Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the first snowflakes gently fall, I’m reminded of cozy afternoons spent baking in the warmth of my kitchen. That’s when I whip up my Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies—delightfully chewy treats that bring together the magical flavors of white chocolate and refreshing peppermint. These cookies not only add a festive sparkle to any gathering but also offer a quick and satisfying way to share joy with friends and family. Even better, this recipe is customizable, making it easy to cater to various preferences, including gluten-free options! Whether you’re preparing for a holiday get-together or simply treating yourself to some homemade bliss, these cookies are sure to enchant. How do you like to elevate your favorite cookie recipes for the season? Why Are These Cookies a Must-Bake? Irresistible Flavor: The delightful combo of white chocolate and peppermint creates a festive taste that’s perfect for the holidays. Quick & Easy: With simple steps, you can whip up a batch in no time, perfect for last-minute gatherings or cozy nights at home. Customizable Delight: Easily switch up ingredients, like opting for gluten-free flour or adding a dash of cinnamon for a twist that suits your taste. Crowd Pleaser: These cookies are bound to be a hit at any party, just like my Chocolate Chip Cookies! Twinkling Presentation: Decorate with extra crushed peppermint for a beautiful, festive touch that will impress family and friends. Get ready to enjoy a holiday classic that combines flavor, ease, and festive flair! Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients For the Cookie Dough All-Purpose Flour – Structure for the cookie; can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version. Baking Soda – A leavening agent that gives the cookies a light texture. Salt – Enhances the balance of flavors in the dough. Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and tenderness; use vegan butter for a dairy-free option. Brown Sugar – Brings moisture and depth; substitute with less refined sugar or natural sweeteners like honey if desired. Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and texture contrast for the cookies. Egg – Acts as a binding agent to hold the cookie dough together. Vanilla Extract – Boosts the overall flavor of the cookies. For the Chocolate and Mint Dark Chocolate Chips – Adds melty indulgence; they contain antioxidants. Can swap with white chocolate or dairy-free chips for a different flavor. White Chocolate Chips – Gives sweetness and a festive flair to the cookies. Crushed Peppermint Candy – Decorative and refreshing, adding a delightful minty flavor perfect for the season. Optional Add-Ins Optional Oats – For added texture and a wholesome feel to the cookies. Prepare to savor the joy of baking with these Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies, bringing warmth and sweetness to your holiday celebrations! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies bake evenly. While the oven heats up, gather all your ingredients and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, preparing for the delightful process ahead! Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until fully combined. This step helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and enhances the texture of your cookies. Set this mixture aside while you work on the wet ingredients to keep everything organized. Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This creaming process is vital for incorporating air into the dough, which will create a wonderful texture in your Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies. Step 4: Incorporate Egg and Vanilla Add one egg along with the vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugars. Continue mixing on low speed until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This will create a rich base for your dough, enhancing the flavors of the cookies with each sweet bite. Step 5: Combine Mixtures Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture. I recommend adding it in thirds, mixing until just combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies. You want the dough to be soft and slightly sticky, which is perfect for your Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies. Step 6: Add Chocolates and Peppermint Next, gently fold in the dark chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, and crushed peppermint candy using a spatula. This step is where the magic happens—seeing the vibrant peppermint bits and pools of chocolate swirl into the dough will ignite your festive spirit! Step 7: Scoop Cookies Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Be sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking. This spacing will help you achieve that perfect round shape and soft center in your Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies. Step 8: Bake Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set but still soft. The cookies will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven, so keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking. Step 9: Cool Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps them firm up before transferring to a wire rack. After cooling slightly, transfer the cookies to the wire rack to cool completely, letting their magical flavors develop even more. Expert Tips for Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies Perfect Storage: Keep cookies soft by storing them in an airtight container with a slice of bread. This helps maintain their chewy texture longer. Decorative Drizzle: For extra festive flair, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with additional crushed peppermint candy. Freeze Dough: Form leftover cookie dough into balls and freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to prevent tough cookies. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky for ideal results. Customize Flavors: Feel free to play with flavors; a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth, or substitute peppermint with orange zest for a unique twist. Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality chocolate chips and pure vanilla extract to enhance the flavors of your Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies. Make Ahead Options These Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for busy holiday schedules! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix all the ingredients together, scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and refrigerate it. This method helps develop the flavors while keeping the dough fresh. When you’re ready to bake, you can simply preheat your oven and place the chilled cookie dough directly in, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time if needed. For longer storage, you can freeze the scooped dough for up to 3 months—just bake from frozen! By prepping ahead, you’ll savor the joy of freshly baked cookies with minimal last-minute effort. Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations Feel free to explore these fun ideas to customize your Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies, adding delightful twists and flavors that will make each batch unique! Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to ensure everyone can enjoy these treats without compromising on taste. Dairy-Free Delight: Swap out the unsalted butter for vegan butter and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a creamy, guilt-free indulgence. Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a cozy, spiced flavor that perfectly complements the chocolate and peppermint. Nutty Crunch: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch that adds fantastic texture to each bite. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the chocolate. Peppermint Mocha: Infuse your dough with a teaspoon of coffee extract or espresso powder for that delightful coffee-chocolate combination, perfect for coffee lovers. Caramel Swirls: Drizzle some caramel syrup over the cookie dough before baking to add a luscious caramel flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the chocolate and peppermint. Vegan Chocolate Chips: For an entirely plant-based treat, make sure to use vegan chocolate chips, ensuring every chocolate lover can partake in the joy of these cookies. Take your cookie game to new heights, and for even more tempting treats, try your hand at making my scrumptious Bake Chocolate Cheesecake next! Or whip up a refreshing Chocolate Banana Protein Smoothie to complement your sweet cravings! What to Serve with Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies? Indulge in the sweet magic of the season by complementing your cookies with delightful pairings that enhance their festive charm. Peppermint Hot Chocolate: A rich, creamy drink infused with peppermint that echoes the cookie’s flavor for a cozy treat. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cool, it balances the warmth of the cookies; add a scoop on top for a delightful a la mode experience! Salted Caramel Sauce: This luscious sauce drizzled over cookies adds a sweet-salty contrast that elevates every bite. Mulled Wine: A warm, spiced drink that creates a cozy atmosphere and pairs wonderfully with sweet treats, making holiday gatherings extra special. Christmas Fruitcake: Dense and filled with dried fruits and nuts, it perfectly complements the lightness of the cookies for a festive dessert spread. Caramelized Apples: Warm apples with a dash of cinnamon provide a fruity warmth that pairs delightfully with the cookies’ chocolatey goodness. Gather your loved ones, warm up your kitchen, and let these pairings turn your holiday cookie baking into a cozy celebration of flavors! How to Store and Freeze Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, ensuring they stay soft and chewy. Fridge: If you prefer, you can keep them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks; just ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent drying out. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before enjoying, and they’ll taste freshly baked! Reheating: To enjoy cookies warm, microwave for 15-20 seconds. This will revive their delightful softness, enhancing your winter experience! Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs What kind of flour can I use for Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies? You can use all-purpose flour for these festive treats. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend works wonderfully as a substitution without compromising texture or taste. How should I store my Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies? To keep your cookies soft and fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks as long as they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out. Can I freeze the cookie dough or the baked cookies? Absolutely! For freezing the dough, form it into balls and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply bake them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. If you freeze the baked cookies, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months as well. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying. What should I do if my cookies end up too dry or crumbly? If your cookies turn out dry, this could be due to overmixing the dough or not measuring the flour correctly. To salvage, consider adding a tiny bit of milk or melted butter to the dry dough, mixing gently until it comes together. For your next batch, be careful not to overmix after adding the dry ingredients; simply combine them until just moistened. Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies? These Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies can be tailored to various dietary needs! You can easily make them dairy-free by substituting unsalted butter with vegan butter. Additionally, using dark chocolate chips ensures a richer flavor while potentially reducing sugar content. For those with nut allergies, always check your chocolate chips and other mix-ins to ensure they’re free from cross-contamination. How can I enhance the festive flavor of my cookies? To amp up the holiday spirit, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. Also, experimenting with different types of chocolate—like peppermint-flavored—can create a delightful twist. Just remember, the more the merrier when it comes to customizing flavors for those Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies! Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies to Delight Your Holidays Delight in the magical combination of white chocolate and peppermint with these Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsTotal Time 27 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertsCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Dough2 cups All-Purpose Flour can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend1 teaspoon Baking Soda1/2 teaspoon Salt1 cup Unsalted Butter use vegan butter for a dairy-free option3/4 cup Brown Sugar substitute with less refined sugar or natural sweeteners like honey3/4 cup Granulated Sugar1 large Egg1 teaspoon Vanilla ExtractFor the Chocolate and Mint1 cup Dark Chocolate Chips can swap with white chocolate or dairy-free chips1 cup White Chocolate Chips1/2 cup Crushed Peppermint CandyOptional Add-Ins1 cup Optional Oats for added texture Equipment mixing bowlsWhiskelectric mixercookie scoopbaking sheetparchment paper Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and mix until smooth.Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, and crushed peppermint candy.Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown, then cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 60mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 100IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg NotesStore cookies in an airtight container to keep them soft. You can freeze cookie dough for later use. Decorate with melted white chocolate and extra crushed peppermint for added flair. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
