11 Chicago Windy City Christmas Cookie Recipes From Deep Dish Traditions

Classic Chicago Chocolate Chip Cookies

Classic Chicago Chocolate Chip Cookies are a beloved treat known for their perfect combination of chewy centers and slightly crispy edges. This classic recipe uses simple ingredients to create a batch of delicious, gooey chocolate chip cookies that will fill your home with the aroma of baking goodness. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored for later, these cookies are certain to delight anyone with a sweet tooth.

Ingredients

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This guarantees that the cookies bake evenly and develop that perfect golden color.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and season the flour, leading to a more consistent cookie dough.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes on medium speed.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture into the butter and sugar mixture. Mix on a low speed until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
6. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Using a spatula or a wooden spoon, gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Scoop and Place on Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
8. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.
9. Cool the Cookies: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Enjoy: Once cooled, enjoy your Classic Chicago Chocolate Chip Cookies with a glass of milk, or store them in an airtight container for later indulgence. Happy baking!

Sale

Fullstar The Original Pro Chopper - Vegetable Chopper and Spiralizer, Food Chopper with Container,...

• The Original Pro Chopper - Our superstar veggie slicer has been creating waves on TikTok! Simple to use,...
• Easy Meal Prep with Rust-Resistant Blades - Our vegetable chopper is perfect for anyone who wants to eat...
• 5-Star Design - The soft-grip TPU handle ensures controlled chopping, while the non-skid rubber base...

$49.99 −$20.00 $29.99

Buy on Amazon

Spicy Windy City Gingerbread Men

Spicy Windy City Gingerbread Men are a festive twist on the classic gingerbread cookie, featuring a blend of warm spices that create a delightful flavor profile. These charming, spiced figures are perfect for decorating during the holiday season and make for a fun baking activity with family and friends. The combination of molasses and spices offers a deep, rich taste, while their cheerful shapes bring joy to any Christmas gathering.

Ingredients

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees that your cookies will bake evenly.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside for later use.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: To the creamed mixture, add the dark molasses, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix on low speed until all the ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can result in tough cookies.
6. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps firm up the dough, making it easier to roll out and cut into shapes.
7. Roll Out Dough: After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into two portions. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough to about ¼-inch thickness.
8. Cut Out Gingerbread Men: Use cookie cutters to cut out gingerbread men shapes from the rolled dough. Place the shapes onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each one to allow for expansion.
9. Bake the Cookies: Bake the gingerbread men in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the centers are still slightly soft.
10. Cool and Decorate: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once completely cooled, feel free to decorate with icing, candies, or any other festive toppings you desire. Enjoy your Spicy Windy City Gingerbread Men!

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy...

• Makes Everything Simple : Just forget your bagged cheese! Only turn the handle for several times and get...
• Premium Material : All parts of the rotary cheese grater are made of food grade ABS material, no BPA. The...
• Three Option Grater : The parmesan cheese grater finishes food preparation with slicing, shredding and...

$24.97

Buy on Amazon

Deep-Dish Peanut Butter Blossoms

Deep-Dish Peanut Butter Blossoms are a delightful twist on the classic peanut butter cookie, combining the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with a gooey chocolate kiss in the center. These cookies are baked in a deeper form, resulting in a soft and chewy texture that makes them perfect for sharing or enjoying with a glass of milk during the Christmas season. They bring warmth and nostalgia to holiday gatherings and are sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees that your cookies bake perfectly.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed. Set aside to add to the wet ingredients later.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Peanut Butter and Wet Ingredients: Mix in the creamy peanut butter until well combined. Then, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is smooth.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the peanut butter mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to over-mix.
6. Form the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place the dough balls onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Flatten and Bake: Use your palm to gently flatten each dough ball slightly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned but the centers are still soft.
8. Add Chocolate Kisses: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. The heat from the cookie will help the kisses to melt slightly.
9. Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve and Enjoy: These Deep-Dish Peanut Butter Blossoms are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for several days. Enjoy the delicious combination of peanut butter and chocolate!

Chef Preserve Compact Vacuum Sealer for Food (Vacuum Sealer Machine + 30 Reusable Vacuum Bags)...

