Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies

I love baking when the snow starts falling because everything outside feels soft and still while my kitchen fills with warmth and the smell of butter and sugar. Winter wonderland chocolate chip cookies always remind me of the first time my niece visited during the holidays and we spent the afternoon baking and laughing in fuzzy socks and festive pajamas.

Because we didn’t want anything complicated yet still wanted something that screamed “holiday magic,” we kept it simple with a classic chocolate chip cookie recipe but added a light dusting of powdered sugar. It looked like snow had landed right on top of the cookies and that moment turned into a tradition I look forward to every single year.

Ingredients :

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• All-purpose flour – This gives the cookies their structure and helps them hold together
• Baking soda – Essential for helping the cookies rise and get that soft center
• Salt – A pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor
• Unsalted butter – Adds richness and creates that melt-in-your-mouth texture
• Brown sugar – Gives the cookies a chewy texture and deep caramel-like sweetness
• Granulated sugar – Helps the cookies spread and adds sweetness
• Eggs – Bind everything together while adding moisture
• Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a cozy, sweet aroma
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips – The star of the show, adding melty, gooey chocolate in every bite
• Powdered sugar – For dusting, it creates that magical snowy finish

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls – For combining dry and wet ingredients separately
• Hand mixer or stand mixer – Helps cream the butter and sugars smoothly
• Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures all ingredients are added in the right amount
• Baking sheet – Where the cookies will bake evenly
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy
• Cooling rack – Allows the cookies to cool evenly without becoming soggy
• Small sifter – For lightly dusting powdered sugar on top

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

I start by preheating my oven to 350°F so it’s ready by the time the dough is set.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This way, the rising agent and salt get evenly distributed.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Using my mixer, I beat the softened butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. It usually takes about 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, I beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. I make sure everything is well combined before moving on.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

I slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low until the dough just comes together. I try not to overmix so the cookies stay tender.

Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate Chips

Then, I stir in the chocolate chips by hand. I like to reserve a few to press on top of each dough ball for that pretty bakery look.

Step 7: Scoop and Bake

I use a cookie scoop to drop balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. I bake them for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look a little soft.

Step 8: Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar

After removing them from the oven, I let the cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once they’re fully cool, I dust them gently with powdered sugar using a small sifter.

Tips

If I want extra festive flair, I sometimes mix in white chocolate chips or crushed peppermint candies

For thicker cookies, I chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking

I always make sure the butter is softened, not melted it makes a big difference in texture

Ways to Serve

Serve these cookies with a warm mug of hot cocoa or spiced chai

Stack a few in a clear bag tied with a ribbon for a sweet homemade holiday gift

Crumble them over vanilla ice cream for a dreamy winter dessert

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I store Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies?

I store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. The powdered sugar may melt slightly over time but the cookies still taste great!

Can I freeze Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Yes! I freeze the dough balls and bake them fresh whenever I need a quick treat. You can also freeze baked cookies and thaw them as needed.

Do Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies work with gluten-free flour?

Absolutely I’ve used a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour and they turned out just as soft and chewy!

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give these Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies a try! They’re soft, chocolatey, and topped with that magical dusting of sweetness a true winter treat that brings joy to every bite. I’d love to see how yours turn out so don’t forget to share your version with me!

Happy Cooking!

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