The holidays have a way of wrapping us in warmth, bringing out flavors that make the heart sing. The delightful scent of peppermint wafts through the air, reminding me of childhood days spent building snowmen and sipping hot cocoa by the fire. That essence inspired me to whip up these Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies, a treat that brings a touch of nostalgia to every bite.
Imagine breaking into a soft, chewy cookie, where the creamy chocolate chips meet crunchy bits of candy cane, each mouthful capturing the festive spirit. Not only are they a joy to bake, but they also make wonderful gifts or sweet additions to any holiday gathering. Best of all, this recipe combines the ease of making cookies with a wow factor that will impress anyone lucky enough to snag one. So, let’s dive in and create a dessert that’ll dazzle your taste buds and fill your home with holiday cheer!
Why will you love Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Irresistible flavors come together in these cookies, as the rich chocolate meets the refreshing crunch of candy cane. Simple preparation means even novice bakers can whip these up with ease. Endless versatility allows you to customize by playing with different chocolate combinations. Perfect for sharing, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering, making them ideal for gifts or celebrations. Plus, their delightful aroma will fill your kitchen with festive warmth! If you’re looking for more cozy holiday treats, check out my delightful holiday cookie collection for more inspiration.
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create these festive delights!
For the Cookie Dough
• ½ cup unsalted butter – softened for easy creaming with sugar.
• ½ cup sugar – balances sweetness with the peppermint flavor.
• ⅓ cup light brown sugar – packed firmly for that extra depth of flavor.
• 1 ½ tsp vanilla – adds a warm, inviting aroma to every bite.
• 1 large egg – binds the ingredients together for a perfect cookie.
• 1 ½ cups flour – provides structure for those chewy cookie bites.
• ½ tsp sea salt – enhances the sweetness with a subtle touch of flavor.
• ½ tsp baking soda – helps the cookies rise for a delightful texture.
For the Chocolate and Candy
• ¾ cup white chocolate chips – creamy and sweet, they melt in your mouth.
• ¾ cup dark or regular chocolate chips – the perfect contrast to the white chocolate.
• 5 candy canes – crushed into fine pieces for a festive crunch in each cookie.
Get ready to embrace the holiday spirit with these delicious Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies!
How to Make Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
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Cream Together
Begin by creaming the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar in a mixing bowl using either a hand or stand mixer. Mix for at least 3-4 minutes until it’s beautifully creamy and fluffy. -
Add Key Ingredients
Add in the vanilla extract and the large egg. Beat this mixture for about 20 seconds until fully incorporated and blended together smoothly. -
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sea salt, and baking soda. This step ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour. -
Combine Mixtures
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a soft dough that comes together into a cohesive ball. -
Fold in Chocolate and Peppermint
Stir in the white chocolate chips, dark or regular chocolate chips, and crushed candy canes. This will give your cookies that delightful festive flair and delicious flavor. -
Chill the Dough
Chill the dough for about 30-60 minutes by sealing it tightly. You can chill it for up to 3 days. If it’s been more than 2 hours, let it sit out for 10-15 minutes before baking. -
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies will bake evenly and turn golden brown, creating that perfect texture. -
Shape Cookies
Roll the dough into balls or use a cookie scoop to portion the dough. Line them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space in between for spreading. -
Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 9-12 minutes or until the cookies look slightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as every oven can be different. -
Shape if Needed
Once they come out of the oven, you can use a circular cookie cutter around each cookie to give them a nice, uniform shape if needed while they are still warm. -
Cool Down
Allow the cookies to cool for several minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a cooling rack. This will help them firm up and maintain their chewy center.
Optional: Drizzle some melted chocolate on top for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Indulging in these festive treats opens up a world of delightful pairings that will elevate your cookie experience.
- Rich Hot Chocolate: Enhances the peppermint flavor while providing a warm, cozy drink to sip alongside your cookies.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: A luscious, tangy spread that complements the sweetness of the cookies, making for a delightful combination.
For a great finish to any holiday gathering, pair the cookies with hot chocolate and cream cheese frosting. The rich depth of the hot chocolate contrasts deliciously with the sweet crunch of the cookies while the frosting adds an indulgent twist that’s hard to resist.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A smooth, creamy addition that balances the cookies’ sweetness and makes for a delightful flavor contrast.
