Why Make This Recipe
Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect treat for the holiday season. With their delightful mix of semi-sweet and white chocolate, along with a hint of peppermint, these cookies capture the essence of winter. They bring warmth and joy to cold days, making them an ideal snack to share with family and friends during festive gatherings. Plus, who can resist the magic of freshly baked cookies right out of the oven?
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:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed mixture, mixing until well combined.
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, and crushed peppermint candies.
- Drop by rounded tablespoon onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake for 9 to 11 minutes in the preheated oven, until the edges are golden brown.
- Let cool on wire racks.
How to Serve Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies are best enjoyed warm, right out of the oven. Serve them with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of hot cocoa for a perfect winter treat. They also make wonderful gifts when placed in a festive tin or box.
How to Store Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to place them in a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper, to prevent sticking.
Tips to Make Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened, as it helps to create a smooth dough.
- Don’t overmix the cookie batter once you add the flour; mix just until combined for soft cookies.
- Experiment with different types of chips, like dark chocolate or peanut butter, for a unique flavor.
Variation
You can adjust the peppermint candies to your liking. If you prefer a stronger peppermint flavor, add more crushed candies. Alternatively, you can skip them altogether for a classic chocolate chip cookie.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but the cookies may have a slightly different texture.
What can I use instead of butter?
You can use a vegan butter substitute or coconut oil to make these cookies dairy-free.
How can I tell when the cookies are done?
Look for the edges to be golden brown while the centers may still look a bit soft. They will continue to cook as they cool on the baking sheet.