• 💰 REDUCE WASTE AND SAVE MONEY: Chef Preserve keeps FOOD FRESH 5 TIMES LONGER than non-vacuum storage...
• ✅ POWERFUL, QUICK & EASY TO USE: Simply press the button to start. The device vacuum seals a bag in 5...
• ♻️ REUSABLE & RESEALABLE BAGS: Chef Preserve comes with dishwasher, freezer, refrigerator, and...

$99.00

Buy on Amazon

Chicago-Style Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

Chicago-Style Oatmeal Raisin Cookies are a perfect balance of chewy oats and sweet raisins, enriched with a burst of cinnamon spice. Known for their generous size and delightful taste, these cookies are a beloved treat during the holiday season. The crispy edges and soft centers create a comforting texture that pairs well with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa, making them an ideal addition to any Chicago Christmas cookie assortment.

Ingredients

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees that your cookies bake uniformly.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Set this mixture aside to incorporate later with the wet ingredients.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the Egg and Vanilla: Once the sugar and butter are well blended, add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture, beating until fully combined and smooth.
5. Mix in Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined, making sure not to over-mix.
6. Stir in Oats and Raisins: Using a spatula or wooden spoon, fold in the old-fashioned oats and raisins. If you’re adding walnuts, mix them in as well for an extra crunch.
7. Form the Cookies: Using a large cookie scoop, portion out balls of dough and place them on a lined baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
8. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still soft. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
9. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your warm Chicago-Style Oatmeal Raisin Cookies as they fill your kitchen with delightful aromas and joy during this festive season!

Sale

Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatile Cookware for...

• Generous Capacity: 7-quart slow cooker that comfortably serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast
• Cooking Flexibility: High or low slow cooking settings, with convenient warm function for ideal serving...
• Convenient: Set it and forget it feature enables you to cook while at work or performing daily tasks

$59.99 −$24.00 $35.99

Buy on Amazon

Festive Sugar Cookies With Chicago Flair

Festive Sugar Cookies With Chicago Flair are the perfect addition to your holiday cookie tray. These cookies are soft and buttery, with a touch of almond extract that adds a distinctive Chicago twist, setting them apart from traditional sugar cookies. Dressed with colorful holiday sprinkles or decorated with royal icing, these treats embody the festive spirit and are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering or cookie exchange.

Ingredients

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s hot and ready for uniform baking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents for a consistent texture.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Egg and Extracts: Add the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the butter mixture. Beat on low speed until fully combined and smooth.
5. Mix in Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the cookies tough.
6. Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough and roll it into balls. Place them on a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Decorate with Sprinkles: If desired, gently press holiday sprinkles onto the tops of the cookie dough balls for a festive touch.
8. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set. Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid over-baking.
9. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

These Festive Sugar Cookies With Chicago Flair are soft, delicious, and overflowing with holiday cheer, making them a delightful treat for all. Enjoy!

Sale

Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers BPA Free Airtight Lids Ideal for Lunch Meal Prep &...

• 100% Leak-proof: Guaranteed no-spill seal and secure latches
• Crystal-clear Tritan Built: Stain-resistant and odor-resistant material for a clear view of contents
• Lightweight & Sturdy: Easy to carry, yet durable for everyday use

$39.99 −$12.00 $27.99

Buy on Amazon

Cinnamon Roll Cookie Bars

Cinnamon Roll Cookie Bars are a delightful fusion of soft and chewy cookie bars infused with the warm flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar, reminiscent of freshly baked cinnamon rolls. These cookie bars are perfect for the holiday season or any occasion where you want to impress family and friends with minimal effort. Topped with a smooth cream cheese glaze, they are sure to become a favorite treat.

Ingredients

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the cookie bars.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat on low speed until well combined and smooth.
5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the flour mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; you want the dough to remain soft.
6. Make Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon and additional sugar to create the cinnamon sugar filling.
7. Prepare for Baking: Spread half of the cookie dough into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out evenly. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top, leaving a small space around the edges.
8. Add Remaining Dough: Carefully drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough over the cinnamon filling. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the top without disturbing the cinnamon layer too much.
9. Bake the Cookie Bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Cool the Bars: After baking, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Make Cream Cheese Glaze: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed.
12. Ice the Cookie Bars: Once the cookie bars have cooled completely, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the top. Cut into squares and serve, enjoying the wonderful flavors of cinnamon rolls in a cookie format!

