Step 1: Preheat Oven u0026 Prep Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter u0026 Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy and smooth (2–3 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet u0026 Dry Ingredients: Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips u0026 Candy Cane Pieces: Fold in chocolate chips and 1/4 cup crushed candy canes. Reserve the remaining 1/4 cup of candy canes to sprinkle on top before baking.

Step 6: Scoop u0026 Shape Cookies: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop dough onto prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between cookies. Sprinkle reserved candy cane pieces on top of each cookie.

Step 7: Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft. Remove from oven and allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.