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Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe: Easy Homemade Winter Party Treats

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These cozy homemade chocolate chip cookies are soft, chewy, and loaded with melty chocolate—perfect for winter parties, potlucks, or gifting. Quick to make and endlessly customizable, they’re a nostalgic treat that brings comfort and joy to any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips or chunks (optional)
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries (optional)
  • Flaky sea salt for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, beat softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in eggs, one at a time, scraping down the bowl after each addition. Add vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
  5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.
  6. Fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips, dark chocolate chips or chunks, and any optional nuts or cranberries.
  7. For extra thick cookies, cover dough and chill for 30 minutes (optional).
  8. Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop dough balls (about 2 tablespoons each) onto prepared sheets, spacing 2 inches apart.
  9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are golden but centers are still soft.
  10. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to finish cooling.
  11. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired. Serve warm or cool completely for gifting and storage.

Notes

Chilling the dough is optional but helps prevent spreading and creates a chewier texture. For gluten-free or vegan adaptations, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, dairy-free butter, and flaxseed eggs. Mix-ins like nuts, cranberries, or white chocolate chips add festive flair. Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: chocolate chip cookies, winter party treats, homemade cookies, easy dessert, holiday baking, chewy cookies, classic cookies, potluck recipes

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/chocolate-chip-cookies-recipe-easy-homemade-winter-party-treats/