Milk n Cookies anyone

Baking Cookies on Christmas: A Sweet Return to Childhood Nostalgia

There’s something magical about the scent of cookies baking in the oven during Christmas—especially if it distracts you from the pile of unwrapped gifts, the overflowing holiday to-do list, and the fact that your "quick run to the store" for sprinkles somehow cost $100. But let’s set aside the chaos for a moment and talk about the timeless joy of baking cookies, a tradition that brings a glimmer of childhood innocence back into our adult lives. (Even if the innocence is slightly marred by the extra glass of wine you’ll need after cleaning the kitchen.)

The Magic of Christmas Past

Remember when Christmas was simple? When cookies magically appeared on platters and the biggest challenge was not getting caught sneaking one before dinner? Those were the days. Now, as adults, we are the ones making the magic happen—or at least trying to. Recreating those nostalgic cookie-baking moments is less about achieving Pinterest perfection and more about keeping your inner child from screaming, "Why is adulting so hard?!"

It’s okay, though. Because despite the stress, there’s something undeniably comforting about rolling out dough and dusting it with flour. For a moment, you’re transported back to those simpler times. (And if you’re not, maybe a little holiday eggnog will help.)

Nostalgia and Tradition: Anchors in a Busy World

Traditions like cookie baking are our anchors in a stormy sea of holiday madness. They remind us of the good old days, back when our biggest December worry was whether Santa would bring us the ri

Let’s face it: the idea of baking cookies is often more appealing than the reality. The counter is a mess, the dough is too sticky, and there’s always one batch that burns while you’re arguing over the proper use of a cookie cutter. But that’s part of the charm, right? It’s less about Martha Stewart-level results and more about finding joy in the chaos.

Pro tip: When your cookies come out looking like they’ve survived a natural disaster, call them "rustic." No one can argue with rustic.

Keeping the Glimmer Alive

As adults, we need these moments of silliness and sweetness—both metaphorical and literal. Baking cookies reminds us that amidst the stress, the bills, and the emails marked "URGENT" (on December 24th, no less), magic still exists. And if that magic happens to come with a heaping dose of sugar, all the better.

So go ahead: pour yourself a holiday cocktail, throw on your coziest socks, and channel your inner child. Roll out the dough, slap on some frosting, and pretend you didn’t just eat half the sprinkles straight from the container. It's Christmas, and calories don’t count if the cookies are shaped like snowmen. (That’s science, right?)

Final Thought

At the end of the day, baking cookies is about more than sugar and butter. It’s about keeping traditions alive, making memories, and reminding yourself that adulthood doesn’t have to mean losing your sense of wonder—or your sense of humor. Just be sure to double the recipe. One batch is never enough when you’re battling nostalgia and stress-eating your way through December.

RECIPE DROP! Happy Holidays

Banana Pudding Cookies: A Soft, Sweet Delight

These cookies combine the nostalgic flavors of banana pudding with the irresistible texture of a soft, chewy cookie. They’re perfect for sharing—or hoarding for yourself. (No judgment!) Here’s your recipe and walkthrough to make these delightful treats.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 stick) unsalted butter, softened

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1 cup brown sugar, packed

• 2 large egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 small ripe banana, mashed (about 1/3 cup) optional

• 1 (3.4 oz) package instant banana pudding mix

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup white chocolate chips

• 1/2 cup crushed Nilla Wafers

Tools Needed

• Mixing bowls

• Hand or stand mixer

• Baking sheets

• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats

• Cooling rack

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Cream the Butter and SugarsIn a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).

2. Add the Wet IngredientsBeat in the egg, vanilla extract, and mashed banana until fully combined.

3. Incorporate the Pudding MixAdd the banana pudding mix (dry; don’t prepare it) and mix until smooth. This gives the cookies their signature banana flavor!

4. Combine the Dry IngredientsIn a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

5. Add the Mix-InsFold in the white chocolate chips and crushed Nilla Wafers for that extra banana pudding texture and crunch.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances their flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven and Prep the Baking Sheet

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 4: Shape and Bake

1. Scoop the Dough

2. Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion the dough into balls (about 1.5 inches in diameter). Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.

3. Bake

   Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers still look slightly soft. Do not overbake!

4. Cool

   Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Enjoy!

These cookies are delicious warm, but they’re even better after resting for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days—if they last that long!

Tips for Success

• Use a ripe banana for the best flavor. The more speckled and browner, the better!

• If you love a little extra crunch, sprinkle crushed Nilla Wafers on top of the cookie dough balls before baking.

• Want to get fancy? Drizzle melted white chocolate over cooled cookies for an extra touch of sweetness.

Now go forth and bake yourself into banana pudding cookie bliss!