Special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies are a delightful treat that combines sweet and salty flavors, perfect for the holiday season. These cookies are not only fun to make but also great for sharing at parties, family gatherings, or as a festive dessert option. With their unique blend of ingredients, including pretzels, potato chips, and colorful M&M’s, these cookies will surely become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor Combination: The mix of sweet chocolate and salty snacks creates an irresistible taste.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, baking these cookies is a breeze.
- Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch for friends or family and watch them disappear!
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins or adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences.
- Festive Appearance: The colorful sprinkles and M&M’s make these cookies visually appealing for any celebration.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything at hand will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or electric mixer
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or electric mixer: Saves time and effort by thoroughly creaming the butter and sugars together.
- Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for mixing all the ingredients without spills.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes clean-up easier after baking.
Ingredients
These Special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies feature a blend of sweet, salty, and crunchy elements that everyone will enjoy!
For the Dough
- 3/4 cup salted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
- 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Mix-ins
- 1/2 cup red and green M&M’s
- 1/3 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup pretzel pieces
- 1/3 cup potato chip pieces
- 2 tbsp red and green jimmies
How to Make Special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside to prepare for cookie placement.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
Add softened salted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar into a large bowl. Cream these ingredients together using an electric mixer for about two minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Egg Yolks and Vanilla
Incorporate the egg yolks and vanilla into your creamed mixture. Mix on medium speed for two minutes until the mixture is pale in color and fluffy.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Carefully add in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix until everything is combined well.
Step 5: Fold in Mix-ins
Gently fold in the M&M’s, white chocolate chips, pretzel pieces, potato chip pieces, and sprinkles using a spatula until evenly mixed throughout.
Step 6: Scoop Cookie Dough
Scoop out dough into approximately 20 balls. Place them two inches apart on your prepared baking sheets.
Step 7: Optional Toppings
For added visual appeal, add a few extra mix-ins on top of each cookie dough ball before baking. This step is optional but makes your cookies look delightful!
Step 8: Bake Cookies
Bake in your preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes. If you prefer chewier centers, aim for around 10 minutes; if you like crisper edges, go for closer to 12 minutes.
Step 9: Shape Cookies (Optional)
If desired, use a large circular cookie cutter immediately after removing them from the oven to shape each cookie perfectly. This helps create uniform shapes!
Step 10: Cool Down
After baking, let your cookies cool on the baking sheets for about five minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely for another ten minutes.
Step 11: Store Leftovers
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container where they will stay fresh for up to three days!
Enjoy making these Special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies as part of your holiday festivities!
How to Serve Special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies
Special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies are not just delicious but also fun and festive! They can be served in various ways to enhance your holiday gatherings and delight your guests.
On a Festive Platter
- Arrange cookies on a colorful platter adorned with holiday decorations. This visually appealing display will attract everyone’s attention.
With Hot Cocoa
- Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa. The sweet and salty flavors perfectly complement the rich chocolate drink, creating a cozy treat.
As Dessert Bites
- Cut the cookies into smaller pieces and serve them as dessert bites. This is a great option for holiday parties where guests can enjoy a variety of treats.
Gift-Wrapped Treats
- Package the cookies in decorative boxes or bags as holiday gifts. Everyone loves homemade treats, and this personal touch will surely be appreciated.
At Cookie Decorating Stations
- Set up an interactive cookie decorating station with extra sprinkles, candies, and toppings. Guests can personalize their cookies while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
How to Perfect Special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies
To make sure your Special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg yolks are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffiness.
- Don’t overmix: Once you add the flour mixture, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Chill the dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before scooping. This helps prevent spreading during baking.
- Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to swap in different candies or snacks to create unique flavor combinations that suit your taste.
- Adjust baking time: Watch the cookies closely as they bake. For softer centers, aim for the shorter baking time; for crisper edges, go longer.
- Use quality chocolate: Opt for high-quality white chocolate chips for a richer flavor that enhances your cookies.
