STEP 1: PREHEAT THE OVEN AND PREPARE BAKING SHEETS

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and develop a beautiful golden-brown color. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent the cookies from sticking.

STEP 2: MIX DRY INGREDIENTS

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients will give the cookies their structure and help them rise evenly. Set the bowl aside.

STEP 3: CREAM BUTTER AND SUGARS

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer or stand mixer. Start on low speed and gradually increase to medium-high. Cream the mixture for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is important because it incorporates air into the dough, helping the cookies to be soft and chewy.

STEP 4: ADD EGGS AND VANILLA

Once the butter and sugars are creamed, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until combined. The mixture should be smooth and light.

STEP 5: COMBINE DRY AND WET INGREDIENTS

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.

STEP 6: FOLD IN CHOCOLATE CHIPS AND OPTIONAL MIX-INS

Using a spatula, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, white chocolate chips (if using), and any optional mix-ins like crushed candy canes or festive sprinkles. These additions will not only enhance the flavor of the cookies but also make them extra festive for the holiday season.

STEP 7: SCOOP AND FORM DOUGH BALLS

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop out dough and roll it into balls about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This gives the cookies room to spread while baking.

STEP 8: BAKE THE COOKIES

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them during the last couple of minutes to ensure they don’t overbake.

STEP 9: COOL AND ENJOY

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps prevent them from becoming too soft or breaking apart while still warm.