Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies: A Holiday Classic
Christmas chocolate chip cookies are a cherished holiday treat, bringing warmth, sweetness, and festive cheer to the season. These cookies, with their soft, chewy centers and gooey chocolate chunks, are perfect for sharing with loved ones, gifting, or enjoying alongside a mug of hot cocoa.
History
Chocolate chip cookies were first created by Ruth Graves Wakefield in 1938 at the Toll House Inn in Whitman, Massachusetts. Over the decades, they became an integral part of holiday traditions, as families began to customize them with seasonal touches like red and green sprinkles or white chocolate drizzle to suit the Christmas spirit.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients:
1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients:
3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Mix-ins:
2 cups (340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup (75g) festive sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Preparation
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- Mixing
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Adding Mix-ins
Fold in chocolate chips and sprinkles (if using) until evenly distributed.
- Shaping and Baking
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to form 1.5-inch dough balls. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 8–10 minutes or until edges are golden but centers are still soft.
- Cooling
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Benefits
Emotional Comfort: These cookies provide a nostalgic and joyful experience, making them a favorite at family gatherings.
Energy Boost: The combination of sugar and chocolate offers a quick energy pick-me-up during busy holiday festivities.
Customizable: Adding nuts, dried fruit, or even peppermint extract makes these cookies versatile for all preferences.
Nutrition (per cookie, approx.)
Calories: 180
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 15g
Formation Ideas
Use holiday-themed cookie cutters to shape the dough before baking.
Drizzle melted white chocolate over the cookies and sprinkle with crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
Stack the cookies in clear bags tied with ribbon for delightful holiday gifts.
Conclusion
Christmas chocolate chip cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a symbol of love, togetherness, and the joy of the season. Their rich flavor and customizable nature make them a favorite among cookie lovers worldwide.
For the Lovers
Chocolate chip cookie enthusiasts often cherish the slightly crisp edges and soft centers of a perfectly baked cookie. Whether dipped in milk, savored slowly, or shared in a holiday cookie swap, these treats continue to captivate hearts and taste buds alike.