Name: Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
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

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Stop mixing when you still see a few streaks of flour to avoid overworking the dough.

Step 5: Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, and crushed peppermint candies until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight (8 to 12 hours). Remove from the fridge about 15 to 20 minutes before scooping.

Step 7: Scoop 1.5 to 2 tablespoon mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still a bit soft.

Step 8: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 to 7 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. For a festive touch, dust with powdered sugar to create a “snowy” effect.

Tips & Variations

For chewier cookies, substitute half the granulated sugar with light brown sugar.

Use crushed candy canes instead of peppermint candies for a stronger mint flavor and a crunchier texture.

To make the cookies nut-free, ensure all ingredients are free from cross-contamination and omit any optional nuts.

Storage

Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them soft, place a slice of bread in the container to maintain moisture. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving. Reheat briefly in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy a warm cookie.

FAQs

Can I skip chilling the dough?

Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much and enhances the flavors. If you’re short on time, chilling for at least 30 minutes can still improve the texture, but for best results, refrigerate for a few hours or overnight.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap semi-sweet or white chocolate chips with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even peanut butter chips to customize the flavor according to your preference.