s hard to resist.
I also enjoy presenting a cheese platter with a mix of sharp and creamy cheeses, which balances the sweetness of the cookies. Fruit skewers filled with vibrant berries and pineapple add a fresh, colorful touch that’s visually appealing.
To top it off, I often include a bowl of festive nuts for a crunchy contrast. Each of these dishes not only enhances the flavor experience but also creates a warm, inviting atmosphere for holiday gatherings.
What drinks can I pair it with?
When I’m enjoying my Rudolph Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies, I love to pair them with festive drinks that enhance their sweet charm.
A classic choice is a warm cup of hot cocoa, topped with whipped cream or marshmallows. It complements the cookies perfectly, and who doesn’t love a cozy drink?
For something more whimsical, I’ll whip up a peppermint-flavored milkshake; its coolness contrasts beautifully with the cookie’s warmth.
If I’m feeling adventurous, I might even mix holiday eggnog with a splash of rum for an adult twist.
And let’s not forget about spiced apple cider; its fruity and spicy notes elevate my cookie experience.
These delightful drinks make my holiday gatherings all the more special!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Gluten-Free Flour in This Recipe?
Absolutely, you can use gluten-free flour in the recipe! I’ve done it myself, and the cookies still turn out delicious. Just make sure it’s a good blend for baking, and you’ll have amazing results!
How Long Do the Cookies Stay Fresh?
Freshness typically lasts about a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If I freeze them, they’ll stay tasty for about three months. I love enjoying them even after a while!
Can I Freeze These Cookies for Later?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies for later! I usually place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready, just thaw them at room temperature, and they’ll taste fresh again!
What Can I Substitute for Chocolate Chips?
I usually substitute chocolate chips with chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even peanut butter chips. They add delightful flavors and textures, making my cookies unique and satisfying. Just experiment and find what you love best!
How Do I Store Leftover Cookies?
I store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. If I want them fresher longer, I freeze them in a zip-top bag. Just let them thaw before enjoying again! It’s that easy!