Thanksgiving Cookies: 7 Irresistible Treats to Share

Name: Thanksgiving Cookies: 7 Irresistible Treats to Share
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

november 19, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh, the joy of baking during the holiday season! There’s something truly magical about filling your kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked cookies. My *thanksgiving cookies* are a special treat, packed with rich flavors and a dash of holiday spirit. They’re not just any cookies; they’re a delightful blend of chocolate goodness and crunchy nuts, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Imagine gathering around the table, a platter of these festive delights in the center, and everyone reaching for their favorite. Trust me, these cookies will elevate your festive gatherings and create sweet memories that last long after the season ends!

Ingredients

Getting the right ingredients is crucial for making the best *thanksgiving cookies*! Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups all-purpose flour: This is the base of your cookies, giving them structure. Make sure to measure it correctly—spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off without packing it down.
1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter is key for that perfect creamy texture. It helps in creaming with the sugars, creating a light and fluffy mixture. Leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before you start baking!
1 cup granulated sugar: This sweetens the cookies and contributes to their delightful texture. I love using granulated sugar for a nice crunch!
1/2 cup brown sugar: It adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor that pairs beautifully with the chocolate chips. I prefer light brown sugar, but dark works too if you want a stronger flavor.
2 large eggs: These act as a binder, holding everything together. Make sure they’re at room temperature for easier mixing.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For that lovely aromatic flavor! Always opt for pure vanilla extract if you can—it makes a world of difference.
1 teaspoon baking powder: This is your leavening agent, helping the cookies rise and become soft and chewy.
1/2 teaspoon salt: A little salt enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness. Don’t skip it!
1 cup chocolate chips: Choose your favorite type—milk, dark, or even white chocolate! They’re the stars of the show, bringing that rich chocolatey goodness.
1 cup chopped nuts (optional): I love adding walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch, but feel free to omit them if you prefer a nut-free version.

Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to baking the most delicious *thanksgiving cookies* your family will love!

How to Prepare Thanksgiving Cookies

Now, let’s dive into the blissful process of making these *thanksgiving cookies*! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a batch that’s sure to impress everyone at your holiday gathering!

Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your cookies bake evenly and achieve that delightful golden brown color. A preheated oven helps them rise properly, giving you that perfect soft and chewy texture we all love!

Creaming the Butter and Sugars

Next, grab a large mixing bowl and cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This is one of my favorite steps because you can really feel the texture change! Creaming incorporates air into the dough, which is essential for that tender bite. Trust me, take your time here—it’ll make all the difference!

Mixing in the Eggs and Vanilla

Now, crack in those two large eggs and pour in the vanilla extract. Mix them in until everything is well combined. The eggs will help bind the ingredients together, while the vanilla adds a warm, aromatic flavor that’ll make your kitchen smell heavenly. Yum!

Combining Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is super important! Whisking the dry ingredients helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and salt, ensuring your cookies rise just right. Plus, it breaks up any lumps in the flour, so your cookies have a smooth texture!

Forming the Cookie Dough

Now it’s time to combine the wet and dry ingredients! Gradually add the dry mix to the butter-sugar-egg mixture, stirring until just combined. Don’t overmix—this can lead to tough cookies! Then, gently fold in those heavenly chocolate chips and nuts if you’re using them. This is where the magic happens, so make sure every bite is packed with those delicious morsels!

Baking the Cookies

Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers still look a bit soft. They’ll continue to cook a little after you take them out, so don’t worry if they seem a tad underbaked!

Cooling and Storing

Once they’re out of the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up. Once completely cool, store your *thanksgiving cookies* in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious for as long as possible. I promise, they won’t last long once you share them!

FAQ About Thanksgiving Cookies

Got questions about making the best *thanksgiving cookies*? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common questions I hear, along with my tried-and-true answers.

How should I store my cookies?

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll last for about a week, but I can’t promise they’ll stick around that long! If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper and seal them in a freezer-safe bag.

Can I substitute ingredients?

