The Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is a festive twist on a beloved classic that will instantly bring holiday cheer to your kitchen. Bursting with melty chocolate chips and vibrant red and green sprinkles, these cookies are soft, chewy, and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, gifting to friends, or simply craving a sweet seasonal treat, this recipe combines simple ingredients in a way that turns every bite into a celebration of warmth and joy.

Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first joyous step toward making these colorful, flavorful cookies. Each component plays a unique role in creating the perfect texture and delightful taste that make this Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe so special.

¾ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve a tender crumb.
¾ cup packed brown sugar: Brings moisture and a subtle caramel flavor for chewy goodness.
1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and keeps the cookies soft and buttery.
2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and contribute to the cookies’ structure.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, familiar aroma.
2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the dough its shape and chew.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps cookies rise gently, creating a light yet chewy texture.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and amplifies flavors.
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: The star ingredient that melts into pockets of chocolatey delight.
½ cup red and green holiday sprinkles: Adds festive color and a bit of crisp texture for that holiday spirit.

How to Make Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your cookies don’t stick and come out perfectly shaped every time. This simple prep sets the stage for baking success.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter together with granulated and brown sugars until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial for giving your cookies their tender and airy texture that melts in your mouth.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, beat in the eggs one at a time to fully incorporate them. Adding the vanilla extract at this point infuses the dough with that classic warm, comforting aroma we all love in baked goods.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt together. This ensures the leavening and seasoning are evenly distributed, so your cookies bake consistently.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir just until combined to avoid overworking the dough, which can lead to tougher cookies.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Sprinkles

Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and the festive red and green holiday sprinkles. This step brings the signature look and flavor to your cookies that make this Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe stand out.

Step 7: Scoop and Space the Dough

Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheet, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading as they bake.

Step 8: Bake and Cool

Bake for 10-12 minutes until the cookie edges turn a lovely golden brown while the centers remain soft. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely—this way they set perfectly without breaking.

How to Serve Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little extra red and green holiday sprinkles on top right after baking for an added dash of sparkle and festivity. A light dusting of powdered sugar also creates a soft snowy effect, making your cookies look as joyful as they taste.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a warm glass of milk or a mug of rich hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy holiday treat. They also make a delightful companion alongside a cheese platter or fruit salad at Christmas parties, balancing sweets with savory or fresh flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the cookies tied with a festive ribbon for a charming homemade gift. Serving them on a holiday-themed platter or nestled in decorative tins also earns you brownie points for presentation that screams Christmas spirit.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay fresh and chewy for up to a week. Layering sheets of parchment paper between stacks prevents sticking without dulling the sprinkles or chip integrity.

Freezing

You can freeze the cookie dough balls before baking, either on a tray or packed tightly in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed. Alternatively, store baked cookies frozen in a sealed bag and thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

Warm your cookies gently in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds to revive that fresh-from-the-oven softness. Alternatively, heat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to bring back their melty chocolate chip magic without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, you can substitute salted butter, but be sure to reduce or omit any additional salt in the recipe to avoid an overly salty taste.

What if I don’t have holiday sprinkles? Can I skip them?

Absolutely! The sprinkles add festive color but are optional. You can also substitute with chopped nuts or white chocolate chips to suit your preference.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

To make vegan cookies, replace butter with a plant-based alternative, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs, and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

How do I keep my cookies soft?

Be careful not to overbake. Also, storing them in an airtight container with a slice of bread helps maintain moisture and softness.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Yes, this recipe scales well. Just double all ingredients proportionally and bake in batches, making sure not to crowd the baking sheets.

Final Thoughts

There is truly something magical about this Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe that brings everyone together. From the first bite’s rich chocolate to the festive crunch of colorful sprinkles, it’s a recipe destined to become a cherished holiday tradition. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try it out, share it with loved ones, and let these cookies be a sweet centerpiece for your holiday celebrations.