Etekcity Food Kitchen Scale, Digital Grams and Ounces for Weight Loss, Baking, Cooking, Keto and...

• 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗪𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴: Supports 5 units...
• 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀: Accurately weighs up to 11 lb/5 kg with 1 g...
• 𝗦𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲 & 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁: The small and sleek scale is a perfect fit for...

$13.99

Buy on Amazon

Bueller’s Buttery Snickerdoodles

Bueller’s Buttery Snickerdoodles are a classic cookie that combines a buttery base with a hint of cinnamon and sugar, creating a soft and chewy treat that’s perfect for any holiday gathering or cozy afternoon. These cookies possess a delightful crackly surface and a nostalgic taste that has made them a beloved favorite among cookie lovers. Whether enjoyed with a glass of milk or as a sweet addition to your holiday cookie platter, these snickerdoodles will surely please everyone.

Ingredients

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Set aside to allow the dry ingredients to mix evenly.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
5. Mix in Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to over-mix the dough.
6. Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix the ground cinnamon and additional sugar together. Set this mixture aside to coat the cookies.
7. Shape the Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, take a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Roll each ball in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
8. Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden brown, but the centers are still soft.
10. Cool: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your freshly baked Bueller’s Buttery Snickerdoodles with a warm beverage or share them with friends and family!

Sale

Alpha Grillers Meat Thermometer Digital - Instant Read Food Thermometer for Cooking and Grilling...

• Instant Read Food Thermometer | Our instant read thermometer features a temperature probe and advanced,...
• Multi-Use | From bbq thermometer to baking thermometer, our digital food thermometer for cooking is...
• Easy-Read Digital Thermometer For Cooking | Large instant thermometer dial with bright blue backlight...

$19.99 −$6.41 $13.58

Buy on Amazon

Windy City Meringue Kisses

Windy City Meringue Kisses are light, airy cookies that melt in your mouth, making them an elegant addition to any holiday dessert table. These delightful treats are made primarily from whipped egg whites and sugar, which create a crisp outer shell and a soft, chewy center. They can be jazzed up with a splash of vanilla or almond extract, and they’re often enjoyed as a sweet snack or a charming gift when elegantly packaged.

Ingredients

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper, creating a non-stick surface for the meringue kisses.
2. Whip the Egg Whites: In a clean, dry mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the egg whites on medium-low speed until they become frothy, about 1-2 minutes.
3. Add Cream of Tartar: Once frothy, add the cream of tartar to the egg whites, and continue beating at medium speed. This will help stabilize the meringue.
4. Incorporate Sugar Gradually: While the mixer is running, gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time. This allows the sugar to dissolve properly and helps achieve a glossy meringue. Increase the mixer speed to high once all the sugar is added.
5. Achieve Stiff Peaks: Continue mixing until stiff peaks form and the meringue looks glossy and smooth. This may take about 5-7 minutes.
6. Add Vanilla and Food Coloring: Once the meringue is ready, gently fold in the vanilla extract. If you’d like to add color, divide the meringue into bowls and mix in your chosen food coloring.
7. Pipe the Meringue: Transfer the meringue mixture into piping bags fitted with a star tip. Pipe small circles on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between them as they won’t spread much.
8. Bake: Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours. The meringues should be dry to the touch and easily lift off the parchment paper once baked. If they’re not ready, continue baking until they are completely crisp.
9. Cool Completely: After baking, turn off the oven and leave the meringue kisses inside until they cool completely. This will help prevent cracking.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Once completely cooled, elegantly arrange the Windy City Meringue Kisses on a platter or package them up for gifts. They can be enjoyed immediately or stored in an airtight container for several days.

Sale

Home Hero 54-Piece Stainless Steel Kitchen Utensils Set - Heat-Resistant Nonstick Silicone &...

