special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies

special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that bring joy to any festive gathering. These cookies combine sweet and salty elements with the crunch of pretzels and potato chips, along with colorful M&M’s and white chocolate chips. Perfect for holiday parties or as a fun treat for family gatherings, these cookies are sure to become a seasonal favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Combination: The mix of sweet chocolate, crunchy pretzels, and salty potato chips creates an irresistible taste experience.
• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a batch in no time!
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for holiday celebrations, these cookies can also be enjoyed year-round.
• Fun for Kids: Involve children in the baking process; they will love mixing in the colorful ingredients.
• Great for Gifting: Package these cookies in a festive box or jar for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Spatula
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugars together to achieve a light, fluffy texture.
• Baking sheets: Provide a sturdy surface for baking multiple cookie batches evenly.
• Cooling rack: Allows cookies to cool properly without becoming soggy on the baking sheet.

Ingredients

Sweet and salty special occasion cookies filled with pretzel and potato chip pieces, M&M’s, white chocolate chips, and sprinkles! These are sure to be a hit this holiday season!

For the Base

• 3/4 cup salted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
• 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract

For the Dry Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Mix-Ins

• 1/2 cup red and green M&M’s
• 1/3 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/3 cup pretzel pieces
• 1/3 cup potato chip pieces
• 2 tbsp red and green jimmies

How to Make special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, add the softened salted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to cream these ingredients together for about two minutes until they are light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla

Next, incorporate the egg yolks and vanilla bean paste (or extract) into the mixture. Mix on medium speed for another two minutes until everything is well combined and fluffy.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix until everything is just combined.

Step 5: Fold in Mix-Ins

Add in the red and green M&M’s, white chocolate chips, pretzel pieces, potato chip pieces, and sprinkles. Gently fold these ingredients into your dough using a spatula until well mixed.

Step 6: Portion Dough onto Baking Sheets

Scoop out dough portions into balls (approximately 20), arranging them about two inches apart on your prepared baking sheets.

Step 7: Optional Extra Toppings

If desired, sprinkle some extra mix-ins on top of each cookie dough ball before baking. This step adds visual appeal!

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Place your trays in the preheated oven to bake for about 10-12 minutes—10 minutes for chewier centers or up to 12 minutes for crisper edges.

Step 9: Shape While Hot (Optional)

When the cookies come out of the oven, use a large circular cookie cutter to shape them perfectly. Simply swirl it around each cookie while still warm.

Step 10: Cool Down

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about five minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Let them cool completely for another ten minutes.

Step 11: Store Leftovers

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Enjoy your festive treats!

How to Serve special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies

special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether at a festive gathering or as a cozy dessert at home, these cookies are sure to impress.

With a Glass of Milk

• Enjoy these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic pairing that enhances the sweet and salty flavors.

As Holiday Party Favors

• Package individual cookies in festive bags to give as party favors, adding a personal touch to your holiday gatherings.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cookies alongside other holiday treats on a large platter for an eye-catching presentation that invites guests to indulge.

With Ice Cream

• Top warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream for an irresistible dessert combination that is perfect for special occasions.

During Movie Night

• Serve these cookies during family movie nights for a cozy snack that everyone will love, making the experience more enjoyable.

How to Perfect special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies

To achieve the best results with your special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring butter and eggs are at room temperature helps create a smoother dough and better texture in your cookies.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to prevent tough cookies. Overmixing can lead to dense results.
• Chill the Cookie Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain their shape while baking.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; remove them when they are lightly golden around the edges for soft centers.
• Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to customize the mix-ins based on your preferences. Different chocolates or nuts can add unique flavors.
• Store Properly: Place leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies

Pairing side dishes with special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies enhances your dessert spread and creates a festive atmosphere. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses complements the sweet and salty flavors, offering a savory contrast that guests will enjoy.
3. Hot Cocoa
   Warm up with rich hot cocoa topped with whipped cream or marshmallows for a comforting drink alongside your cookies.
4. Gingerbread Men
   Traditional gingerbread cookies provide another festive flavor option, perfect for holiday celebrations.
5. Nut Mix
   A simple bowl of spiced nuts offers crunchy texture and savory notes that pair well with sweet treats like these cookies.
6. Caramel Dip with Apples
   Sliced apples paired with caramel dip create a delicious balance between sweet and tart flavors, ideal for dipping while enjoying the cookies.
7. Mini Cupcakes
   Bite-sized cupcakes can add variety to your dessert table, allowing guests to sample different flavors alongside their cookies.

By incorporating these serving suggestions and side dishes, you can elevate your holiday cookie experience!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Boldly skip the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can lead to flat cookies. Make sure to refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking for thicker cookies.
• Boldly ignore ingredient temperatures: Using cold eggs or butter can affect the texture. Always use room temperature eggs and softened butter for the best results.
• Boldly rush the mixing process: Overmixing or undermixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a perfect chewy texture.
• Boldly underestimate baking time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on the cookies and adjust baking time as needed to achieve your desired texture.
• Boldly forget about add-ins: Skipping additional mix-ins like sprinkles or extra chocolate can make your cookies less festive. Be generous with add-ins for a fun touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to three days.
• Keep in a cool, dry place in your kitchen.

Freezing special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.
• Layer parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.

Reheating special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds for a warm cookie.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies.

Can I customize my special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies?

Yes! Feel free to swap out M&M’s or chocolate chips with your favorite candies or nuts.

How do I achieve chewier cookies?

To get chewy special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies, bake them for the shorter time suggested and let them cool on the baking sheet before transferring them.

What other add-ins work well in this recipe?

You can add crushed graham crackers, chopped nuts, or dried fruit for added flavor and texture!

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

These special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile! With endless customization options, you can tailor them to fit any holiday theme. Try this recipe today and create a festive treat that everyone will love!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 20 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the festive spirit with our special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies, a delightful treat that combines sweet and salty flavors in every bite. These cookies are packed with colorful M&M’s, white chocolate chips, crunchy pretzel pieces, and crispy potato chips, making them an exciting addition to your holiday celebrations. With just 15 minutes of prep time, they’re perfect for family gatherings or as cheerful gifts. Involve kids in the baking process for a fun and memorable experience. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or packaged as gifts, these versatile cookies will surely become a seasonal favorite!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3/4 cup salted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
• 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup red and green M&M’s
• 1/3 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/3 cup pretzel pieces
• 1/3 cup potato chip pieces
• 2 tbsp red and green jimmies

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream softened butter with brown and granulated sugars until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
3. Add egg yolks and vanilla; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to the mixture; mix until just combined.
5. Fold in M&M’s, white chocolate chips, pretzel pieces, potato chip pieces, and sprinkles until evenly distributed.
6. Scoop dough into balls (about 20) and place them on prepared baking sheets, spacing them two inches apart.
7. Optionally sprinkle extra mix-ins on top before baking.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes; remove when edges are lightly golden.
9. Cool briefly on the baking sheet before transferring to a cooling rack.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (40g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg