Name: Chewy Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies That Wow Every Bite
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Salted Butter (Can substitute with unsalted butter.); 3/4 cup Light Brown Sugar (Can use granulated sugar but will alter flavor.); 1/4 cup Granulated White Sugar (For a richer flavor, use all brown sugar.); 3 large Egg Yolks (Using whole eggs makes cookies lighter.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Bean Paste or Extract (Substitute with pure vanilla extract if unavailable.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Measure correctly to prevent dry cookies.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Can substitute with baking soda but adjust quantities.); 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda (Necessary for achieving the right texture.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Omit if using salted butter.); 1 cup Red and Green M&Ms (Can substitute with other chocolate candies.); 1 cup White Chocolate Chips (Milk or dark chocolate can also be used.); 1 cup Pretzel Pieces (Can substitute with nuts for different flavor.); 1 cup Potato Chip Pieces (Corn chips can also work.); 1/4 cup Red and Green Jimmies (Optional but great for holiday themes.)

As I rummaged through my pantry, I stumbled upon a delightful assortment of snacks that could only inspire a holiday baking adventure. Enter the Chewy Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies, a festive treat where sweet meets salty in the most delicious way! Packed with treats like pretzels, potato chips, vibrant M&Ms, and creamy white chocolate, these cookies are not just a feast for the taste buds but a visual delight as well. The best part? They come together in under 30 minutes, making them a quick and fun option for those busy holiday gatherings. You won’t believe how something so simple can turn into an instant crowd-pleaser. Curious about making this whimsical cookie creation? Let’s get baking!

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Sweet and Salty Harmony: These Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies beautifully balance sweet M&Ms and creamy white chocolate with crunchy pretzels and chips.

Quick to Make: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a festive treat ready in no time—perfect for unexpected guests or last-minute holiday cravings.

Visual Delight: The vibrant colors of red and green candy combined with festive sprinkles create an eye-catching dessert that’s sure to impress.

Customizable Fun: Use your favorite snacks or sprinkles to personalize each batch; it’s a great way to get the family involved in baking!

Perfect for Sharing: Serve these cookies warm alongside your favorite coffee or milk, and watch them disappear at any holiday gathering. Check out my other festive favorites like Christmas Sugar Cookies or Chocolate Peppermint Cookies for more holiday cheer!

Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Salted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; can substitute with unsalted butter and adjust salt accordingly.
Light Brown Sugar – Introduces sweetness and chewy texture; granulated sugar can be used but will alter flavor slightly.
Granulated White Sugar – Enhances sweetness; for a richer flavor, use all brown sugar instead.
Egg Yolks – Provides moisture and binding; using whole eggs can make cookies lighter but less chewy.
Vanilla Bean Paste or Extract – Adds depth of flavor; substitute with pure vanilla extract if unavailable.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to cookies; make sure to measure correctly to prevent dry cookies.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent, contributing to rise; can substitute with baking soda but adjust quantities.
Baking Soda – Assists in leavening and works best with acidic ingredients; necessary for achieving the right texture.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; essential for taste—omit only if using salted butter.

For the Festive Mix-ins

Red and Green M&Ms – Provide a festive appearance and sweetness; can substitute with other chocolate candies.
White Chocolate Chips – Adds creaminess; milk or dark chocolate can be used as alternatives.
Pretzel Pieces – Introduces saltiness and crunch; can substitute with nuts for a different flavor.
Potato Chip Pieces – Provides a unique texture and salty taste; a different salty snack like corn chips can also work.
Red and Green Jimmies – Decorative sprinkles for enhancing visual appeal; optional but great for holiday themes.

Dive in and prepare to create delightful Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies that are sure to wow your guests!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. This step ensures that your Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies will bake evenly, resulting in delightful, chewy treats.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened salted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy—this step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your cookies.

Step 3: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla
Next, add the egg yolks and vanilla bean paste (or extract) to the creamed mixture. Continue mixing on medium speed for another 2 minutes, which will incorporate air for a lighter cookie. Your batter should look pale and fluffy now, bringing us closer to those festive Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies.

Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into the wet ingredients. Using a spatula, mix until just combined—be cautious not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough should start to come together nicely, ready for the fun mix-ins.

Step 5: Fold in Festive Mix-ins
Gently fold in the red and green M&Ms, white chocolate chips, pretzel pieces, and potato chip pieces using a spatula. This step is where the magic happens! You’ll transform the dough into colorful cookie dough packed with texture and flavor, perfect for your Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough into about 20 balls. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets to allow for spreading. If you like, you can sprinkle a few extra mix-ins on top for a decorative touch before baking these festive cookies.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. For cookies with chewy centers, aim for 10 minutes; for those with crisp edges, let them bake for the full 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are lightly golden but the centers still appear soft.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. This resting time helps set their shape and texture. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing you to enjoy each warm, chewy bite of your Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies.

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days ahead and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Simply scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet, then cover with plastic wrap before refrigerating. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just pop the cold dough straight into a preheated oven, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time if needed. This method ensures your cookies are just as delicious, with that delightful chewy texture, while saving you precious time during the busy holiday season!

