Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies

Sweet and salty, Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies are the ultimate festive treat! Packed with a delightful mix of pretzels, potato chips, M&M’s, white chocolate chips, and sprinkles, these cookies bring together a variety of textures and flavors that will make them a hit at any holiday gathering. Their versatility makes them perfect for cookie exchanges, family gatherings, or simply enjoying at home during the holiday season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These cookies require simple ingredients and minimal effort, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet and salty elements creates an irresistible flavor profile that’s sure to please everyone.
• Customizable Mix-ins: Feel free to switch up the add-ins based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry!
• Festive Appearance: The vibrant colors from M&M’s and sprinkles make these cookies as visually appealing as they are delicious.
• Great for Sharing: With 20 servings per batch, these cookies are great for holiday parties and sharing with friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheets
• Spatula
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugars effortless, leading to light and fluffy cookies.
• Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, ensuring easy removal.
• Cookie scoop: Helps create uniform cookie sizes for even baking.

Ingredients

To create your delicious Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

• 3/4 cup salted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
• 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup red and green M&M’s
• 1/3 cup white chocolate chips
• 1/3 cup pretzel pieces
• 1/3 cup potato chip pieces
• 2 tbsp red and green jimmies

How to Make Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, combine the softened salted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Cream these together using an electric mixer for about two minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla

Add the egg yolks and vanilla bean paste (or extract) into the bowl. Mix on medium speed for another two minutes until the mixture becomes pale in color and fluffy.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, add in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix until combined; do not overmix.

Step 5: Fold in Mix-ins

Gently fold in the red and green M&M’s, white chocolate chips, pretzel pieces, potato chip pieces, and jimmies using a spatula until everything is well combined.

Step 6: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets

Using a cookie scoop, portion out dough balls (about 20) onto the prepared baking sheets. Make sure they are arranged about two inches apart.

Step 7: Optional Toppings

If desired, add extra mix-ins on top of each cookie dough ball before baking for a more decorative touch!

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Place the trays in the oven to bake for 10-12 minutes. Bake for 10 minutes if you prefer chewier centers or up to 12 minutes for crisper edges.

Step 9: Shape Cookies

For perfectly shaped cookies, you can use a large circular cookie cutter right after removing them from the oven. Swirl it around each cookie gently to shape them nicely.

Step 10: Cool Down

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for five minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Let them cool completely for another ten minutes.

Step 11: Store Leftovers

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Enjoy your festive treats!

How to Serve Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies

Serving Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies is a delightful way to spread holiday cheer. These unique cookies can be enjoyed in various settings, whether at home or during festive gatherings.

Cookie Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter alongside other holiday treats. This colorful display will attract guests and create a festive atmosphere.

Milk Pairing

• Serve with a glass of cold milk for that classic cookie experience. The creaminess of milk complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to make ice cream sandwiches! Add your favorite flavor of ice cream in between and freeze briefly for a delicious treat.

Holiday Gift Bags

• Package individual cookies in clear bags as thoughtful gifts for friends and family. Tie with festive ribbons for an extra special touch.

Cookie Decorating Station

• Set up a decorating station where guests can add extra sprinkles or toppings to their cookies before eating. This interactive option adds fun to your gathering!

How to Perfect Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies

To achieve the best results with Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Having butter and eggs at room temperature ensures better mixing and helps achieve a fluffy texture.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Chill the dough (optional): For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain their shape while baking.

• Watch baking time closely: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them from the oven when they are just set for chewier centers.

Best Side Dishes for Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies

Pair your Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies with these delightful side dishes to enhance your holiday dessert table.

1. Hot Chocolate: A rich, creamy hot chocolate makes a warming drink alongside sweet cookies.

2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a light contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, balancing flavors beautifully.

3. Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses that provide a savory element, creating an interesting flavor pairing with the cookie’s sweetness.

4. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts add crunch and warmth, making them an excellent snack alongside your cookies.

5. Candy Cane Brownies: These fudgy brownies bring in seasonal flavors and pair well with the texture of Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies.

6. Holiday Punch: A fruity punch can refresh guests while complementing the sweet profiles of your baked goods.

7. Caramel Sauce Dip: Serve warm caramel sauce for dipping cookies, enhancing their sweetness even more!

8. Yule Log Cake: Add traditional holiday flair with a Yule log cake, which combines festive flavors perfect for dessert lovers!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Room Temperature Step: Using cold butter or eggs can prevent your cookies from achieving the desired texture. Always let them sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long after adding flour can lead to tough cookies. Blend until just combined for a softer bite.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Scooping flour directly from the bag can pack it down and result in dry cookies. Use a spoon to fluff up the flour before measuring it out.
• Ignoring Bake Time Variations: Each oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies towards the end of baking. Adjust time based on how you like your cookie texture.
• Failing to Chill Dough (if needed): Some recipes benefit from chilling dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent spreading and ensures thicker cookies.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to three days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies

• Freeze unbaked dough balls on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
• Baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for two months.

Reheating Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes for a freshly baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies unique?

Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies are unique due to their combination of sweet and salty ingredients, including pretzels and potato chips, creating an exciting flavor profile.

Can I customize my Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies?

Absolutely! You can swap out M&M’s or chocolate chips for your favorite candy or add nuts, dried fruits, or even different sprinkles for variety.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Ensure your butter is softened but not melted. Chilling the dough before baking can also help maintain their shape.

Can I use whole eggs instead of egg yolks?

While egg yolks provide richness and moisture, using whole eggs may alter the texture slightly but is possible if you prefer.

Final Thoughts

Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies are not only fun to make but also versatile. The balance of sweet and savory flavors makes them perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins to create a cookie that suits your taste!