Santa’s Favorite Chocolate Chip Cookies

There’s something magical about a tiny cookie that still delivers all the buttery, chocolatey joy of a classic. These mini chocolate chip cookies bake up soft in the center, lightly crisp on the edges, and absolutely perfect for sharing especially with Santa.

Santa's Favorite Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • ½ cup mini chocolate chips
  • Optional: Swap half the chocolate chips for mini M&Ms for a festive touch

Steps

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and both sugars until light and fluffy it should look pale and creamy.
  4. Mix in the vanilla and egg yolk until smooth.
  5. Add the dry ingredients and gently fold until a soft dough forms. Don’t worry if it seems thick that’s perfect for mini cookies.
  6. Stir in the mini chocolate chips.
  7. Scoop tiny 1-teaspoon mounds onto your baking sheet and bake for 7–9 minutes, just until the edges turn golden.

Chef’s Tips

  • Chill the dough for 10 minutes if it feels too soft it helps the minis hold their shape.
  • For extra gooey centers, pull the cookies as soon as the edges turn lightly golden.
  • Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 4 days; they stay wonderfully soft.

Variations

  • Peppermint Twist: Add 1 tbsp crushed candy cane to the dough.
  • Santa Spice: Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon for a warm holiday flavor.
  • Double Chocolate: Swap 2 tbsp flour with 2 tbsp cocoa powder.