Best Side Dishes for Special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies
Pairing side dishes with your Special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies can elevate the entire dessert experience! Here are some delightful options to consider:
- Classic Milk
A tall glass of cold milk is a timeless companion that perfectly balances the sweetness of these cookies. - Eggnog
The creamy richness of eggnog adds a festive touch and brings out the holiday spirit in every bite. - Fruit Salad
A refreshing fruit salad adds a light contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies, making it a lovely addition to any dessert table. - Cheese Platter
Include a selection of cheeses like brie or sharp cheddar for an elegant pairing that balances sweet and savory tastes. - Spiced Hot Apple Cider
Sip on warm spiced apple cider while enjoying your cookies; its aromatic spices complement the flavors beautifully. - Mini Cheesecakes
Serve mini cheesecakes alongside for an indulgent dessert experience; their creamy texture pairs well with the texture of the cookies. - Chocolate Fondue
Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip pieces of cookie into melted chocolate for an extra decadent treat. - Caramel Sauce
Drizzle warm caramel sauce over your cookies or serve it on the side for dipping; this sweet addition makes every bite more delightful!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking cookies can be tricky, especially when trying to achieve the perfect texture and flavor. Here are some common mistakes to avoid while making your Special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies.
- Incorrect Butter Temperature: Using cold butter can lead to dense cookies. Make sure your butter is softened at room temperature for optimal creaming.
- Skipping the Chilling Step: If you don’t chill the dough, your cookies may spread too much. Chilling helps maintain their shape while baking.
- Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix just until combined after adding flour and dry ingredients.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Accurate measurements are key for baking success. Use measuring cups and spoons correctly, and spoon flour into the cup instead of scooping it directly.
- Using Stale Ingredients: Stale baking powder or old chocolate chips can affect cookie quality. Check the freshness of your ingredients before starting.
- Ignoring Oven Temperature: An oven that’s too hot or cold can ruin your cookies. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if necessary.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator.
- Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.
Freezing Special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
- They can be stored for up to three months; just ensure they are sealed tightly.
Reheating Special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for 5-7 minutes for fresh warmth.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a soft texture.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some frequently asked questions answered.
Can I customize my Special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies?
Yes! You can add different mix-ins like nuts, dried fruits, or even swap M&M’s for chocolate chunks.
How do I make these cookies chewy?
For chewier cookies, slightly underbake them and let them cool on the baking sheet before transferring them.
Can I use gluten-free flour?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these delicious cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
How long do Special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies last up to three days at room temperature or longer if frozen.
Final Thoughts
These Special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies are not only delightful but also versatile! Their sweet and salty combination makes them perfect for any holiday gathering. Feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Try this recipe today and enjoy a festive treat that everyone will love!
Special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies
Special occasion Kitchen Sink Cookies are a fun and festive treat that combines sweet and salty flavors, making them the perfect addition to your holiday baking. These cookies feature a delightful mix of colorful M&M’s, crunchy pretzels, and potato chips, creating a unique texture and taste that everyone will love. Not only are they easy to make, but they also make great gifts or party snacks. Bake a batch for family gatherings or holiday parties and watch them disappear quickly!
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup salted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup red and green M&M’s
- 1/3 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup pretzel pieces
- 1/3 cup potato chip pieces
- 2 tbsp red and green jimmies
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg yolks and vanilla to the mixture; beat until well combined.
- Gradually incorporate the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until just combined.
- Gently fold in the M&M’s, white chocolate chips, pretzels, potato chips, and jimmies.
- Scoop out dough into approximately 20 balls and place them on prepared baking sheets about two inches apart.
- Optionally add extra mix-ins on top for decoration before baking.
- Bake for approximately 10–12 minutes until lightly golden around the edges.
- Allow cooling on the baking sheets for five minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (40g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before scooping. Feel free to customize your mix-ins with other candies or nuts based on personal preferences.