Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

Soft and chewy, Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect festive treat to brighten up your winter holidays. These cookies combine the classic chocolate chip flavor with a delightful hint of peppermint, making them an ideal dessert for Christmas gatherings, cozy family nights, or as gifts in a treat box. Their unique twist and easy preparation will surely make them a seasonal favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Flavor: The addition of crushed peppermint candies gives these cookies a holiday spirit that everyone will love.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holiday parties, gift-giving, or simply enjoying at home with loved ones.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Each bite offers a delightful softness that melts in your mouth.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy baking and devouring these tasty cookies together.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating delicious cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining your wet and dry ingredients without spilling.
• Baking sheet: A good-quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.
• Cookie scoop: This tool helps create uniform cookie sizes for even baking and presentation.

Ingredients

Soft and chewy chocolate chip cookies with a festive twist, perfect for winter holidays.

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

How to Make Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the cookies.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
* Softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
Use a whisk or electric mixer to blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together:
* All-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
Stir until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips and Peppermint Candies

Fold in:
* Semi-sweet chocolate chips,
* White chocolate chips,
* Crushed peppermint candies.
Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Scoop Cookies onto Baking Sheet

Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a lined baking sheet. Leave space between each cookie for spreading during baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may look slightly soft; they’ll firm up as they cool.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy your Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies warm or store them in an airtight container!

How to Serve Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

Serving Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies is a delightful way to spread joy during the winter holidays. These festive treats are perfect for gatherings, cozy nights in, or as a sweet surprise for loved ones.

Festive Gift Boxes

• Create beautiful gift boxes filled with cookies and decorate them with ribbons for a charming holiday present.

Hot Cocoa Pairing

• Serve these cookies alongside a warm mug of hot cocoa. The chocolate pairs beautifully, enhancing the cozy experience.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to make ice cream sandwiches. Choose peppermint or vanilla ice cream for a refreshing twist.

Holiday Cookie Platter

• Arrange an assortment of your favorite holiday cookies on a platter. Include Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies for added charm.

Cookie Decorating Station

• Set up a decorating station where guests can frost and add toppings to their cookies for a fun and interactive treat.

How to Perfect Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

To achieve the ultimate batch of Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies, consider these helpful tips:

• Chill the dough – Refrigerating your cookie dough for at least an hour helps prevent spreading and results in thicker cookies.
• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and consistency.
• Measure flour correctly – Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense cookies caused by too much flour.
• Don’t overmix the batter – Mix just until combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
• Experiment with toppings – Add crushed nuts or additional chocolate chips on top before baking for extra texture.
• Store properly – Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

Complement your Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies with these delightful side dishes that enhance their festive appeal:

1. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.
2. Spiced Apple Cider – Warm spiced apple cider creates a cozy beverage pairing that enhances any cookie experience.
3. Cheese Board – Include a variety of cheeses, crackers, and dried fruits for guests to enjoy alongside their sweet treats.
4. Nut Mix – A selection of roasted nuts provides a savory crunch that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
5. Yogurt Parfaits – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy treat that complements the indulgence of cookies.
6. Veggie Platter – Fresh vegetables served with hummus offer a light option that contrasts nicely with dessert flavors.
7. Hot Chocolate Bar – Set up a hot chocolate bar with toppings like marshmallows and whipped cream for an interactive dessert experience.
8. Mini Pies – Offer mini fruit pies or tarts as an alternative sweet treat that pairs well with chocolate chip goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• It’s easy to overlook details in baking. Here are some common mistakes to help you achieve perfect Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies.

• Incorrect butter temperature: Using cold butter can lead to dense cookies. Ensure your butter is softened for a light and chewy texture.

• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading. Don’t skip this crucial step for beautifully shaped cookies.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix just until combined for soft and tender treats.
• Not measuring flour properly: Too much flour can dry out the cookies. Use a scale or spoon and level method for accuracy.
• Ignoring baking time: Each oven is different. Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be golden at the edges but still soft in the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Freezing Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes for a warm, fresh taste.
• Microwave: Warm each cookie for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Baking can raise many questions, especially when trying a new recipe like Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies. Here are some common queries answered.

How long do Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies last?

These cookies last up to one week in the refrigerator when stored properly.

Can I freeze Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Yes, you can freeze these cookies for up to three months without losing their delicious flavor.

What can I use instead of peppermint candies?

You could substitute with crushed nuts or additional chocolate chips if you prefer.

Are these cookies suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! These cookies make great gifts during the winter holidays, especially when bundled in a festive box.

Final Thoughts

The Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies are an inviting treat that adds joy to any winter gathering. Their soft and chewy texture combined with festive flavors makes them adaptable for various occasions. Feel free to customize them by adding different types of chocolate or nuts according to your taste!

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

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Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Get ready to indulge in the delightful flavors of Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies, a festive treat that will elevate your winter holidays! These soft and chewy cookies blend classic chocolate chip goodness with a refreshing hint of peppermint, making them perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy family nights, or as thoughtful gifts. Easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, these cookies encapsulate the warmth and joy of the season. Whip up a batch and watch them disappear!

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Ingredients

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• 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

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet ingredients until just mixed.
5. Fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, and crushed peppermint candies.
6. Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a lined baking sheet with space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are golden brown; centers should remain soft.
8. Cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (about 30g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 85mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 25mg