The aroma of baking cookies can instantly transform a home into a cozy haven, especially during the holiday season. These Festive Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies with M&Ms are my go-to for cranking up that warm, cheerful feeling! With each bite, you’ll experience the delightful combo of chewy chocolate goodness and colorful sprinkles that put everyone in a celebratory mood. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for last-minute holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. Plus, they come together in a snap, making them an easy baking choice, even for those busy moments! Are you ready to spread some festive joy?
Why are these cookies a holiday favorite?
**Irresistible *chewy texture*: Each bite offers a delightful softness complemented by rich chocolate chunks.
**Festive colorful additions: M&Ms and sprinkles make these cookies visually appealing, perfect for holiday celebrations.
**Quick *and easy*: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these treats in no time.
*Crowd-pleaser*: They never fail to charm guests at gatherings, making them ideal for sharing with family and friends.
**Versatile and fun: Feel free to vary the mix-ins, swaping chocolates or adding crushed candy canes for a unique twist! Enjoy these Pistachio White Chocolate cookies or try out the Chocolate Cheesecake for a delicious variation!
Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookie Ingredients
• Ready to bake the most festive cookies? Here’s what you’ll need!
For the Batter
- All-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the cookies. Ensure it’s leveled for accuracy.
- Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent for a light texture. Check expiration for effectiveness.
- Salt – Enhances flavor. Use fine salt for even distribution.
- Unsalted butter – Adds moisture and richness. Must be at room temperature, not melted.
- Light brown sugar – Contributes sweetness and moisture for chewiness. Packed firmly for correct measurement.
- Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with texture. Adjust for a sweeter cookie if desired.
- Large egg – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture. Ensure it’s at room temperature.
- Vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor. Pure vanilla is preferred for best taste.
For the Mix-ins
- Semisweet chocolate chips – Provide rich chocolate flavor. Guittard or similar high-quality chips recommended.
- White chocolate chips – Contrast in flavor and color. Can substitute with more semisweet or dark chocolate.
- M&Ms (red and green) – Decorative and sweet additions. Use seasonal colors for festive flair.
- Sprinkles – For a festive touch. Choose colors that match the holiday theme.
With these Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookie ingredients ready to go, let’s dive into the joyful process of baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Festive Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies with M&Ms
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your ingredients. This ensures that the cookies bake evenly. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper, which will prevent sticking and provide a perfectly baked surface for your festive Christmas chocolate chip cookies.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This step not only removes lumps but also aerates the flour, giving your cookies a lighter texture. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients for your cookie batter.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 1 cup of room-temperature unsalted butter, 3/4 cup of light brown sugar, and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. The sugar should be fully incorporated, giving your Christmas chocolate chip cookies a rich, buttery base.
Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add in 1 large room-temperature egg and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Continue mixing on low speed until both ingredients are well combined. This addition will provide moisture and enhance the overall flavor, making every bite of your festive Christmas cookies irresistibly delicious.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a thick, slightly sticky dough to ensure your cookies maintain a soft, chewy texture. At this point, your festive Christmas chocolate chip cookie batter is nearly complete!
Step 6: Fold in the Mix-Ins
Gently fold in 1 cup each of semisweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, and the festive red and green M&Ms using a spatula. Also, add a handful of sprinkles for an extra holiday flair. The vibrant colors will not only enhance the cookie’s visual appeal but also add delightful bursts of flavor.
Step 7: Portion the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart (6-8 cookies per pan). The dough should hold its shape, creating those lovely thick cookies that are the hallmark of festive Christmas chocolate chip cookies.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-13 minutes. The edges should be lightly browned, while the centers will look slightly underbaked. This ensures a soft, chewy texture reminiscent of the best Christmas chocolate chip cookies you’ve ever tasted.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
After baking, let the cookies cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This cooling period allows the cookies to firm up while maintaining their delightful gooeyness in the center, making them the perfect treat to share during the holidays.
What to Serve with Festive Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies with M&Ms
The aroma of sweet, warm cookies fills the air, inviting the whole family to gather around and enjoy a delightful meal together.
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Creamy Hot Chocolate: A classic pairing that balances the sweetness of the cookies and warms your heart on chilly nights. Treat yourself to a generous helping of whipped cream on top for an extra touch of indulgence!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoop a generous ball on the side to contrast the chewy texture of the cookies. The temperature difference creates a deliciously satisfying experience with every bite!
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Milk: The ultimate childhood favorite, a glass of cold milk enhances the rich chocolate flavors and perfectly softens each cookie bite. This timeless duo will have everyone feeling nostalgic!
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Fruit Medley Salad: A refreshing burst of seasonal fruits provides a natural sweetness while cutting through the richness of the cookies. Think of combining zesty oranges, sweet berries, and juicy apples for a colorful presentation.
