Every time I whip up a batch of Extra Thick Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies, it takes me back to those cozy holiday evenings spent in my grandmother’s warm kitchen. The smell of melting butter and rich chocolate fills the air, wrapping around us like a big, comforting hug. I remember sitting on the counter, my tiny feet dangling as I eagerly awaited the moment the first tray of cookies came out of the oven. It was magic. You might feel it too, the way these cookies bring a sense of joy and nostalgia that truly warms the heart. As we dive into the holiday season together, I want to share this cherished recipe with you, hoping it will become a favorite for you and your family as well.
How to Make Extra Thick Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup, softened |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup, packed |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Large eggs | 2 |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons |
| All-purpose flour | 3 cups |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Chocolate chips | 2 cups |
I always make sure to use unsalted butter for that perfect creamy flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you could use margarine, but I promise, the butter makes all the difference! The chocolate chips are the stars of this show, so don’t skimp on them; choose high-quality chocolate chips for that rich, melty goodness.
Cooking Steps
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Preheat your oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Trust me, this step is vital for getting that perfect cookie texture!
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Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. I love using a hand mixer for this as it makes it easier and quicker!
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Add the eggs: Next, add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl—don’t let any of that good stuff go to waste!
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Mix in the vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract. I always look forward to this step, as the vanilla scent is just heavenly!
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Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
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Gradually mix the dry into the wet: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Don’t rush this part; mixing slowly helps avoid any flour explosions.
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Fold in the chocolate chips: Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed. You should see a sea of chocolate goodness in your dough!
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Scoop the dough: Use a large spoon or ice cream scoop to drop generous spoonfuls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets. Make sure to leave some space between each cookie, as they will spread a little while baking.
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Bake: Pop those trays into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
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Cool on the sheet: Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up a bit.
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Enjoy! Finally, gather those cookies and enjoy them fresh out of the oven. Pair them with a cold glass of milk for an ultimate treat!
Why I Love Making This Dish
What makes these Extra Thick Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies so special to me? Well, it’s the little things! The feel of the dough in my hands, the sound of laughter as my family gathers around the kitchen counter, and the joy of sharing cookies made with love are all part of the experience. Each bite takes me back to those sweet memories with Grandma, and I hope that you, too, can create those moments with your loved ones.
What You’ll Need
To make these cookies, you won’t need any fancy equipment—just your trusty mixing bowls, a baking sheet, and a spatula. I love using a large glass bowl for mixing, as it’s sturdy and easy to handle.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Don’t skip chilling the dough! If it feels a bit too soft, pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps maintain their thick texture while baking.
- If you love nuts, feel free to add about a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra flavor and crunch.
- Want an extra kick? Try sprinkling a little sea salt on top before baking for that sweet-and-salty combo!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
While these cookies are simply divine on their own, I love serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If I’m feeling particularly festive, I might whip up a peppermint hot chocolate to accompany them during the holidays. Trust me, it’s a cozy combo that your family will adore!
Leftovers
You likely won’t have too many leftovers, but if you do, you can store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can freeze them! Just place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw on the counter or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
FAQ Section
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Absolutely! Using all brown sugar gives the cookies a richer, chewier texture. I’ve tried it both ways, and they’re delightful with either.
What if I don’t have chocolate chips?
No worries! You can chop up your favorite chocolate bar or even use candy pieces or dried fruit for a fun twist.
Can I make them smaller?
Of course! Just remember to reduce the baking time. Smaller cookies will bake faster, so keep an eye on them!
Conclusion
I can’t express how much joy these Extra Thick Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies bring to my heart and home. They’ve become a beloved tradition in our family, and I hope they will be for you too! The ease of making them combined with that amazing aroma wafting through your kitchen will undoubtedly make this recipe a favorite. I can’t wait for you to try it! You’ll feel the warmth and love in every single bite. Please let me know how they turn out for you—my family always asks for seconds, and I’m confident yours will too! Happy baking, my dear friends!