Santa’s Favorite? These Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies Might Be the Reason

Is it even Christmas without a plate of warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies on the table—or by the fireplace for a certain jolly visitor? Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, school party, or just a quiet night in, this classic recipe will bring comfort and cheer to any kitchen.

These soft chocolate chip cookies have just the right balance of crispy edges and tender centers. Rich with semi-sweet chocolate chips and a hint of vanilla, they’re sweet enough to satisfy Santa and simple enough for even beginner bakers to master.

Soft Chocolate Chip Cookies

Makes: 12 cookies

Ingredients:

• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup white sugar
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven:
   Set your oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix dry ingredients:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the butter and sugars:
   In a large mixing bowl, use an electric hand mixer to cream the butter, white sugar, and brown sugar together for 2–3 minutes, until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each.
4. Combine wet and dry:
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
5. Scoop and space:
   Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded portions of dough onto your prepared sheets, spacing each about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
6. Bake and cool:
   Bake one tray at a time on the middle rack for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are still soft. Let cookies rest on the tray for two minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

A Tip from the Elves:
These cookies are best enjoyed fresh from the oven with a cold glass of milk. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days—or freeze dough balls for a quick treat whenever cravings hit.

Warm, nostalgic, and crowd-pleasing, these cookies are a holiday must-have. Just be sure to leave a few out for Santa on Christmas Eve—he’s been known to double back for seconds!