• Versatile 54-Piece Collection: Elevate your kitchen with the Home Hero 54-Piece Kitchen Utensil Set, a...
• Durable and Long-Lasting: Crafted from premium stainless steel, these kitchen utensils are designed to...
• Perfect Holiday Gift: Delight your loved ones with this kitchen utensils gift set this festive season....

$87.99 −$20.01 $67.98

Buy on Amazon

Peppermint Bark Cookies

Peppermint Bark Cookies are a festive and delightful treat that combine the rich flavors of chocolate with the invigorating taste of peppermint. These cookies are soft and chewy, generously topped with a layer of creamy white chocolate and crushed peppermint candies, making them a favorite for holiday gatherings and Christmas cookie exchanges.

Ingredients

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Add Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Scoop the Dough: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded balls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie (they will spread slightly).
8. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers look slightly underbaked. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Prepare the Topping: While the cookies are cooling, melt the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until fully melted and smooth.
10. Top with White Chocolate and Peppermint: Once the cookies are completely cooled, drizzle or spread the melted white chocolate over the top of each cookie. Immediately sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies on top of the white chocolate before it sets.
11. Allow to Set: Let the cookies sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to harden before serving or storing.

Enjoy your Peppermint Bark Cookies as a delightful addition to your holiday festivities!

Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw, BPA-Free Sports Water Bottle, Great...

• 24-ounce insulated stainless-steel water bottle with a FreeSip spout and push-button lid with lock
• Patented FreeSip spout designed for either sipping upright through the built-in straw or tilting back to...
• Protective push-to-open lid keeps spout clean; convenient carry loop doubles as a lock

$29.99

Buy on Amazon

Choco-Cranberry Chicago Crunch Cookies

Choco-Cranberry Chicago Crunch Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that bring together the rich flavor of chocolate, the tartness of cranberries, and a satisfying crunch. These cookies are perfect for sharing during festive gatherings or as a special indulgence to savor yourself. With their chewy texture and vibrant colors, they add a cheerful touch to any Christmas cookie platter.

Ingredients

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together using an electric mixer. Continue mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Crack in the egg and add the vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until everything is well combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
6. Fold in Additions: Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, rolled oats, and shredded coconut into the cookie dough, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
7. Scoop the Dough: Use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon to drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking.
8. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers appear set. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy these tasty Choco-Cranberry Chicago Crunch Cookies throughout the holiday season!

Italian Rainbow Cookies Inspired by the Windy City

Italian Rainbow Cookies, also known as Venetian cookies, are a festive treat that layers almond-flavored cake with vibrant colors, typically in bright green, pink, and yellow, and sandwiched with a smooth layer of apricot or raspberry jam. These cookies are perfect for holiday celebrations and bring a splash of color to any dessert table. Easy to slice and serve, they offer a delightful combination of flavors that are certain to impress your friends and family.

Ingredients

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line three 9×13-inch baking pans with parchment paper, making sure the paper hangs over the sides for easy removal later.
2. Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Eggs and Flavoring: Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the butter-sugar mixture, incorporating it until just combined.
6. Divide the Batter: Divide the batter evenly into three bowls. Add a few drops of food coloring—green in one bowl, pink in another, and yellow in the last. Mix each bowl until the colors are well incorporated.
7. Spread in Pans: Spread each colored batter evenly into the prepared baking pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops and ascertain they are level.
8. Bake the Layers: Place the baking pans in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cake layers are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the layers to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Assemble the Cookies: Once the layers are fully cooled, spread a thin layer of jam on top of the yellow layer, then stack the pink layer on top, followed by another layer of jam, and finally the green layer. Press down gently to ensure all layers stick together.
10. Chill: Wrap the stacked layers tightly in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up.
11. Coat with Chocolate: Once the layers are chilled and firm, trim the edges if needed, then pour the melted semisweet chocolate over the top, spreading it evenly. You can also dip the sides in chocolate for a full coating.
12. Slice and Serve: Allow the chocolate to set (you can place them in the fridge to speed this up), then using a sharp knife, slice the cookies into rectangular pieces. Serve and enjoy your colorful and festive Italian Rainbow Cookies!