Santa’s Helper Cookies are a festive and fun treat that’s perfect for the holiday season. They’re soft, chewy, and packed with a combination of sweet flavors like cinnamon, brown sugar, and chocolate. These cookies are great for baking with kids or gifting to friends and family. Here’s how you can make them:
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 1/2 cups mini chocolate chips (or regular chocolate chips)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup red and green M&Ms (optional, for a festive touch)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Mix the dry ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the butter and sugars:
- In a large bowl, use an electric mixer or a hand mixer to cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the eggs and vanilla:
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine the dry and wet ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until combined. The dough will be thick.
6. Add the oats, chocolate chips, and optional mix-ins:
- Stir in the oats, mini chocolate chips, and chopped walnuts (if using). You can also add the M&Ms at this point for a pop of color and festive touch.
7. Scoop the dough:
- Use a tablespoon or a cookie scoop to portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Space the cookies about 2 inches apart, as they will spread slightly while baking.
8. Bake the cookies:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft.
9. Cool and serve:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips:
- M&M alternatives: If you don’t have M&Ms, you can use any colorful candy or even holiday-themed sprinkles to make these cookies extra festive.
- Storage: These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Add-ins: Feel free to mix in other ingredients, such as dried cranberries or shredded coconut, for a fun twist.
These Santa’s Helper Cookies are a holiday favorite, combining the warmth of cinnamon, the sweetness of chocolate, and the festive colors of M&Ms. They’re perfect for leaving out for Santa or sharing with loved ones!