I used to think Christmas baking had to be elaborate. One year, I ambitiously planned a dozen different holiday treats: gingerbread men, sugar cookies with royal icing, fudge, truffles—you name it. My kitchen looked like a powdered sugar war zone, and I was so exhausted I didn’t even enjoy the end result. I’m not what you’d call a ‘good baker’—my smoke alarm has seen more action than my mixer. Sure, those fancy cookies are gorgeous, but if I need a degree in art to frost them, I’m out.

That’s when I realized: it’s not about the variety, it’s about the joy. So, I made a change. I decided to stick with the one thing I know best—chocolate chip cookies. They’re easy, reliable, and, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a warm, gooey chocolate chip cookie?

Now, every December, I whip up batch after batch of my classic cookies. The best part? I know the recipe by heart, so there’s no second-guessing or stressing over missed ingredients. The kids love to help scoop the dough (and sneak a few chocolate chips), and the house smells like pure magic while they bake.

These cookies have become more than just a dessert—they’re a tradition. We bake them together, eat them fresh from the oven, and share them with friends and neighbors. And in a season that can feel so hectic, sticking to something simple—something familiar—makes life a little sweeter.

By making life a little easier, I even managed to bake for our church’s bake sale we do each year.

Here’s my tried-and-true Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe:

• 1 cup butter, softened

• 1 cup white sugar

• 1 cup packed brown sugar

• 2 eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. Cream together butter and sugars, add eggs and vanilla, then mix in dry ingredients.

3. Stir in chocolate chips, scoop onto baking sheet, and bake for 10-12 minutes. (I find they need a little longer when you first start baking - a little less time after you have done a few batches.)

Tips to Make It Festive

• Add red and green sprinkles or holiday M&Ms to the dough.

• Use white chocolate chips and crushed candy canes for a peppermint twist.

• Share the cookies as DIY gifts by wrapping them in cute bags with ribbons!

• Wrap up with a personal wish for a sweet and simple holiday season.

I love scrolling through my feed this time of year, watching my friends post their beautifully decorated, elaborate Christmas cookies. It’s like an edible art gallery! But for me, I’ve realized that it’s okay to keep life simple. Instead of trying to do it all, I’ve embraced the idea of finding a favorite recipe and sticking with it.