Santa’s Whimsical Cookies: Delight in Every Bite
Celebrate the joys of the holiday season with Santa’s Whimsical Cookies! These playfully delicious treats embody the festive spirit, making them perfect for sharing with family and friends. Let us show you why these cookies are a must-bake this season. Don’t forget to subscribe to receive more delightful recipes straight to your inbox!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Santa’s Whimsical Cookies are bursting with classic and playful flavors that everyone will adore. Not only are they easy to make, but they also bring cheer to any festive gathering with their vibrant colors and delightful taste. They’re a hit with kids and adults alike!
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup red and green M&M’s
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans
Necessary Tools
– Mixing bowls
– Electric mixer or whisk
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Baking sheets
– Parchment paper
– Cooling rack
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
For a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or swap them with a crunchy alternative like crushed pretzels. You can also add festive sprinkles or dried cranberries to enhance the holiday spirit!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, and mix in the vanilla extract for that classic taste.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the M&M’s, white chocolate chips, and chopped pecans for a burst of flavor and color.
6. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart, and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of hot cocoa. For festive gatherings, serve them alongside a selection of holiday treats for a joyful buffet.
Pro Tips for Success
Ensure the butter is softened for easier mixing, and avoid overbaking to maintain a soft and chewy center. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can also bring a delightful warmth to the cookies!
Storing and Reheating
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. If they last that long, you can gently reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy a warm treat.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I freeze the dough?
A: Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge before baking.
Q: Can I use dark chocolate chips instead?
A: Absolutely! Dark chocolate chips provide a rich contrast to the sweet M&M’s.
Conclusion
Santa’s Whimsical Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday baking repertoire. Their playful appearance and scrumptious taste make them an irresistible treat for all ages. We would love to see your creations, so feel free to share photos or tag us on Pinterest or Instagram!
Nutritional Information (per cookie)
Approximate values:
– Calories: 130
– Fat: 7g
– Carbohydrates: 18g
– Protein: 2g