Tips for the Best Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies

Measure Flour Correctly: Ensure you spoon flour into your measuring cup rather than scooping it directly. This prevents over-measuring, which could lead to dry cookies.

Baking Time Matters: Adjust your baking time based on your preference—10 minutes for chewier centers and 12 minutes for crisper edges. Keep a close eye to avoid overbaking.

Cool for Texture: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps maintain their ideal chewy texture.

Customize Mix-ins: Feel free to swap out pretzels or potato chips for your favorite snacks to create a unique twist on these Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check your baking soda and powder for freshness, as expired leavening agents can lead to flat cookies.

What to Serve with Chewy Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies?

The holidays are a perfect time to gather with loved ones and delight in festive feasts, making your sweet treats shine even brighter.

Glass of Milk:
A classic pairing that beautifully balances the sweetness of the cookies and complements the creamy white chocolate.
Rich Hot Chocolate:
The deep cocoa flavor enhances the sweet and salty experience, creating a warm and comforting treat for chilly evenings.
Coffee or Espresso:
The robust flavors of coffee provide a delightful contrast, making it a perfect treat for afternoon gatherings or holiday brunch.
Spiced Chai Tea:
Its warm spices enhance the sweet elements of the cookies, inviting cozy conversations around the table.
Vanilla Ice Cream:
Placing a scoop atop a warm cookie creates an indulgent dessert experience, with a delightful melt-in-your-mouth combo of textures.
Fruit Salad:
Fresh, vibrant fruits add a refreshing touch, cutting through the richness of the cookies for a light and healthy balance.
Cheese Platter:
Mild cheese varieties and nuts provide a savory contrast to the cookies, appealing to both sweet and salty cravings in one sitting.
Festive Punch:
A cranberry or pomegranate punch adds a fruity sparkle to your gathering, pairing perfectly with sugary bites for a celebratory mood.
Holiday Seasonal Candies:
A mix of chocolate-covered pretzels or peppermint bark can be a fun addition, echoing flavors found in the cookies while enhancing the festive spirit.

Dive into holiday joy by combining these delightful options with your Chewy Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies for a festive feast your friends and family will remember!

Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful cookies to suit your taste and pantry!

Nutty Crunch: Swap pretzels with your favorite nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for added flavor and crunch. The nuttiness will be a wonderful contrast to the sweet chocolate.
Butterscotch Twists: Replace some white chocolate chips with butterscotch chips for a warm, caramel-like flavor that adds richness and depth to each bite. It’s like a hug in cookie form.
Potato Chip Alternatives: Try using corn chips instead of potato chips for an unexpected twist! Their unique taste contributes an exciting crunch that contrasts beautifully with the sweet elements.
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate for a delicious vegan version. You won’t miss the dairy; the flavors still mingle to create cookie magic.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dough for a sweet-and-spicy cookie! This unexpected heat can elevate the flavor profile and surprise your taste buds.
Seasonal Mix-Ins: Use pastel candies instead of red and green M&Ms to make these cookies suitable for any occasion! They’re perfect for birthdays or baby showers, sprucing up the color scheme effortlessly.
Chocolate Variety: Substitute white chocolate chips with milk or dark chocolate for a richer taste. Each chocolate version offers a lovely variation that can appeal to different chocolate lovers.
Sprinkle Them Up: Experiment with different sprinkles, or even leave them out, to match whatever holiday you’re celebrating. If you love the festive vibe, consider using seasonal shapes to make them even more special.

Take these variations as a guide to create your signature Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies, and don’t forget to serve them warm alongside a glass of milk or coffee for the ultimate treat! If you’re interested in more festive recipes, check out my Christmas Sugar Cookies for a classic favorite or try the rich flavors of Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. Happy baking!

Storage Tips for Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies

Airtight Container: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their chewiness and freshness.

Refrigerator: If you have leftover dough, keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just scoop and bake when you’re ready for a fresh batch of Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies!

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze baked cookies in a single layer for up to 2 weeks. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag for easy access.

Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies again, reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of butter should I use for the cookies?
I suggest using salted butter for these Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies as it adds richness and moisture. If you only have unsalted butter on hand, you can absolutely use that! Just remember to adjust the salt in the recipe accordingly, about 1/4 teaspoon should do the trick.

How should I store the cookies after baking?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their delightful chewiness. If you want to save them for longer, refrigerate any leftover dough for up to 3 days, then scoop and bake as desired!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Definitely! To freeze your unbaked Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies, scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, then transfer the frozen dough balls into a zip-top bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to bake, just bake them directly from the freezer—add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

What if my cookies spread too much during baking?
If you find that your cookies are spreading excessively, it may be due to your butter being too soft or melted. Next time, try chilling your cookie dough for about 15-30 minutes before baking. Additionally, ensure that you’re measuring your flour properly; spoon it into the measuring cup instead of scooping to prevent over-measuring.

Can I make substitutions for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you’re making these Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. If you want to avoid dairy, coconut oil can replace butter, while flax eggs work well as an egg substitute. Just be sure to adjust the quantities based on the products you use.