- Peppermint Tea: Refreshing and fragrant, this herbal drink echoes the peppermint in the cookies, creating a harmonious pairing.
- Spiced Apple Cider: A warm, spiced beverage that brings seasonal warmth and richness, perfect for winter celebrations.
- Nutty Fruit Salad: Light, refreshing, and textured, it adds a burst of fresh flavor that pairs beautifully with the cookies.
- Chocolate Milkshake: Decadent and nostalgic, the creamy goodness complements the cookies’ chewy texture perfectly.
- Eggnog: For a festive twist, pair the cookies with this rich, creamy drink that adds holiday cheer to your dessert table.
With these pairings, your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies will shine even brighter, creating memorable moments filled with joy and sweetness!
Expert Tips for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading during baking, ensuring chewy cookies. Don’t skip this step!
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Mixing Matters: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to achieve a tender texture.
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Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cookie removal and to prevent sticking.
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Bake in Batches: Bake one tray at a time to ensure even cooking. If using multiple trays, rotate halfway through.
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Watch the Oven: Check cookies at the lower end of the baking time; cookies will continue to cook on the sheet once removed.
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Finishing Touches: For extra flair, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top right after baking while they’re still warm. Enjoy your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies!
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these cookies your own with these delightful twists!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend for a deliciously inclusive treat.
- Nutty Flavor: Add ½ cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and nutty richness.
- Chocolate Lovers: Use all dark chocolate chips instead of a mix for a richer chocolate experience.
- Minty Boost: Swap out vanilla for mint extract to amplify the refreshing peppermint flavor in every bite.
- Less Sugar: Decrease the sugar by ¼ cup and use unsweetened cocoa powder in the dough for a less sweet, chocolatey cookie.
- Spicy Peppermint: Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a sweet and spicy twist.
- Stuffed Cookies: Consider sandwiching a piece of peppermint patty or chocolate in the center of the dough for a delightful surprise!
- Frosted Treats: Top cooled cookies with a drizzle of white chocolate or a peppermint frosting for an elegant finish.
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies are a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance for a hassle-free baking experience. Simply follow the recipe up to the chilling step, and then seal the dough tightly in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap before refrigerating. This will help maintain its quality and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes if it’s been chilling for longer than 2 hours. Then, shape the cookies and bake as instructed for delicious, festive treats that will fill your home with warm holiday vibes!
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This will help them stay soft and moist.
Fridge: For extra freshness, store cookies in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Just ensure they’re in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying again!
Reheating: To bring back that freshly baked taste, reheat cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or pop them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes. Enjoy your delectable Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies!
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of candy canes should I use?
Absolutely! You can use regular peppermint candy canes for a classic flavor. If you prefer a more intense mint taste, look for extra strong peppermint candy canes. Just be sure they’re finely crushed so they blend well into the cookies!
How should I store the cookies?
For best results, store your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them wonderfully soft and chewy, ideal for satisfying your sweet cravings anytime.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, indeed! To freeze the dough, scoop portions into balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just add a couple of minutes to the baking time!
What if my cookies turn out too flat?
If your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies flatten out, it could be due to the dough being too warm or not enough flour. Try chilling the dough for a bit longer next time, and ensure you’re measuring the flour accurately by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off.
Are these cookies suitable for pets?
No, it’s best to keep these cookies away from your pets! The chocolate and sugar can be harmful to them, so ensure all baked goodies are stored securely out of their reach.
Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. You can also use dairy-free chocolate chips and butter alternatives to make this recipe vegan-friendly. Enjoy getting creative while maintaining the festive flavor of these delightful Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies!
Irresistible Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies for Joyful Munching
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream together the softened butter, sugar, and brown sugar in a mixing bowl using a hand or stand mixer for 3-4 minutes until creamy and fluffy.
- Add in the vanilla extract and the large egg, then beat for about 20 seconds until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sea salt, and baking soda to evenly distribute the leavening agent.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Fold in the white chocolate chips, dark chocolate chips, and crushed candy canes.
- Chill the dough tightly for 30-60 minutes, or up to 3 days; if it's been more than 2 hours, let it sit out for 10-15 minutes before baking.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll the dough into balls or use a cookie scoop, placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 9-12 minutes or until slightly golden.
- If necessary, use a circular cookie cutter to shape the cookies while they are still warm.
- Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for several minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Optionally, drizzle some melted chocolate on top for an extra treat!