Name: Santa's Cookies: Indulgent Red Velvet Treats to Brighten Your Holiday
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 51 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted sweet cream butter (Softened); 1 cup Granulated sugar (Light brown sugar can be substituted); 2 large Eggs (Room temperature); 1 teaspoon Pure vanilla extract (Almond extract can be a festive twist); 1 tablespoon Super red food coloring; 2 tablespoons Unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon Baking soda (Ensure it’s fresh); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch; 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt (Omit if using salted butter); 1 cup Gluten-free cake flour (Can be substituted with all-purpose flour); 1 cup All-purpose flour (Can be substituted with gluten-free flour); 1 cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips (Can be replaced with milk or dark chocolate chips); 1 cup Mini marshmallows (Can use regular-sized marshmallows cut down); 1/2 cup Crushed candy canes (For a festive crunch); 1 cup Powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons Milk (Mix with powdered sugar until smooth); Creative options (Include cookie dough pieces, more marshmallows, white chocolate chips, and holiday sprinkles)

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The first whiff of these festive treats instantly transports me to cozy holiday gatherings, where laughter dances in the air and the aroma of baking cookies fills the home. Say hello to Santa’s Cookies: vibrant red velvet cookies swirled with semi-sweet chocolate chips and topped with fluffy mini marshmallows. Not only is this recipe a quick and easy way to elevate your dessert game, but it also doubles as a charming, homemade gift that family and friends will adore. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll be whipping up a delightful batch that’s both soft and chewy, perfect for spreading the holiday cheer. Curiosity piqued? Let’s dive into the magic of these scrumptious cookies!

Why Are Santa’s Cookies a Must-Bake?

Irresistible Flavor: Each cookie bursts with semi-sweet chocolate chips and soft mini marshmallows, creating a decadent treat that’s hard to resist.

Festive Appeal: The striking red velvet color and delicious toppings make these cookies perfect for holiday gatherings, impressing guests with their vibrant presentation.

Quick & Easy: This straightforward recipe requires minimal effort, so you can whip up a delightful batch in no time—ideal for busy holiday schedules!

Gift-Worthy Treats: Package these cookies in festive boxes, and you’ll have a delightful homemade gift that friends and family will cherish. Want to explore more festive treats? Check out these Tiramisu Cookies Melt or Lemon Raspberry Cookies for extra holiday inspiration!

Customizable Options: With variations like white chocolate chips or a hint of mint, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit every taste preference.

Santa’s Cookies Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to make these festive red velvet delights!

For the Cookie Base

Unsalted sweet cream butter – Provides richness and flavor; use unsalted to control sodium levels.
Granulated sugar – Sweetness and structure; light brown sugar can be substituted for a deeper flavor.
Large eggs – Adds moisture and binding; make sure they are at room temperature for better incorporation.
Pure vanilla extract – Flavor enhancer; almond extract can be a festive twist.
Super red food coloring – Gives the cookies their vibrant red hue.
Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds chocolaty depth to the cookies.
Baking soda – This leavening agent helps create lift; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
Cornstarch – Softens cookies and helps maintain their shape.
Kosher salt – Balances sweetness; you can omit it if using salted butter.
Gluten-free cake flour – Ensures needed structure without gluten; substitute with all-purpose flour if desired.
All-purpose flour – Adds bulk and structure; can also be swapped for gluten-free flour.

For the Chocolate and Toppings

Semi-sweet chocolate chips – Brings rich sweetness; feel free to replace with milk or dark chocolate chips.
Mini marshmallows – Adds softness and a delightful touch; regular-sized marshmallows can be cut down.
Crushed candy canes – For a festive crunch and flavor; crush in a plastic bag to keep things tidy.

For the Icing

Powdered sugar – Creates a sweet drizzle over cookies.
Milk – Mix with powdered sugar until smooth for the ideal icing consistency.

Additional Toppings

Creative options include cookie dough pieces, more marshmallows, white chocolate chips, and holiday sprinkles to add a personal touch to your festive creations.

Dive into the joy of baking and let every bite of your Santa’s Cookies transport you to a holiday wonderland!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Santa’s Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 410°F (210°C). This temperature is crucial for achieving a perfectly baked texture for Santa’s Cookies. While the oven warms, gather your ingredients and line two baking sheets with silicone liners for easy cookie release.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a stand mixer, combine unsalted sweet cream butter and granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential as it incorporates air into the dough, leading to a soft and chewy finished cookie.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the large eggs to the creamed butter and sugar, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Once fully combined, blend in the pure vanilla extract. This will enhance the flavor of Santa’s Cookies and provide a delicious aromatic foundation for your batter.

Step 4: Incorporate the Red Food Coloring
For that signature festive hue, mix in the super red food coloring until fully incorporated. Your cookie batter will now take on a vibrant red color, making these Santa’s Cookies visually appealing and perfect for holiday celebrations.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free cake flour, all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, cornstarch, and kosher salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed to ensure a smooth blend without overworking the dough.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate and Chill
Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and mini marshmallows until evenly distributed throughout the dough. To enhance the texture of Santa’s Cookies, cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough uncovered for about 20 minutes, allowing it to firm up for easier handling.

Step 7: Scoop and Shape the Dough
After chilling, use a 3.5 oz scoop to portion out the dough, rolling each piece into a tall ball. Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are evenly spaced to allow for expansion while baking. Slightly flatten the tops with your hands to create an even shape.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 8-11 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want the edges to be set while the centers remain slightly gooey. This slight underbaking is key for that delightful, soft texture that makes Santa’s Cookies irresistible.

Step 9: Cool Before Icing
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This cooling time helps set the cookies while preserving their soft centers, making them easier to decorate later.

