Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies

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Step into the coziest corner of the holiday season with these Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies. These cookies aren’t just a treat; they’re a magical experience wrapped in festive warmth and melted chocolate. Imagine a soft, buttery center packed with gooey chocolate chips, festive red and green sprinkles, and a hint of peppermint that brings the holiday spirit alive in every bite.

Perfect for cookie exchanges, Christmas Eve baking traditions, or leaving out for Santa, these cookies have just the right balance of classic flavor and seasonal sparkle. They’re simple enough for beginner bakers and special enough to wow your guests with holiday charm.

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What Makes These Christmas Cookies So Special?

The magic lies in their festive twist on a classic favorite. By blending traditional chocolate chip cookie dough with holiday touches like crushed candy canes, winter-themed sprinkles, and a little almond extract, you get something comforting yet playful. These cookies are chewy in the center, golden on the edges, and full of merry flavors that taste like December.

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Ingredients for the Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup red and green sprinkles
• 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (optional)

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How To Make the Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes with an electric mixer.

Step 2: Add the Eggs and Extracts

Beat in the eggs one at a time. Then stir in the vanilla and almond extracts. The almond adds a subtle festive flavor that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep your cookies soft.

Step 4: Fold in the Fun

Stir in the chocolate chips, sprinkles, and crushed candy canes (if using). Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Chill and Preheat

Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to place mounds of dough about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 9–11 minutes or until the edges are just starting to brown. The centers will still look slightly soft—that’s perfect.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or store for later.

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How to Serve and Store Your Winter Wonderland Cookies

Serve these cookies slightly warm with a glass of milk or a mug of hot cocoa for peak holiday comfort. They’re great for dessert trays, cookie swaps, and as edible gifts wrapped in festive tins.

To store, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies or dough balls in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months. Simply bake frozen dough for an extra 1–2 minutes when ready.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep my cookies soft?

Make sure not to over-bake them. Pull them from the oven when the centers are still a little underdone and let them finish setting as they cool.

Can I use white chocolate or dark chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Mix and match chocolate types depending on your preference. White chocolate adds sweetness, while dark chocolate brings richness.

Do I have to chill the dough?

Chilling helps control spreading and gives the flavors time to meld. If you’re short on time, 20 minutes is better than nothing, but 30+ minutes is ideal.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for the best texture.

What’s the best way to crush candy canes?

Place them in a zip-top bag and crush them gently with a rolling pin. Don’t overdo it—you want small bits, not powder.

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies, you might also want to try:

• Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies for fruity festive bites.
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars if you crave a decadent layered treat.
• Bisquick Chocolate Chip Cookies for quick and nostalgic baking.
• Cherry Chocolate Cheesecake for rich, velvety holiday indulgence.
• Irresistible Pecan Pie Bites for bite-sized seasonal sweetness.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go for the crushed candy canes? Mix in some white chocolate? Maybe added a drizzle of icing on top?

I love seeing how each of you makes these your own. Got questions or tips to share? Drop them below and let’s bake our way through the holidays together.

Explore more festive treats at Nina Dishes on Pinterest

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