Name: Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 1 h 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup brown sugar (packed); ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; ¾ cup red, green, and white candy-coated chocolates or pearls; 2 tablespoons sparkling sugar or flaky sea salt (optional for topping)

Is there anything more magical than biting into a soft, chewy chocolate chip cookie that’s been dressed up for the holidays? Our Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies bring that festive sparkle to your dessert table with the perfect balance of classic cookie flavor and holiday cheer. Think of buttery dough packed with chocolate morsels, finished with a joyful medley of red, green, and white candy pearls and a dusting of sugar snow—pure winter bliss in every bite.

Whether you’re baking these for a cookie exchange, a cozy snow day at home, or as a sweet treat for Santa, these cookies never fail to impress. They’re easy enough for beginner bakers but have enough visual wow-factor to stand out on any dessert spread. And the best part? You can make the dough ahead and freeze it—ideal for when you want fresh-baked cookies on demand.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before we dive into the cookie magic, gather your kitchen essentials:

Mixing Bowls (large and medium): A must for combining dry and wet ingredients separately to maintain texture.
Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Helps cream butter and sugar until fluffy—critical for that soft cookie base.
Silicone Spatula: Perfect for folding in chocolate chips and scraping down bowl sides efficiently.
Cookie Scoop: Ensures uniform cookie size for even baking.
Baking Sheet with Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat: Prevents sticking and promotes even browning.
Cooling Rack: Keeps cookies from getting soggy by allowing air to circulate after baking.

Each tool plays a part in nailing the texture and appearance of these festive cookies. Proper prep sets the stage for cookie perfection.

Ingredients for the Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and a tender crumb. Room temperature butter is key for creaming with sugar.
Brown Sugar: Adds deep caramel flavor and extra chewiness.
Granulated Sugar: Balances the sweetness and helps the cookies spread.
Eggs: Bind everything together and add moisture.
Vanilla Extract: Elevates the flavor profile with a warm, aromatic note.
All-Purpose Flour: The structural backbone of the cookies.
Baking Soda: The leavening agent that helps the cookies rise just right.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Bring the classic gooey chocolate bursts in every bite.
Red, Green, and White Candy-Coated Chocolates or Pearls: Adds holiday color and crunch.
Sparkling Sugar or Flaky Sea Salt (optional): For that winter snow-dusted finish or a pop of flavor.

How To Make the Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using a mixer until light and fluffy. This takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution before adding to the wet mix.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix. Fold in the chocolate chips and half of the holiday candy.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape and intensifies the flavor.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment. Use a cookie scoop to portion dough, spacing evenly. Top with the remaining candy pieces.

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden and centers are still soft.

Step 7: Cool and Decorate

Let cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Sprinkle with sparkling sugar or flaky salt while warm if desired.

Serving and Storing These Winter Wonderland Treats

Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies are best enjoyed slightly warm, when the chocolate chips are still soft and melty. They make a perfect addition to hot cocoa bars, cookie platters, or wrapped in festive bags as homemade gifts. Pair with peppermint tea or a frothy latte for cozy indulgence.

To store, keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to 10 days or freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months. You can also freeze the dough pre-scooped—just add a minute or two to the baking time when ready to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep my cookies soft after baking?

Seal them in an airtight container with a slice of bread. The cookies absorb moisture from the bread and stay soft longer.

Can I use different chocolate chips?

Yes! Milk, dark, or even white chocolate chips work. You can also try a combo for a layered chocolate profile.

What if I don’t have colored candy pearls?

Use regular M&M’s, holiday sprinkles, or omit them altogether. The cookies are still deliciously festive with just chocolate chips.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use a good quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Yes, it’s highly recommended. Chilling helps control spread and creates a thicker, chewier cookie.

Can I double the batch?

Definitely. These freeze well and make great gifts, so doubling the recipe is a smart move for holiday prep.

If these Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies put you in the holiday spirit, you’re in for a treat with more festive bakes.

You might also enjoy the Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies for a nutty, satisfying option that pairs beautifully with chocolate.

Or brighten up your dessert table with No Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies—easy, light, and utterly delightful.

For something a bit richer, consider the Decadent Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes with a gooey marshmallow center.

If you’re all about visual wow-factor, the Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes are a must-try. And don’t overlook the Irresistible Blueberry Lime Cheesecake Cupcakes that blend tangy fruit with creamy richness.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your dessert boards for the season. Just click the Pin button and keep the magic handy.

If you bake these, I’d truly love to hear about it. Did you switch up the candy toppings? Did the sparkle sugar win hearts? Drop a comment and let me know how your batch turned out.

For more cozy creations and festive ideas, follow me on Pinterest at LadyPlate on Pinterest. I share my daily recipes and seasonal inspiration there!