Introduction
There’s something magical about the holidays, and these Christmas Crack Cookies embody that festive spirit! With their rich buttery flavor and delightful crunch, each bite is a celebration of sweetness. Imagine warm, freshly baked cookies with a golden edge, dotted with melty chocolate chips and a hint of sea salt to elevate every nibble. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or as a sweet addition to your holiday dessert table, these cookies are sure to become a cherished recipe in your festive repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- Sea salt for sprinkling
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a scrumptious aroma.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract for that warm, inviting flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined to keep those cookies tender and delicious.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts if you’re using them, creating an irresistible, cookie dough with delightful bursts of flavor.
- Using a spoon, drop generous spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Before baking, sprinkle a touch of sea salt on top of each cookie — this little step makes a world of difference!
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden, filling your home with holiday cheer.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For added flavor, consider substituting half of the chocolate chips with white chocolate or peanut butter chips. Nuts are optional, but they add a wonderful crunch and richness. Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; the perfect cookie is golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center!
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy—this step incorporates air into your dough, which helps the cookies rise and become tender. Also, allowing the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a rack prevents them from breaking. Patience is key!
FAQ
Can I freeze these cookies? Absolutely! Once cooled, place them in an airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag, and they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!
How do I store the cookies? Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They’ll stay soft and delicious — if they last that long!
Conclusion
These Christmas Crack Cookies are the perfect treat to bring holiday joy into your kitchen. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering or just indulging in a sweet moment at home, these cookies are sure to please. Enjoy the process and the delightful scents that waft through your space, and remember, the best part about baking is sharing the delicious results with those you love. Happy baking!