Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Cookies are the epitome of cozy holiday baking. Soft, chewy, and loaded with chocolate chips, they bring a touch of magic to the kitchen. Dusted with powdered sugar or decorated with festive sprinkles, these cookies capture the spirit of winter and are perfect for gifting, cookie exchanges, or enjoying by the fire with a warm drink.

The combination of brown and white sugar gives them that perfect chewy texture, while chocolate chips melt into pockets of sweet delight. These cookies aren’t just a treat—they’re a holiday experience, evoking nostalgia, warmth, and the joy of sharing with family and friends.

Why These Cookies Stand Out

Chewy texture: Achieved by a perfect balance of sugars and butter.
Holiday presentation: Powdered sugar or sprinkles create a “snow-dusted” effect.
Versatile flavors: Chocolate chips, white chocolate, or festive add-ins.
Easy to bake: No special equipment or techniques needed.

Tips for Perfect Holiday Cookies

Use room-temperature butter – for creamier batter.
Don’t overmix once flour is added – maintains softness.
Chill the dough – optional but gives thicker cookies.
Use high-quality chocolate chips – better melt and flavor.
Watch the oven – slightly underbaked cookies remain chewy.

Ingredients

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Optional: 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
Powdered sugar or festive sprinkles for decoration

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt together.
In a large bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla, mixing well.
Gradually add dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Fold in chocolate chips (and white chocolate if using).
Scoop dough onto baking sheets using a cookie scoop, spacing about 2 inches apart.
Bake 9–11 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.
Cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.
Dust with powdered sugar or decorate with sprinkles before serving.

Creative Variations

Peppermint Twist: Add crushed candy canes for a holiday flavor.
White Chocolate & Cranberry: Swap half of chocolate chips with white chocolate and dried cranberries.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans.
Frosted Cookies: Pipe vanilla or cream cheese frosting for a fun winter design.

Serving & Storage Tips

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freeze unbaked dough for up to 2 months; bake directly from frozen.
Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature.