Name: Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies: Sweet & Salty Holiday Magic
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Salted Butter (can use unsalted for less salt); 3/4 cup Light Brown Sugar (dark brown sugar enhances caramel notes); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (can be omitted for reduced sweetness); 2 number Egg Yolks (whole eggs can be used but will alter texture); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Bean Paste/Extract (any vanilla extract can substitute); 2 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour (ensure accurate measurement for best texture); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (can substitute baking soda but adjust quantity); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (gives a slight crunch); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (can omit if dietary concerns); 1 cup Red and Green M&M's (any chocolate candies can be swapped); 1 cup White Chocolate Chips (substitute with milk or dark chocolate for variety); 1 cup Pretzel Pieces (other salty snacks like peanuts or crackers can be used); 1 cup Potato Chip Pieces (can be replaced with cornflakes); 1/4 cup Red and Green Jimmies (any sprinkles can be used)

Amidst the festive chaos of the holiday season, I found myself on the brink of a mini crisis—how could I create a cookie that would not only satisfy a sweet tooth but also bring joy to my whole family? Enter the Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies, my go-to solution for a delightful blend of sweet and salty flavors. With fun mix-ins like pretzels, potato chips, and colorful M&M's, these cookies are not just easy to whip up in 30 minutes but also perfect for involving the kids in the baking fun. It’s a cheerful recipe that guarantees festive spirit and taste, ensuring a delicious treat that everyone will adore. Ready to create a holiday masterpiece that’s both scrumptious and simple? Let’s get baking!

Why Are These Cookies a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor Combo: The fusion of sweet and salty is simply heavenly, elevating each bite!
Quick Preparation: You can whip up these festive delights in just 30 minutes, with no chill time needed—perfect for last-minute baking!
Kid-Friendly Fun: Bake together with little ones for a joyful experience; their eyes will light up with each colorful mix-in!
Endless Customization: From Eggnog Cookies Soft to Peaches Cream Cookies, the mix-in options allow for creativity and personal touches.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether for a holiday gathering or a cozy family night, these cookies will surely impress and satisfy a variety of palates!

Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookie Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

Salted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; feel free to use unsalted for less salt.
Light Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and chewiness; dark brown sugar can enhance caramel notes.
Granulated Sugar – Balances sweetness and texture; can be omitted for reduced sweetness.
Egg Yolks – Contributes to moisture and structure; whole eggs can be used but will alter texture.
Vanilla Bean Paste/Extract – Enhances flavor with a warm, sweet aroma; any vanilla extract can substitute.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to cookies; ensure accurate measurement for the best texture.
Baking Powder – A leavening agent that helps cookies rise; you can substitute baking soda but adjust the quantity.
Baking Soda – Another leavening agent that gives a slight crunch.
Salt – Enhances overall sweetness; you may omit this if there are dietary concerns.

For the Mix-Ins

Red and Green M&M's – Adds color and sweetness; any chocolate candies can be swapped.
White Chocolate Chips – Add creamy sweetness; substitute with milk or dark chocolate for variety.
Pretzel Pieces – Contributes a salty crunch; other salty snacks like peanuts or crackers can be used.
Potato Chip Pieces – Imparts crunch and saltiness; can be replaced with cornflakes for a similar texture.
Red and Green Jimmies – For visual appeal and festive touch; any sprinkles can be used.

Dive into the world of these Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies and experiment with your favorite mix-ins for the ultimate holiday treat!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that's warming up, line two standard baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure your Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies don’t stick. This prep step is crucial for achieving perfectly baked cookies, so don’t skip it!

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened salted butter, 3/4 cup light brown sugar, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer on medium speed to cream the mixture for about 2 minutes until it turns light and fluffy. This fluffy base will ensure your cookies have that delightful chewy texture.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add in 2 egg yolks and 2 teaspoons of vanilla bean paste or extract to the bowl. Continue mixing on medium speed for another 2 minutes, until the mixture is pale in color and well combined. This step adds richness and flavor to your Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies, making them truly irresistible.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; your goal is a soft dough without any visible flour.

Step 5: Add Mix-Ins
Now for the fun part! Carefully fold in 1 cup of red and green M&M's, 1 cup of white chocolate chips, 1 cup of pretzel pieces, 1 cup of potato chip pieces, and 1/4 cup of red and green jimmies. Use a spatula to ensure an even distribution of all the colorful and crunchy additions in your cookie dough.

Step 6: Shape Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion the cookie dough into 20 balls, spacing them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets. For an extra festive touch, you can press a few additional mix-ins onto the tops of the dough balls. This step will make your Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies look even more inviting.

Step 7: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. If you prefer chewier cookies, aim for 10 minutes; for crisper edges, opt for 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and remember they will continue to set slightly after you take them out.

Step 8: Cool Cookies
Once baked, let your Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool for an additional 10 minutes. This cooling period allows the cookies to firm up while still retaining their deliciously chewy center.

Expert Tips for Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies

Measure Accurately: Make sure to measure your flour correctly to avoid dense cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method or a scale for best results.
Don’t Overmix: After adding dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, chewy texture you desire in your Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Chewy cookies are perfect at the 10-minute mark, while crisper edges need about 12 minutes. Adjust baking times based on your oven.
Cool Before Storing: Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This helps them maintain their texture and prevents them from becoming soggy.
Customize with Mix-Ins: Feel free to experiment! Swap in butterscotch chips or nuts for new flavor combinations—your creativity can take these Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies to the next level!

What to Serve With Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies

The aroma of freshly baked cookies fills the air, inviting moments of warmth and joy to your holiday gatherings.

Glass of Milk: The classic pairing enhances the sweet and salty cookie experience, balancing the rich flavors perfectly.
Hot Cocoa: Cozy up with this warm drink, providing a delightful contrast to the crunchy bits in the cookies.
Ice Cream Sundae: Top vanilla ice cream with crumbled cookies for an indulgent treat that captures the festive spirit.
Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits like berries or citrus add a refreshing, tart element to complement the sweet cookies.
Cheese Board: A selection of mild cheeses paired with your cookies introduces an unexpected savory twist that delights the palate.
Mulled Wine: This spiced, warm drink brings a holiday cheer and pairs beautifully with the sweet saltiness of the cookies.
Gingerbread Cookies: Keep the festive vibe going with another holiday favorite, creating a delightful assortment on your dessert table.
Pecan Pie Bars: Rich and nutty, these bars enhance the sweet-savory balance with a hint of buttery goodness.

Each pairing brings out new flavors, ensuring your holiday treats create delicious memories with every bite!

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies are perfect for busy holiday bakers looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This method ensures your cookies taste just as fresh when baked. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and shape the dough, and proceed with preheating the oven and baking as directed. If you want to extend your prep further, you can freeze the dough for up to 2 weeks; just allow it to come to room temperature before baking for delightful, warm cookies that bring the spirit of the season to your kitchen!

Storage Tips for Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and chewy, perfect for holiday snacking.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, you can keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: To freeze your Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies, place them in an airtight container with layers separated by parchment paper. They can last up to 2 months—perfect for holiday prep!
Reheating: For the best taste, reheat frozen cookies in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp. Enjoy every delightful bite!

Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and make these cookies truly your own with these delightful twists and substitutions!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter for a delicious dairy-free treat. Your cookies will still have that rich flavor without any dairy.
Nutty Addition: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for extra crunch and a nutty flavor. This not only enhances the texture but also adds a heartwarming touch to each bite.
Chocolate Lovers: Swap the M&M's for chocolate chips of your choice—dark, milk, or even white chocolate can heighten the chocolate experience! These variations will create a rich, chocolaty sensation.
Seasonal Spices: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients for a warm spice kick that perfectly complements the festive season. A sprinkle of holiday spices sings joy to every bite!
Caramel Drizzle: After baking, drizzle melted caramel over the cookies for a fabulous sweet finish. The gooey warmth and flavor of the caramel bring an indulgent flair to your festive treats.
Crunchy Texture: Replace potato chips with crushed cornflakes or crispy onions for unexpected crunch and flavor. The difference in texture will keep everyone guessing your secret ingredient!
Fruity Twist: Mix in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or cherries for a tangy, fruity surprise. The burst of fruitiness adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet and salty elements of the cookies.
Minty Freshness: Incorporate crushed peppermint candies or chocolate mint chips for a refreshing holiday twist. This variation will have your taste buds singing with joy!

Each of these variations can turn your already delightful Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies into a festive masterpiece! Want to explore more unique cookie recipes? Check out these delicious options like Mexican Wedding Cookies or Thumbprint Cookies Melt. Happy baking!

Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies Recipe FAQs

What ingredients should I look for when selecting M&M's?
Absolutely! When selecting M&M's, look for packages with vibrant colors and no faded or damaged candies. If you're using them for a festive touch, red and green varieties are perfect for the holidays. Keep an eye out for bulk options too, as these can add a chunky burst of color to your Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies.

How should I store leftover cookies for freshness?
To keep your Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This way, they maintain their chewy texture, perfect for indulging at any time. If you prefer a firmer bite, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days, just make sure they're wrapped well to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze the cookie dough before baking?
Certainly! To freeze your Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies dough, scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer the dough balls to an airtight container with layers separated by parchment paper. They can stay frozen for up to 2 months—just let them come to room temperature before baking!

What should I do if my cookies come out too flat?
If your cookies turn out flat, it’s likely due to a couple of common reasons. First, make sure you’re measuring your flour accurately; if it’s packed too tightly, it can throw off the texture. Secondly, check that your butter is not too warm—softened butter is ideal but try to avoid melted butter. For next time, you can also refrigerate the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.

Are these cookies safe for children with nut allergies?
While Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies can be made nut-free, it’s important to verify each ingredient used for potential cross-contamination with nuts. Always check labels, especially for added mix-ins. If necessary, you can easily substitute any nuts with more pretzel pieces or additional chocolate candies, ensuring the cookies remain a safe and delicious treat for kids.