Imagine a snow-covered kitchen filled with the smell of warm vanilla, melted chocolate, and a hint of peppermint. These Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies are everything you want in a holiday treat: festive, buttery, and incredibly delicious. They’re soft in the center with perfectly crisped edges, and every bite delivers just the right balance of chocolate chunks and seasonal spice.

Whether you’re baking for a cookie exchange, hosting a holiday movie night, or simply need something magical with your hot cocoa, these cookies are your new go-to. The dough comes together quickly, and the sparkly sugar coating gives each cookie a frosted snow-kissed appearance, worthy of a Hallmark movie.

You’ll love how effortlessly charming these cookies are. With no chilling required, you can go from mixing bowl to baking tray in under 15 minutes. They’re visually stunning with snowy sugar crystals and feel extra cozy thanks to a touch of cinnamon. Plus, they’re the type of cookie that brings out joyful “mmms” from adults and kids alike.

What Kind of Chocolate Should I Use for Christmas Cookies?

For this recipe, semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks work best. They melt beautifully without making the cookies too sweet. If you’re feeling extra festive, mix in some white chocolate chips or crushed peppermint bark. The contrast between creamy chocolate and the cool mint is pure holiday bliss.

Ingredients for the Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies

This recipe balances classic cookie elements with seasonal flair. Each ingredient serves a purpose, from structure to flavor to texture.

Unsalted Butter – The base of our dough, giving richness and that irresistible melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Brown Sugar – Adds depth and a subtle molasses flavor for a chewy center.
White Sugar – Helps with spreading and gives the cookie a crisp edge.
Egg – Binds the dough and contributes to the soft texture.
Vanilla Extract – Essential for warm, aromatic notes.
All-Purpose Flour – The structure behind every perfect bite.
Baking Soda – Gives the cookies their gentle lift.
Salt – Enhances and balances sweetness.
Cinnamon – Just a pinch brings warmth and holiday nostalgia.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Melty and rich, these are the stars of the show.
Decorative Sugar – For that frosty sparkle and light crunch.

Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies 2

How To Make the Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the brown and white sugars until creamy and fluffy.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, combining thoroughly.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add this to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.

Step 4: Fold in the Chocolate

Gently mix in the chocolate chips or chunks until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Scoop and Sparkle

Scoop dough into balls and roll in decorative sugar. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment, about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 9-11 minutes or until the edges are golden but the centers still soft. Cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Storing and Serving Winter Wonderland Cookies

These cookies make about 24 medium-sized treats, perfect for sharing. Serve them warm for gooey chocolate bites or store in an airtight container for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies or the dough itself and thaw before serving or baking.

What to Serve With Winter Wonderland Cookies?

Hot Cocoa With Whipped Cream

Pair these cookies with a mug of cocoa topped with a mountain of whipped cream and crushed peppermint.

Eggnog

The creamy spiced flavor of eggnog is a perfect companion.

Spiced Tea

Try a cinnamon or chai blend to enhance the cookie’s warm notes.

Mulled Wine

For a more grown-up gathering, mulled wine adds a festive, cozy touch.

Peppermint Ice Cream

Serve cookies on the side for a hot-and-cold dessert combo.

Fruit and Cheese Platter

The sweetness of cookies pairs well with creamy brie and fresh berries.

Vanilla Yogurt Parfait

Layer with cookies for a crunchy and creamy breakfast-inspired dessert.

If you love these Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies, you’ll definitely want to try these sweet favorites next:

Save This Recipe 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 add peppermint? Swap in white chocolate? Did you double the batch like I always end up doing?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and creative bakes on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next crave-worthy delight!

Conclusion

Winter Wonderland Chocolate Chip Christmas Cookies are more than just festive treats; they bring warmth and sparkle to any moment. Whether you bake them for a holiday party or to nibble in front of the fireplace, they’ll instantly become part of your Christmas baking tradition.