Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

Bring the magic of the holidays into your kitchen with Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies. These soft, chewy cookies combine classic chocolate chip flavors with festive white chocolate and peppermint, creating the perfect treat for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home. The crushed peppermint candies give a refreshing minty twist, while the chocolate chips provide pockets of melty indulgence—making every bite a seasonal delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, chewy texture with a perfect holiday twist.
• Combines classic chocolate chips with white chocolate and peppermint.
• Quick and easy to make for last-minute holiday baking.
• Festive and colorful, perfect for gift boxes or cookie trays.
• Customizable with extra chocolate or peppermint according to taste.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Provides rich flavor and tenderness.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens and balances flavors.
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed – Adds chewiness and depth of flavor.
• 2 large eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor.
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the cookie base.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps cookies rise slightly.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness.
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – Melty pockets of classic chocolate goodness.
• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips – Adds creamy sweetness.
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies – Provides festive crunch and minty flavor.

How to Make Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolates and Peppermint

Gently fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, and crushed peppermint candies.

Step 6: Shape and Bake

Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.

Step 7: Cool

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success

• Do not overmix the dough to maintain soft, chewy cookies.
• Use room-temperature butter and eggs for best texture.
• Gently fold in chocolate chips and peppermint to avoid breaking the candies.
• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or hand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets and parchment paper
• Wire racks for cooling

Recipe Variations

• Extra Chocolate: Add more chocolate chips or chunks for indulgence.
• Mint Lovers: Increase crushed peppermint for a stronger minty flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make the cookies gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a mug of hot cocoa or coffee.
• Serve on festive holiday trays or gift boxes.
• Sprinkle extra crushed peppermint on top for a decorative touch.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days.

Can I freeze the dough or baked cookies?
Yes, cookie dough can be frozen for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen or thaw first. Baked cookies can also be frozen and thawed before serving.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate chips will make the cookies sweeter and creamier.

How do I keep the peppermint from melting?
Add crushed peppermint after cookies are slightly cooled, or gently fold in to avoid excess heat breaking down the candies.

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Conclusion

These Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies are a festive, minty, and chocolatey treat perfect for the holiday season. Soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for cookie trays, gift boxes, or cozy nights at home. Bake a batch, sprinkle on some crushed peppermint, and enjoy a winter wonderland in every bite!