why make this recipe
Christmas Cookies are a timeless holiday favorite — comforting, shareable, and easy to personalize. This chocolate-chip–style version balances buttery dough with sweet chips and optional nuts for texture, making it perfect for cookie swaps, school parties, or a cozy night by the tree.
introduction
These Christmas Cookies are simple to make, forgiving for bakers of all levels, and bake quickly so you can produce large batches for gifting. The recipe yields soft centers with slightly crisp edges and a classic home-baked aroma that fills the kitchen.
how to make Christmas Cookies
Follow the ingredients and directions below for reliably delicious results. Pay attention to creaming the butter and sugars well and chilling is not required here, which speeds up the process during busy holiday baking.
Ingredients :
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1 cup unsalted butter, soft, 1 1/2 cups white sugar, 1 cup packed brown sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 large eggs, 2 cups chocolate chips, 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the vanilla, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
- Stir in chocolate chips and nuts (if using).
- Drop by large spoonfuls onto ungreased pans.
- Bake for about 9 to 11 minutes in the preheated oven, or until edges are nicely browned.
- Let cool on wire racks.
how to serve Christmas Cookies
Serve warm or at room temperature. Arrange on a festive platter or in tins layered with parchment paper for gifting. Pair with hot cocoa, mulled cider, or a glass of milk for a classic combination.
how to store Christmas Cookies
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
tips to make Christmas Cookies
- Measure flour properly: spoon into the cup and level off to avoid dense cookies.
- Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy for tender texture.
- Don’t overbake — remove when edges are golden; centers will continue to set as they cool.
- For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop.
- If dough spreads too much, briefly chill scooped dough on the baking sheet before baking.
variation (if any)
- Festive mix-ins: swap half the chocolate chips for red and green candies or M&M®-style pieces.
- Spice them: add 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg for a warm holiday flavor.
- White chocolate and cranberry: replace chocolate chips with white chocolate chips and dried cranberries for a tart-sweet twist.
- Gluten-free: use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and check texture; you may need a tablespoon more liquid.
FAQ
Q: Can I make the dough ahead?
A: Yes — prepare the dough, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for up to 48 hours or freeze for up to 1 month. Bring to room temperature or bake from chilled (add a minute or two to baking time).
Q: Can I use margarine or salted butter?
A: Unsalted butter is best for consistent results; if using salted butter, omit added salt in other recipes and be mindful of the flavor.
Q: How do I keep cookies soft?
A: Slightly underbake by a minute or two and store with a slice of bread in the container to help retain moisture.
Conclusion
For a decorated sugar-cookie alternative or for ideas on festive icing and shaping, see this detailed guide: Christmas Sugar Cookies Recipe with Easy Icing – Sally’s Baking
Christmas Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the vanilla, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
- Stir in chocolate chips and nuts (if using).
- Drop by large spoonfuls onto ungreased pans.
- Bake for about 9 to 11 minutes in the preheated oven, or until edges are nicely browned.
- Let cool on wire racks.
