The festive season is the perfect time to fill your home with the sweet, mouthwatering aroma of freshly baked cookies. Christmas cookies are not just delightful treats; they bring joy and warmth to gatherings with family and friends. These cookies are soft, chewy, and loaded with chocolatey goodness. Whether you’re looking to share them at a holiday party or savor them with a cup of cocoa by the fireplace, these Christmas cookies will surely make your season brighter.
Why Make This Christmas Cookies
Making Christmas cookies is a cherished tradition that many families look forward to each year. They serve as a great opportunity to bond with loved ones, bake, and create something sweet together. The process of mixing, rolling, and decorating can be just as enjoyable as eating the cookies themselves! Plus, this recipe is simple enough for budding bakers of any age to help out. With rich flavors from butter, sugar, and chocolate, these cookies are a delightful way to spread holiday cheer.
How to Make Christmas Cookies
Making Christmas cookies is a straightforward process. By following a few key steps, you’ll have a batch of delicious cookies ready in no time. The combination of the creamy butter and sugar, the richness of the chocolate chips, and the optional crunch from chopped nuts creates a cookie that’s hard to resist. Don your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking!
Ingredients:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- Sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla and almond extract.
- Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture until combined.
- Finally, fold in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using).
- Drop by rounded spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets and decorate with sprinkles.
- Bake for 9 to 11 minutes in the preheated oven, until golden. Cool on wire racks.
Nutritional Information
Per cookie (assuming approximately 24 cookies):
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 2g
How to Serve Christmas Cookies
Christmas cookies are perfect for sharing and serving during festive gatherings. Arrange them on a decorative holiday platter for an eye-catching display. They pair wonderfully with hot beverages like coffee, tea, or warm milk. For an extra special treat, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. You can also gift them as thoughtful presents to friends, teachers, or neighbors packed in festive tins.
How to Store Christmas Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll last about a week this way. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Place them in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months; just thaw them out before enjoying.
Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Cookies
- For soft and chewy cookies, avoid overmixing the dough after adding the dry ingredients.
- Use room temperature butter and eggs for a smoother batter.
- If you like crispy cookies, extend the baking time slightly.
- Experiment with mix-ins like butterscotch chips, dried cranberries, or coconut flakes for a unique twist.
- If you don’t have almond extract, you can double the amount of vanilla extract for added flavor.
Delicious Variations
- Peppermint Christmas Cookies: Add crushed peppermint candy to the dough before baking for a festive holiday flavor.
- Nutty Chocolate Chip Cookies: Incorporate different nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend for a gluten-free cookie.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for white sugar. This will give your cookies a chewier texture and a richer flavor.How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies will be golden around the edges but soft in the center. They will set as they cool. Avoid overbaking for a chewy texture.What can I substitute for chocolate chips?
You can use any type of chocolate chips such as dark, milk, or white chocolate. Dried fruits or m&ms are also great alternatives!
Conclusion
These Christmas cookies are not just a treat; they’re a delightful way to celebrate the joy and warmth of the holiday season. Easy to make and deliciously satisfying, they are perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging yourself. Don’t hesitate to make these cookies a part of your holiday tradition. Try them out, and share your creations; together, let’s spread a little more joy this season! Happy baking!
Christmas Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla and almond extract.
- Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture until combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using).
- Drop the dough by rounded spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets and decorate with sprinkles.
- Bake for 9 to 11 minutes in the preheated oven until golden.
- Cool on wire racks.