If you’re looking for a delightful, fuss-free way to bake up a festive batch of cookies this season, this Sheet Pan Christmas Cookies Recipe is an absolute game changer. Imagine buttery, soft, chocolate-studded cookie squares baked all in one pan, creating a perfect combination of holiday flavors and easy preparation. Whether it’s for a last-minute treat or to share joy with loved ones, these cookies bring warmth and cheer with every bite, proving that the best holiday memories sometimes start with something wonderfully simple in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right makes all the difference, and this recipe keeps things beautifully straightforward. Each component serves a purpose, from the rich butter that guarantees tender texture to the chocolate chips that add irresistible pockets of sweetness and festive fun.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for your cookie dough, providing structure and softness when baked.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds essential sweetness and helps cookies brown perfectly.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Brings moisture and a subtle caramel depth for that classic cookie flavor.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Ensures a gentle rise for tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavors.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: The secret to richness and a luscious crumb in every bite.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together while adding extra moisture and tenderness.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses your cookies with warm, inviting aroma and flavor.
- 1 cup chocolate chips: Your pockets of melty chocolate goodness that make these festive cookies extra special.
How to Make Sheet Pan Christmas Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking — this simple prep makes a huge difference when you’re ready to pull those perfect cookie squares out of the oven.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. This even distribution is key to making sure every bite of your Sheet Pan Christmas Cookies Recipe has the perfect softness and rise.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with both the granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This creaming step incorporates air, which helps create that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture we all crave.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add eggs one at a time to the creamed butter mixture, beating well after each addition to fully combine. Stir in the vanilla extract, which will awaken the entire batch with its cozy, festive aroma.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gently mix in the dry ingredients with the wet mixture until just combined — overmixing can toughen your cookies, so keep it light. Then fold in the chocolate chips evenly so every square will have that gorgeous sprinkle of chocolate.
Step 6: Spread and Bake
Spread the cookie dough evenly over your prepared sheet pan, smoothing the top for consistent thickness. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown. Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool completely on the pan to firm up before cutting them into delightful squares ready to be enjoyed.
How to Serve Sheet Pan Christmas Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Add a little extra festive touch by dusting your cookie squares lightly with powdered sugar or decorating with a drizzle of melted white chocolate. Sprinkling crushed peppermint candy on top right after baking adds a refreshing holiday crunch and a pop of color.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm mug of hot cocoa topped with marshmallows or a creamy cup of spiced coffee. They’re also fantastic alongside a festive glass of milk, perfect for sharing the holiday spirit with kids and adults alike.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation makes everything feel extra special during the holidays. Try stacking cookie squares on a decorative platter lined with festive napkins or arrange them in clear cellophane bags tied with seasonal ribbons for charming homemade gifts. You can also layer cookie squares between sheets of wax paper in a holiday tin, making for a lovely surprise when opened.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store these Sheet Pan Christmas Cookies Recipe leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This helps preserve their soft texture while keeping them deliciously fresh for sharing all week long.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead for holiday gatherings, these cookie squares freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months without losing their flavor or texture.
Reheating
To enjoy frozen cookies as if freshly baked, simply thaw them at room temperature. For a warm treat, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes to refresh that soft, just-baked feel. Avoid microwaving for too long, as that can make them tough or overly soft.
FAQs
Can I use different types of chocolate chips in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap semisweet chocolate chips for dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips to match your holiday preferences. Each type will bring a unique flavor profile to your Sheet Pan Christmas Cookies Recipe.
Is it possible to add nuts or dried fruit to the cookie dough?
Yes, adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or dried cranberries, can add wonderful texture and festive flavors. Just fold them in during the step when you add the chocolate chips to keep everything evenly distributed.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum or another binder. This swap should maintain the tender texture of your cookies.
How thick should I spread the cookie dough on the sheet pan?
Try to spread the dough in an even layer about 1/2 inch thick. This helps the cookies bake uniformly and achieve a soft, chewy texture throughout the sheet pan.
What’s the best way to cut the cookie into squares without breaking them?
Wait until the cookies are completely cooled on the pan before slicing. Using a sharp knife will help you cut clean squares without crumbling, and warming the knife slightly beforehand can provide even smoother cuts.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Sheet Pan Christmas Cookies Recipe enough for anyone who loves hassle-free holiday baking with maximum joy. It’s simple, scrumptious, and perfect for filling your kitchen with warm aromas and happy memories. So grab your sheet pan, whip up this easy dough, and share a batch of tasty festive squares that everyone will adore!
Print
Sheet Pan Christmas Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these festive Sheet Pan Christmas Cookies, a simple and delicious treat perfect for holiday gatherings. With a buttery base combined with a mix of granulated and brown sugars, enhanced by vanilla and studded with chocolate chips, this easy-to-make cookie recipe is baked all at once on a sheet pan, saving time and effort while delivering classic, chewy cookies that bring warmth and joy to any celebration.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter mixture, beating well after each addition to incorporate air and ensure even mixing. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the dough. Fold in the chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough.
- Shape and Bake: Spread the cookie dough evenly on the prepared sheet pan, smoothing it out to an even thickness. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the sheet before cutting into squares to maintain shape and texture.
Notes
- For chewier cookies, slightly underbake and allow cooling on the pan.
- You can substitute chocolate chips with nuts or dried cranberries for variation.
- Make sure butter is softened (not melted) for optimal creaming results.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week.
