Kitchen Sink Cookies

Kitchen sink cookies are a delightful treat that often include a variety of ingredients, hence the name "kitchen sink," as they can incorporate various mix-ins you have on hand. These cookies are a great way to use up leftover ingredients and create a unique and flavorful combination. Here's a basic recipe to guide you in making delicious kitchen sink cookies:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1 cup chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans)
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1/2 cup dried fruit (e.g., raisins, cranberries)
• 1/2 cup crushed pretzels or crushed potato chips (optional, for a salty-sweet twist)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
6. Stir in the rolled oats, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, dried fruit, and any other mix-ins you desire. This is where you can get creative and add ingredients like crushed pretzels or potato chips for a unique twist.
7. Drop rounded tablespoons or use a cookie scoop to portion out the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them a few inches apart to allow for spreading.
8. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges. The centers may still appear slightly soft, but they will firm up as the cookies cool.
9. Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
10. Enjoy your delicious kitchen sink cookies! They are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a sweet treat anytime.

Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences and what you have available in your pantry. Kitchen sink cookies are a fun and versatile treat that can incorporate a wide range of flavors and textures. Get creative and have fun with your mix-ins!