Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

Why Make This Recipe

Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies are a festive treat perfect for the holiday season. They combine the classic taste of chocolate chip cookies with a delightful twist of white chocolate and peppermint. These cookies not only taste amazing but also look beautiful, making them ideal for sharing with friends and family. Baking these cookies fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma, creating a cozy atmosphere during the cold winter months.

How to Make Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). In a large bowl, mix the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until creamy. Next, add in the eggs, one at a time, and the vanilla extract. Mix well.

2. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Finally, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, and crushed peppermint candies.

3. Drop rounded tablespoons of the cookie dough onto ungreased baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

Serve these cookies warm with a glass of milk or cup of hot cocoa for a delightful treat. You can also plate them up nicely and gift them to friends and family during the holiday season. They make a great addition to any festive gathering or cookie exchange.

How to Store Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to one week. If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze the cookies. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will last for about three months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Tips to Make Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
• For extra peppermint flavor, use peppermint extract in addition to vanilla extract.
• Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, like dark or milk chocolate, for a unique twist.
• Do not overmix the dough to keep your cookies soft and chewy.

Variation

You can easily make these cookies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.

FAQs

1. Can I use different kinds of chocolate chips?
   Yes, you can use any type of chocolate chips you prefer, such as dark chocolate or milk chocolate.

2. How can I make these cookies more festive?
   Add some holiday-themed sprinkles or colored sugars to the top of the cookies before baking for a more colorful look.

3. What can I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
   Ensure your butter is not too warm and chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent excess spreading.