Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

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Nothing brings the holiday spirit to life like the smell of warm cookies drifting from the kitchen. These Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies are soft, thick, and packed with both semi-sweet and white chocolate chips. Finished with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint and sparkly sugar, each bite feels like a festive celebration.

Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in, a holiday party, or to share with neighbors in festive tins, this recipe will become your new seasonal favorite. These cookies combine classic chocolate chip goodness with a merry twist.

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Why You’ll Love This Winter Wonderland Cookie Recipe

These cookies check every box: gooey chocolate, crunchy edges, soft centers, and a sprinkle of winter magic. The white chocolate adds creaminess, while peppermint brings that nostalgic winter freshness. They are easy to make and perfect for gifting or holiday dessert platters.

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Can I Use Peppermint Extract Instead of Crushed Candy?

You can, but proceed with caution. Crushed peppermint candies add both texture and color to these cookies, making them visually festive. Peppermint extract can be very strong, so if you use it, reduce the quantity to 1/4 tsp and skip the candy topping to avoid overpowering the flavor.

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Ingredients for the Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in achieving the perfect texture and taste.

• All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): Provides structure and chewiness.
• Baking soda (1/2 tsp): Helps the cookies rise slightly and brown beautifully.
• Salt (1/2 tsp): Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Adds richness and moisture.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Creates that crisp edge.
• Brown sugar (3/4 cup, packed): Gives softness and caramel undertones.
• Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients and add moisture.
• Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Adds warmth and depth.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Melty pools of classic chocolate.
• White chocolate chips (1/2 cup): Creamy contrast to dark chips.
• Crushed peppermint candies (1/4 cup): Adds festive crunch and flavor.
• Sparkling sanding sugar (2 tbsp): Gives a glittery, snow-like finish.

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How To Make the Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1/2 tsp salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup softened unsalted butter with 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 3/4 cup packed brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in 2 tsp vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix.

Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate

Fold in 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1/2 cup white chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough.

Step 7: Scoop and Decorate

Using a cookie scoop, place dough balls 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. Lightly press a few extra chocolate chips on top of each dough ball. Sprinkle each cookie with crushed peppermint (1/4 cup total across all cookies) and a touch of sanding sugar (2 tbsp total).

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and centers are just set. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

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How to Store and Serve Winter Wonderland Cookies

This recipe yields 24 cookies, perfect for sharing. They stay soft for days if stored in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months or freeze dough balls to bake fresh later.

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What to Serve With Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Hot Chocolate

Creamy hot chocolate topped with whipped cream pairs perfectly with these cookies.

Peppermint Mocha

Bring out the peppermint in the cookies with a festive holiday drink.

Eggnog

Sweet and spiced, it complements the creamy white chocolate in every bite.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Serve a cookie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a winter dessert that melts hearts.

Coffee

A classic pairing that balances the sweetness with a touch of bitterness.

Fruit Tart

Bright and fresh, a great contrast on dessert platters.

Cheese Board

Add a couple cookies to a cheese board for an unexpected sweet surprise.

Related: Check out these delicious Lemon Cupcakes

Try these Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Bouquet treats

Explore our Cream Cheese Jam Pinwheel Cookies

Love easy desserts? You’ll enjoy our Tiramisu Cups too

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While you can substitute margarine, the flavor and texture will differ. Butter adds richness and a better chew.

How do I crush peppermint candies?

Place them in a ziplock bag and crush gently with a rolling pin or use a food processor for finer pieces.

Can I freeze this dough?

Absolutely. Scoop dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to bake time.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

Too much butter or not enough flour can cause spreading. Also, make sure your dough is not too warm when baking.

Are these cookies spicy?

No. They have a refreshing peppermint crunch, but they aren’t spicy or overly minty.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try crushed candy canes or stick with classic peppermint discs? Did you drizzle chocolate on top? I’d love to hear how you made these cookies your own.

Check out more seasonal inspiration and daily recipes on my Pinterest: Meals We Share.

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Conclusion

Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies are the kind of holiday treat that brings everyone together. Simple to make, magical to eat, and beautiful to share. Whether for a cookie exchange, a cozy evening by the fire, or as a sweet gift, they never disappoint.

With their dreamy texture and festive topping, they might just become your signature holiday cookie. Happy baking!

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