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These Classic Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies are a festive treat that bring warmth and joy to holiday gatherings. Bursting with melty chocolate chips and the cheerful pop of red and green M&M’s, they make every bite feel like a celebration.
I remember baking these cookies with my family one Christmas evening, the kitchen filled with laughter and the sweet scent of vanilla and chocolate. They instantly became the beloved treat everyone looks forward to.
Ingredients You Need
- All-purpose flour: provides structure choose unbleached for best texture
- Baking soda: helps cookies rise lightly for that perfect chew
- Salt: enhances sweetness and balances flavor opt for fine sea salt for even mixing
- Unsalted butter: lends rich creaminess room temperature is key for smooth creaming
- Granulated sugar and brown sugar: bring sweetness and moisture brown sugar adds a lovely caramel note
- Vanilla extract: infuses warmth and depth use pure extract for best taste
- Large eggs: bind the dough together and add tenderness
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: deliver melty pockets of chocolate goodness
- Red and green M&M’s: offer festive color and a crunchy surprise optional but strongly encouraged
Detailed Cooking Directions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfectly baked bottoms.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour baking soda and salt in a medium bowl. This ensures the leavening and seasoning are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Cream Butter and Sugars:
- In a large bowl cream the softened unsalted butter with granulated and brown sugars along with vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and light. This step builds the cookies’ soft texture.
- Incorporate Eggs and Dry Mix:
- Add eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture beating well after each addition to create a cohesive batter. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just combined for the ideal dough consistency.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips and M&M’s:
- Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and red and green M&M’s. This step guarantees every cookie will be studded with festive candies and chocolate.
- Scoop and Bake:
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets spaced two inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake for nine to eleven minutes until the edges are golden but the centers remain soft and inviting.
- Cool and Enjoy:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for several minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This keeps their perfect texture intact.
I love adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for a subtle warming flavor that reminds me of cozy winter evenings by the fire. Baking these cookies always feels like wrapping my hands around holiday happiness.
Smart Storage Tips
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to retain softness for up to five days
Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking and preserve decorating details
Freeze baked cookies for longer storage and thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy
Ingredient Variations
Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for white or dark chocolate chips to change up the flavor
Try adding chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and richness
Use holiday-themed candies beyond M&M’s like crushed peppermint or mini candy canes for seasonal twists
Perfect Pairing Ideas
Pair with a glass of cold milk or warm eggnog for a classic holiday match
Serve alongside coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy afternoon treat
Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream to make a festive dessert sandwich
Baking these cookies brings out the magic of the holiday season in the most delicious way. Every batch feels like a warm hug, a reminder of the simple joys and joyful moments shared around the kitchen counter.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What is the best way to make cookies softer?
Slightly underbaking cookies results in a softer texture, as it retains moisture and prevents over-crisping on the edges.
- → Can I substitute ingredients in this cookie mix?
Yes, you can swap semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark, milk, or white chocolate, and add nuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- → How should I store these cookies to keep them fresh?
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness for up to five days.
- → Why is parchment paper recommended for baking?
Parchment paper prevents sticking and promotes even baking by ensuring the cookie bottoms don’t burn or brown too quickly.
- → What role does vanilla extract play in the dough?
Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor by adding a subtle, sweet aroma that complements the chocolate and buttery notes.