Absolutely! If you’re out of chocolate chips, you can use raisins, dried cranberries, or even chunks of your favorite candy bar. If you want to make them a bit healthier, consider swapping half of the butter for applesauce. Just keep in mind that it might change the texture a bit!

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

No worries at all! You can substitute it with an equal amount of granulated sugar and add a tablespoon of molasses for that lovely caramel flavor. If you’re in a pinch, just use all granulated sugar; they’ll still be delicious!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients you’re using are also gluten-free, especially the baking powder. They’ll still turn out amazing!

What are some fun variations I can try?

Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a seasonal twist. Or, try throwing in some peanut butter chips or butterscotch chips along with your chocolate chips. For a festive flair, consider sprinkling some colored sugar on top before baking! Get creative and have fun with it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: These *thanksgiving cookies* come together in just about 27 minutes from start to finish, making them perfect for last-minute baking!
Perfect for Sharing: With this recipe yielding 24 delightful cookies, you’ll have plenty to share with family and friends at your holiday gatherings.
Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite ingredients, whether it’s nuts, different types of chocolate, or even dried fruits—make them your own!
Festive Treat: Their warm, inviting flavors and delightful texture make these cookies a festive addition to any holiday spread.
Kid-Friendly: Kids will love helping out with the mixing and decorating—these cookies are a great way to get everyone involved in the holiday spirit!
Deliciously Satisfying: The combination of chocolate chips, buttery goodness, and a hint of nostalgia will have you reaching for just one more cookie!

Tips for Success

Ready to take your *thanksgiving cookies* to the next level? Here are some of my favorite pro tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time!

Measure Accurately: Baking is a science, so measuring ingredients accurately is key. Use a kitchen scale if you have one for the best results. And remember, spoon and level your flour instead of scooping it directly from the bag!
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you start. This helps to create a smoother batter and ensures everything mixes together evenly. Trust me, it makes a difference!
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. We want them soft and chewy, not dense and hard!
Chill the Dough: If you have the time, consider chilling your cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps to prevent spreading and gives your cookies a thicker, chewier texture!
Use Quality Chocolate: The type of chocolate you use can really elevate your cookies. I recommend using high-quality chocolate chips or even chopping up a chocolate bar for richer flavors. You won’t regret it!
Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Every oven is different, so start checking your cookies a minute or two before the recommended baking time. They should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They’ll continue to cook a bit after you take them out!
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough, or try different mix-ins like dried cranberries or white chocolate chips. Make them uniquely yours!
Store Properly: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you layer them, use parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking.

With these tips, you’ll be a cookie-baking pro in no time, and your *thanksgiving cookies* will be the star of the holiday season!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

While I strive to provide accurate nutritional information for my *thanksgiving cookies*, please keep in mind that these values can vary quite a bit based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. The typical nutritional values for one cookie are approximately 150 calories, with 7g of fat, 2g of protein, and 20g of carbohydrates. However, I recommend using a nutrition calculator for precise results based on your choices. Enjoy baking and indulging in these delicious cookies, and remember that the joy of sharing them is what truly counts!

Share Your Thoughts

I absolutely love hearing from you, so don’t be shy! If you try my *thanksgiving cookies*, please leave a comment below. Let me know how they turned out and if you added any of your own special twists! Did you try a fun variation or a new ingredient? I’m all ears! Your feedback not only makes my day but also helps fellow bakers who are excited to try this recipe.

If you enjoyed these cookies, consider giving the recipe a rating. It really helps others find this delightful treat for their holiday gatherings. And remember, sharing is caring! Snap a photo of your cookies and tag me on social media. I can’t wait to see your beautiful bakes and the smiles they bring to your loved ones!

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Over mij

Hoi, mijn naam is Julia. Ik ben het hart van Vihaad Recipes en een gepassioneerde liefhebber van lekker eten. Mijn liefde voor koken begon al in mijn kindertijd, geïnspireerd door de heerlijke maaltijden van mijn grootmoeder. Vandaag de dag deel ik smakelijke recepten die mensen samenbrengen door het gedeelde plezier van eten.