Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

Name: Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the delightful flavors of the season with these Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies, perfectly soft and chewy, loaded with chocolate chips.

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2025-12-21T03:11:00.460Z

These Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies are a festive treat that brings warmth and joy during the colder months. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, they are sure to become a holiday favorite!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with a hint of vanilla
Soft and chewy texture that’s irresistible
Perfect for cozy gatherings and holiday celebrations

      

The Perfect Winter Treat

As the temperatures drop and the holiday season approaches, nothing warms the heart quite like a batch of freshly baked cookies. These Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies are designed to bring comfort and joy to your kitchen. Their soft and chewy texture makes them a delightful treat for family gatherings, cozy nights by the fire, or as a sweet surprise for holiday guests.

With their rich chocolate flavor and a hint of vanilla, each bite is a reminder of the warmth and joy that comes with the winter season. Whether you're enjoying them with a cup of hot cocoa or sharing them with loved ones, these cookies are sure to create lasting memories.

Baking these cookies together with family can also be a fun and engaging activity. Involving kids in the kitchen not only makes the process enjoyable but also teaches them valuable baking skills and the joy of creating something delicious from scratch.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

To achieve the perfect texture, ensure that your butter is at room temperature before you begin. This allows for better incorporation with the sugars, resulting in a lighter and fluffier dough. Avoid using melted butter, as this can lead to flat cookies that lack the desired chewiness.

When measuring your flour, it's essential to spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This method prevents you from packing too much flour into the cup, which could result in denser cookies. Remember, the right flour-to-fat ratio is key to achieving that perfect soft and chewy cookie.

Don’t skip the resting time! Allowing the dough to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking can enhance the flavors and improve the cookie's structure. This simple step can make a noticeable difference in the final product.

Storing and Freezing Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, but be warned: they might not stick around that long! If you want to make them ahead of time, consider freezing the dough. Scoop the cookie dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag. This way, you can bake just the number you need whenever a cookie craving strikes.

If you have leftover baked cookies, they can also be frozen for later enjoyment. Simply place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you're ready to indulge, let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.

Reheating cookies can restore some of that fresh-baked goodness, making them a perfect treat to enjoy any time of the year. Whether it’s a snowy evening or a cozy holiday gathering, these cookies are a delightful addition to your celebrations.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Scoop and Bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Holiday Cookie Exchange

Participating in a holiday cookie exchange is a wonderful way to share your baking prowess and discover new recipes. When you bring these Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies, you’ll not only impress your friends but also spread the festive cheer. Package them beautifully to enhance their appeal; a simple ribbon or festive box can make all the difference.

As you exchange cookies, take the opportunity to gather tips and tricks from fellow bakers. You might stumble upon a unique ingredient or technique that elevates your future baking sessions. Plus, it’s a great way to bond with friends and family over a shared love for sweet treats.

Pairing Suggestions

These cookies pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. A warm cup of milk or hot chocolate complements their rich chocolate flavor perfectly, making for a cozy snack. For adults, consider serving them alongside a glass of spiced red wine or a festive mulled cider to enhance the holiday spirit.

You can also get creative with toppings! Drizzle some melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an extra indulgent touch or sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before baking to enhance the flavors. These simple additions can elevate your cookies from delicious to extraordinary.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate chips instead?

Yes, dark chocolate chips can be used for a richer flavor.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just thaw and bake when you're ready.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use flax eggs or applesauce as an egg substitute for a vegan option.