The Best Christmas Cookie Recipe: A Festive Treat for Everyone
The holidays are just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a batch of warm, delicious Christmas cookies? This recipe isn't just any cookie recipe; it's the best Christmas cookie recipe, guaranteed to impress your friends and family. We've perfected the balance of buttery flavor, chewy texture, and festive cheer. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and create some holiday magic in your kitchen!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields approximately 3 dozen cookies. Adjust accordingly based on your needs.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: The key to a rich and flavorful cookie. Make sure it's truly softened for optimal creaming.
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm and inviting aroma and flavor.
- 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cookies.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and creates a light texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
- 1 cup chocolate chips: The classic addition! Feel free to experiment with other additions like chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or sprinkles.
Instructions: Step-by-Step to Christmas Cookie Perfection
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture. A stand mixer or hand mixer works great here.
Add the wet ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add dry to wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Stir in the chocolate chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
Scoop and bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie.
Bake until golden brown: Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Cool and enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Best Christmas Cookies:
- Chill the dough: For thicker, chewier cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Don't overbake: Overbaked cookies will be dry and crumbly. Start checking them towards the end of the minimum baking time.
- Get creative with decorations: Once cooled, decorate your cookies with frosting, sprinkles, or other festive toppings!
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Beyond the Recipe: Share the Holiday Spirit
This isn't just about baking cookies; it's about creating memories and sharing the joy of the holiday season. Share these delicious cookies with loved ones, participate in cookie exchanges, or simply enjoy them with a warm mug of cocoa. Happy baking!