Step 10: Prepare the Icing
While the cookies cool, prepare the icing by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of milk until you achieve a smooth and pourable consistency. This sweet drizzle will top your Santa’s Cookies, adding an extra layer of sweetness and festive flair.

Step 11: Decorate the Cookies
Once the cookies have fully cooled, drizzle the prepared icing over each one, allowing it to cascade down the sides. Feel free to add holiday sprinkles or other creative toppings to personalize your Santa’s Cookies and make them extra special for the festive season.

Santa’s Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these festive cookies and make them uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to cater to gluten-sensitive friends. You can enjoy the same delightful texture without worry.
Minty Twist: Add a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough and mix in crushed candy canes for a refreshing holiday flavor that brings a delightful zing to each bite.
Nutty Flavor: Fold in toasted pecans or walnuts along with the chocolate chips for a crunchy twist that complements the soft texture of the cookies beautifully.
Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips to create a deliciously rich, dairy-free version of these beloved cookies.
White Chocolate Variation: Swap out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier flavor that pairs perfectly with the red velvet base.
Spiced Up: Infuse your cookies with a touch of cinnamon or ginger for a warm, spicy kick that will fill your kitchen with cozy holiday aromas.
Decorative Match: Mix in holiday-themed sprinkles into the dough or on top of the icing for extra pizzazz—perfect for festive gatherings or cookie decorating parties!
Candy Bar Crunch: Chop up your favorite candy bars and mix them into the dough for an unexpected flavor explosion, adding an element of surprise that everyone will adore.

Now that you’ve got some fun ideas, don’t forget to check out these Chocolate Chip Cookies if you’re looking for a classic favorite, or perhaps some Lemon Raspberry Cookies for a refreshing twist!

Make Ahead Options

These Santa’s Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making them a wonderful choice for busy holiday schedules! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine all ingredients, scoop the dough into tall balls, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to develop, enhancing their deliciousness. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just bake directly from the fridge, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for perfectly soft, gooey cookies.

Helpful Tricks for Santa’s Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and a smoother batter, resulting in perfect Santa’s Cookies.
Chill the Dough: To avoid overly flat cookies, chill the dough for about 20 minutes before baking; this helps maintain their shape and chewy center.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on baking times; slightly underbake the cookies for a softer, gooey center, which is key to their deliciousness.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the amount of sugar slightly; however, maintain the balance for optimal flavor in Santa’s Cookies.
Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with additional toppings like cookie dough pieces or decorative sprinkles to personalize your holiday treats while enhancing the festive appeal!

Storage Tips for Santa’s Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your Santa’s Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 weeks to keep them soft and chewy.

Fridge: If you prefer, these cookies can also be kept in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to a week; just ensure they’re well-wrapped to avoid absorbing odors.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Santa’s Cookies in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Allow them to thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, microwave the cookies briefly for about 10-15 seconds to restore their gooey goodness, making them perfect for holiday gatherings.

What to Serve with Santa’s Cookies

Pair these vibrant treats with delightful accompaniments to elevate your festive gatherings.

Glass of Milk: The classic pairing balances sweetness, enhancing the delightful flavors of the cookies.
Hot Chocolate: A warm mug of rich hot cocoa complements the chocolate chips, creating a cozy atmosphere on chilly nights.
Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee contrast nicely with the cookies’ sweetness, ideal for adult gatherings.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert combo that highlights the red velvet cookies.
Fruit Platter: Fresh berries or citrus slices offer a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness while adding a splash of color to your table.
Festive Drinks: Sparkling cider or holiday punch brings bubbly cheer and encourages festive merriment among guests.
Candy Cane Milkshake: Blend up a holiday-themed shake with peppermint and chocolate for a playful twist that echoes the cookie’s flavors.
Gingerbread Men: Pair with traditional gingerbread cookies for a nostalgic treat, taking your holiday spirit up a notch.
Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti brings a wonderful texture balance, perfect for dipping and adding another layer of flavor to your dessert spread.
Fudge Brownies: For an indulgent treat, serve alongside chocolate brownies for the ultimate chocolate lover’s delight.

Santa’s Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ingredients for Santa’s Cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, opt for fresh, high-quality unsalted butter and room-temperature large eggs for the best mixability and flavor. For the flour, gluten-free cake flour can give you that desired texture if preferred, but sometimes a good all-purpose flour does the trick too. Pay attention to the expiration dates on your baking soda and cocoa powder, as freshness significantly affects the rise and depth of flavor in your cookies.

How should I store Santa’s Cookies during the holidays?
For optimal freshness, store your Santa’s Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 weeks. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the refrigerator where they’ll last for about a week, just be sure they’re well-wrapped to avoid any odors.

Can I freeze Santa’s Cookies, and if so, how?
Very much so! To freeze your cookies, allow them to cool completely first. Then, place the cookies in a single layer on a sheet and freeze until firm. After that, transfer them into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, layering parchment paper between them for added protection. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight, and if desired, warm them up in the microwave for just 10-15 seconds for that freshly-baked taste.

What are some common issues when baking Santa’s Cookies?
The most common issue could be overly flat cookies. To avoid this, ensure your dough is sufficiently chilled before baking. If your cookies are too cakey, it may be due to overmixing while adding the dry ingredients. Always mix just until combined for that perfect chewy texture. And remember, slight underbaking is key to achieving the gooey centers that make these cookies so delightful!

Are there any dietary considerations for Santa’s Cookies?
Absolutely! If you have allergies, be cautious with chocolate chips, as they may contain allergens like dairy or nuts. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cake flour and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified. If you’re making these for pets, it’s best to keep the cookies strictly for humans, as ingredients like chocolate can be toxic for dogs.