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Festive Cheesecake Bars: For a more indulgent dessert, slice up some creamy cheesecake bars topped with cranberry or chocolate drizzles. The tanginess of the cheesecake balances beautifully against the sweetness of the festive Christmas chocolate chip cookies.
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Peppermint Tea: A soothing beverage that wraps you in warmth, aromatic peppermint tea can cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing the flavors of the cookies.
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Holiday Punch: A vibrant mix of cranberry juice, orange juice, and sparkling water adds a fun, festive touch to your cookie spread. Garnish with fresh mint or citrus slices for an eye-catching holiday drink.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle some rich chocolate sauce over your warm cookies or use it as a dipping accompaniment to elevate indulgence to the next level. It’s a treat that chocolate lovers will adore!
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Caramel Sauce: Combining gooey caramel sauce with the cookies creates an irresistible sweetness that will have everyone diving back for seconds. Enjoy this decadent addition as a dip or drizzle.
Tips for the Best Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Butter Temperature: Always use room-temperature butter, not melted, to keep cookies thick and chewy.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined to prevent tough cookies. A thick yet slightly sticky dough is perfect for Christmas chocolate chip cookies.
- Chilling Dough: Chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes if your kitchen is warm, so the cookies don’t spread too much while baking.
- Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on your cookies and pull them out when the edges are golden but centers look slightly underbaked for that ideal gooey texture.
- Storage Tip: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, or freeze them to preserve freshness for up to 2 months.
Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations
Feel free to mix things up and tailor these delightful cookies to your taste buds. Let your creativity run wild in the kitchen!
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Milk Chocolate: Swap semisweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate for a sweeter, creamier taste.
Try using a combination of both for a chocolate-lover’s dream! -
Minty Twist: Add crushed candy canes for a refreshing minty flavor that shouts holiday cheer.
Not only do they taste fantastic, but they also add a beautiful pop of color. -
Nutty Delight: Substitute M&Ms with chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchier texture.
This alteration brings warmth and depth to your festive cookie mix! -
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil and dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan-friendly option.
These cookies will still pack the same chewy goodness while being kind to those with dietary restrictions. -
Fruit & Nut: Incorporate dried cranberries or chopped figs for a fruity twist alongside the chocolate.
The sweet and tart contrast is a delightful surprise in every bite! -
Spiced Up: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor that makes them even more festive.
The aromatic spices will elevate your classic chocolate chip cookies into a holiday favorite. -
Decorate: Top each cookie with extra chocolate drizzles or edible glitter for an eye-catching finish.
This delightful presentation makes them perfect for holiday parties or as gifts!
For more delicious variations, you might want to explore these scrumptious recipes like Pistachio White Chocolate cookies or indulge with a decadent Chocolate Cheesecake. Happy baking!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them soft and fresh, perfect for enjoying with family.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate the cookies for up to 5 days in a sealed container. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: You can freeze your Christmas chocolate chip cookies for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in a sealed freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy your cookies warm, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5 minutes, or until heated through. This will revive their soft, chewy goodness!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all your ingredients and chilling the dough in the refrigerator. This prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking, ensuring that they’ll be just as delicious when you bake them. You can also scoop the dough onto baking sheets, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven and bake the cookies straight from the fridge, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, busy weeknights can be filled with freshly baked cookies without the hassle!
Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right chocolate chips for my cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for high-quality semisweet chocolate chips like Guittard or Ghirardelli. These brands melt beautifully and create delightful pockets of chocolate in your cookies. You could even mix in some white chocolate chips for contrast, but be sure they’re from a trusted brand to ensure maximum melting!
What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Very! Store your Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to keep them soft and fresh. If you want to prolong their life, you can refrigerate them for about 5 days, just ensure they’re sealed well.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Definitely! To freeze your cookies, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them in a sealed freezer bag. This will help prevent freezer burn. You can freeze them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, and they’ll taste fresh-baked!
What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Oh, the more the merrier—don’t worry! If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to melted butter; make sure it’s just at room temperature next time. Additionally, chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes can prevent spreading, particularly on warm days. If you’ve already baked them, consider making cookie bars instead—just press the dough into a baking pan!
Are these cookies safe for my pets?
Not at all! Chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats, so definitely keep these festive Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies away from your furry friends. If you’re looking for a treat to share with them, consider making peanut butter or pumpkin-based dog cookies instead. They’ll love the special treat, and it’s safe for them too!
Irresistibly Chewy Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies to Share
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, ensuring a thick dough.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, M&Ms, and sprinkles gently with a spatula.
- Drop rounded mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-13 minutes, until the edges are lightly browned but the centers look slightly underbaked.
- Let the cookies cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
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