Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles

Every holiday season, I find myself drawn into the kitchen, the scent of fresh-baked cookies filling the air. This year, I couldn’t resist creating a batch of Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles. The idea of these soft, cinnamon-sugar coated treats brings back memories of cozy family gatherings and laughter shared over warm cookies and cold milk. There’s something magical about the combination of flavors and textures—each bite a delightful blend of chewy sweetness and a hint of spice. It’s a tradition I cherish, and I can’t wait to share this recipe with you.

What You Need for Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles

When it comes to baking, the right ingredients make all the difference. Each component in this recipe plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture in your Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles. From the butter that brings richness to the cinnamon that provides warmth, these ingredients come together beautifully.

• 2 sticks (1 cup) salted butter, at room temperature: The key to achieving that perfect chewy texture.
• 3/4 cup light or dark brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deep, rich flavor.
• 2 large eggs, plus 1 egg yolk: Provides structure and richness to the cookies.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base of our cookies, ensuring they hold their shape.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• 1 1/4 cups holiday M&M’s: Adds festive color and a sweet crunch.
• 1 cup mini pretzel sticks (crushed): Introduces a delightful salty crunch.
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: For that irresistible chocolatey goodness.
• 1/3 cup dark chocolate chunks: Intensifies the chocolate flavor.
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Used for rolling the cookie dough for that signature cinnamon-sugar crust.
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon: The spice that ties everything together.

Recipe Steps for Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles

Making Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles is a joyous experience that’s perfect for all skill levels. With each step, the anticipation builds, knowing that soon you’ll have a delightful batch of cookies ready to devour. Let’s dive into the process!

1. Begin by adding 1 stick of butter into a skillet set over medium heat. Watch closely as it melts and begins to brown, creating a nutty aroma. This should take about 3 to 4 minutes. Once browned, remove it from the heat and transfer it to a heatproof bowl, allowing it to cool. To speed up the process, you can pop it in the freezer for 10 to 15 minutes—just be careful not to let it freeze solid.
2. While the browned butter is cooling, preheat your oven to 350° F. This ensures that when it’s time to bake, your cookies will have the perfect rise and crispness. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3. In a mixing bowl, beat together the remaining stick of butter with the cooled browned butter and brown sugar until they’re well combined and creamy. This mixture should be light and fluffy, indicating that it’s well aerated. Next, add in the eggs and egg yolk, one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated. The mixture should look smooth and shiny.
4. Now, carefully mix in the vanilla extract. This will enhance the sweetness of your cookies. Next, sift in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and kosher salt, gently folding them into your mixture. Avoid over-mixing—just until everything is combined.
5. It’s time to fold in the fun! Add in the M&M’s, crushed mini pretzel sticks, chocolate chips, and dark chocolate chunks. This is where the cookies get their unique texture and flavor. Stir gently to ensure even distribution, but don’t overwork the dough.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon. This will be used to coat the cookie dough balls. Using your hands or a cookie scoop, roll the dough into rounded balls about 2 to 3 tablespoons in size.
7. Roll each ball through the cinnamon-sugar mixture, coating them generously. This step will give your cookies that classic snickerdoodle flavor. Place the rolled balls on your prepared baking sheet, leaving about 3 inches of space between each.
8. Once your oven is preheated, bake the cookies for about 8 minutes. After that time, rotate the pan and gently push the remaining M&M’s into the tops of the cookies. Return to the oven to bake for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until they’re golden brown around the edges.
9. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. They will continue to cook slightly as they sit, achieving a perfect chewy texture.
10. Enjoy your Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles warm from the oven or let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Recipe Notes about Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles

As you embark on your baking journey, keep these helpful tips in mind to ensure your Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles turn out perfectly every time:

• Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to four days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cookie dough balls before baking. Just roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, then freeze. When you’re ready to bake, pop them right into the oven without thawing.
• Pairing: These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea. They also make a great addition to a holiday cookie platter.
• Variation: For a twist, try using flavored chips such as pumpkin spice or butterscotch instead of the chocolate chips.
• Mix-ins: Don’t hesitate to add nuts or dried fruits to the dough for added texture and flavor.

Serving This Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles

Serving Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles is just as delightful as making them! Here are some creative ideas to enjoy these festive treats:

• Holiday Gatherings: These cookies are perfect for holiday parties, bringing a touch of sweetness to any gathering. They make an excellent centerpiece on a cookie platter.
• Gift Giving: Wrap a dozen cookies in a festive box or tin and share them with friends or family. They make thoughtful handmade gifts.
• Family Movie Night: Enjoy these cookies while cozying up for a family movie. They add a sweet touch to your night in.
• Seasonal Occasions: Whether it’s a winter holiday or a Christmas celebration, these cookies fit any festive occasion beautifully.
• Storage Tips: If there are any cookies left, store them in an airtight container and enjoy them over the next few days. They’re great for snacks or dessert.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles are a delightful treat that encapsulates the warmth and joy of the holiday season. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these cookies are sure to please. I encourage you to try this recipe and share the love of homemade cookies with those around you. Enjoy the smiles and memories that come from baking and sharing these delicious treats!

Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles

The ultimate comfort food for the holidays! These Chewy Christmas Snickerdoodles are perfectly soft, bursting with flavors of cinnamon and sweetness, and feature delightful crunchy surprises. They’ll be your go-to treat for festive occasions and cozy gatherings!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 20 cookies

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• 2 sticks Butter at room temperature
• 3/4 cup Brown Sugar light or dark
• 2 large Eggs plus 1 egg yolk
• 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
• 2 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
• 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 1 1/4 cups Holiday M&M’s
• 1 cup Mini Pretzel Sticks crushed
• 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
• 1/3 cup Dark Chocolate Chunks
• 1/3 cup Granulated Sugar
• 2 teaspoons Cinnamon

Equipment

• Skillet
• Frying pan
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Add 1 stick of butter to a skillet set over medium heat. Cook until the butter begins to brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the heat and transfer to a heatproof bowl. Freeze for 10-15 minutes, but no longer.
2. Preheat the oven to 350° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, beat together the remaining stick of butter, the cooled browned butter, and the brown sugar until combined. Beat in the eggs and egg yolk, one at a time, until combined. Add the vanilla, beating until creamy. Add the flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Fold in 1 1/4 cups of the M&M's, pretzels, chocolate chips, and chocolate chunks.
5. Mix the sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Roll the dough into rounded 2-3 tablespoon-size balls and then roll through the cinnamon sugar. Place 3 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 8 minutes, then rotate the pan and push the remaining M&M's into the cookies. Bake for 2-3 minutes more. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet. They will continue to cook slightly as they sit on the baking sheet.
7. Eat warm or let cool and store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

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