The Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly blend the classic chocolate chip cookie with festive holiday cheer. These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor, making them ideal for gatherings, holiday parties, or simply enjoying at home. With the addition of cinnamon and colorful sprinkles, this recipe brings a unique twist to a beloved favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 5 minutes of prep time, making it easy to whip up a batch for unexpected guests.
- Festive Appeal: The addition of red, green, and white sprinkles gives these cookies a cheerful look perfect for the holiday season.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of semi-sweet and white chocolate chips creates a delightful flavor contrast that everyone will love.
- Versatile Treat: These cookies are perfect for any occasion—from Christmas parties to cozy nights in with family.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon or switch up the types of chocolate chips based on your preferences.
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools before you start.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
- Cookie sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scooper (or tablespoon)
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without any mess.
- Cookie sheet: Provides an even baking surface for perfectly baked cookies.
- Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients
For the Base Mixture
- 1 stick salted butter (1/2 cup) (melted in microwave for about 25 seconds or until completely melted)
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla
For the Dry Ingredients
- 1⅔ cups all purpose white flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (do ¼ or ½ a tsp the first time if you’re not sure if you’re a huge cinnamon fan)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Chocolate and Sprinkles
- 1/2 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup Christmas red/green/white mix sprinkles
How to Make Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line your cookie sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Ground cinnamon
3. Baking soda
4. Salt
Stir together well using a fork until evenly mixed.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Add the melted butter along with light brown sugar and white sugar.
2. Mix together until combined.
3. Add in one large egg and continue mixing well.
4. Pour in vanilla extract and combine thoroughly.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients:
– Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Sprinkles
Using a rubber spatula or wooden spoon:
– Stir in both mini semi-sweet chocolate chips and white chocolate chips.
– Gently fold in the Christmas sprinkles until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 6: Scoop Dough onto Cookie Sheet
Using a cookie scooper or by forming two tablespoon mounds:
– Place them on the prepared cookie sheets, spacing them apart as they will spread while baking.
Step 7: Bake Your Cookies
Bake in your preheated oven for approximately 11 minutes:
– Once done, remove from oven but let them sit on the cookie sheet for at least 10 minutes to finish baking before transferring them to a cooling rack. If you prefer less gooey cookies, bake for an additional minute.
Enjoy your delicious Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies!
How to Serve Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies
Serving Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies can be just as fun as baking them. These festive treats are perfect for sharing with friends and family during the holiday season. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.
Cookie Platter
- Arrange an assortment of cookies on a colorful platter. Mix in other holiday cookies for a festive display.
Milk Pairing
- Serve warm cookies with a cold glass of milk. The combination of chocolate and milk is a classic favorite that everyone loves.
Holiday Ice Cream Sundae
- Crumble cookies over vanilla or peppermint ice cream. Top with chocolate syrup and whipped cream for a delicious sundae.
Gift Bags
- Package cookies in decorative bags as gifts. Add a personal touch by including a handwritten note or recipe card.
Coffee Companion
- Offer cookies alongside a cup of hot coffee or cocoa. The rich flavors complement each other perfectly.
Festive Dessert Bar
- Create a dessert bar at your holiday gathering, featuring your Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies along with other sweets and toppings.
How to Perfect Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies
Perfecting your Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these guidelines to achieve cookie perfection every time.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your butter and egg sit out before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until ingredients are just combined to keep the cookies soft and tender.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. Chilling helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor.
- Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. For a chewier texture, take them out just before they look fully baked.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Try different types of chocolate chips or nuts for unique flavor variations in your cookies.
- Store Properly: Place cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for longer periods.
Best Side Dishes for Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies
Pairing side dishes with Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies can elevate your dessert table further. Here are some great options to consider.
- Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of cocoa topped with marshmallows makes for the ultimate cozy pairing.
- Eggnog: This traditional holiday drink complements the sweet flavors of chocolate chip cookies beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast to rich, sweet cookies.
- Cheese Platter: Include creamy cheeses that balance the sweetness of the cookies for an interesting flavor profile.
- Nut Mix: A savory nut mix adds crunch and texture alongside soft, chewy cookies.
- Spiced Tea: Warm spiced tea enhances the cinnamon flavor in the cookies while adding warmth during chilly holidays.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Pecan Pie Bars: For those who love desserts, these bars offer another layer of sweet indulgence alongside your cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies can be a joy, but there are common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Incorrect oven temperature: Always preheat your oven before baking. An unheated oven can lead to uneven cooking and flat cookies.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can develop gluten, making your cookies tough. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
- Neglecting ingredient measurements: Use proper measuring tools for accuracy. Too much flour or sugar can drastically change your cookie’s consistency.
- Not chilling the dough: If you have time, chill your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor.
- Skipping the cooling period: Allow cookies to cool on the sheet before transferring them. This helps them set properly and avoid breaking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- They will last about 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Wrap cookies individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a quick treat.
- Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about one minute until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies:
How do I make my Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies chewy?
To achieve chewiness, add an extra egg yolk or reduce the baking time slightly.
Can I use dark chocolate chips instead?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate chips add a rich flavor and pair wonderfully with the holiday spices.
What if I don’t have brown sugar?
You can substitute granulated sugar with an equal amount of white sugar; however, this may affect moisture and flavor.
How do I decorate my Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Consider using icing, sprinkles, or edible glitter to give your cookies a festive look.
Final Thoughts
These Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize them with different types of chocolate chips or seasonal spices. Perfect for sharing during the holidays, they bring warmth and joy to any gathering. Try making this delightful recipe today!
Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies
Indulge in the festive spirit with these delightful Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies. This easy-to-follow recipe combines the classic chocolate chip cookie with a holiday twist, featuring hints of cinnamon and colorful sprinkles. Perfectly soft and chewy, these cookies are ideal for gatherings, gift-giving, or cozy nights at home. With just a few simple ingredients and quick preparation time, you’ll have a batch of cheerful cookies ready to share with family and friends, spreading joy and warmth throughout the season.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 stick salted butter (1/2 cup, melted)
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1⅔ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup Christmas red/green/white mix sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, white sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips and sprinkles gently.
- Scoop dough onto prepared cookie sheet in tablespoon-sized mounds.
- Bake for about 11 minutes or until edges are golden; cool on the sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
