If you’ve been on the hunt for a festive treat that perfectly blends the cool freshness of peppermint with the rich indulgence of chocolate, look no further than this delightful Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe. These cookies are a true crowd-pleaser, boasting a tender, chewy texture dotted with melting chocolate chips and the invigorating crunch of crushed peppermint candies. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just because, this recipe brings a guaranteed smile and that irresistible holiday spirit right into your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is the first step to baking these irresistible cookies. Each component plays a crucial role—from the creamy butter that gives them a soft texture to the peppermint extract that adds that distinctive coolness.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and a tender crumb; make sure it’s softened for easy creaming.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with cookie spreading.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar: Brings moisture and a subtle caramel note.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure.
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract: Deepens the overall flavor for a well-rounded taste.
- 1 tsp peppermint extract: The star flavor that gives these cookies their trademark refreshing zing.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The base that holds everything together.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just right.
- ¼ tsp salt: Enhances all the sweetness and balances flavors.
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts into gooey pockets of chocolate delight.
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional): Adds an extra layer of chocolaty goodness and texture.
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes: Gives a festive crunch and peppermint bursts throughout the cookies.
How to Make Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat—this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes and is key to achieving that perfect cookie texture.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is incorporated before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts for that magical flavor combination.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined so you don’t overwork the dough.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Peppermint
Gently stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, the optional mini chocolate chips, and the crushed peppermint candies. Each addictive bite will have delightful bursts of chocolate and peppermint.
Step 6: Scoop and Shape the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place on your prepared sheet at least 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading. Then, flatten each ball gently with the back of a spoon or your fingers.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges turn a gorgeous golden brown while the centers remain soft and chewy. This contrast is what makes each cookie simply irresistible.
Step 8: Cool and Add a Festive Finish
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. If you want to add an extra holiday touch, sprinkle some more crushed peppermint on top while the cookies are still warm.
How to Serve Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
These cookies shine on their own, but adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate can elevate their appearance and flavor, making them perfect for gift-giving or parties.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy snack. These pairings complement the minty chocolate flavors beautifully and are great for sharing moments with loved ones.
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe: Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the cookies on a festive platter surrounded by whole candy canes or peppermint sticks. You can also sandwich a scoop of peppermint ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent dessert twist that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your cookies fresh by placing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll maintain their chewy, minty goodness for up to a week, making them perfect for enjoying throughout the holidays.
Freezing
You can freeze baked cookies or cookie dough balls. For baked cookies, layer parchment paper between them in a freezer-safe container. For dough, freeze shaped balls on a tray then transfer to a sealed bag to bake fresh whenever cravings hit.
Reheating
Warm your cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes. This softens them up and revives their fresh-from-the-oven charm, especially when paired with a warm drink.
FAQs
Can I substitute peppermint extract with something else?
While peppermint extract gives these cookies their signature flavor, you could try spearmint extract for a milder mint flavor or leave it out for classic chocolate chip cookies, but the unique festive twist won’t be quite the same.
Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate offers a richer, slightly more bitter contrast that works wonderfully with the sweet peppermint, so feel free to customize according to your taste preference.
Is it necessary to use both granulated and brown sugar?
Yes, the combination contributes to the perfect balance of chewiness and sweetness. Brown sugar adds moisture and a slight caramel flavor, while granulated sugar helps with spreading and crispness.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, chill your dough for 15-30 minutes if needed, and space the cookies properly on the baking sheet. These steps help maintain their shape during baking.
Can I make these cookies vegan or gluten-free?
With some ingredient swaps like vegan butter, flax eggs, and gluten-free flour blends, you can adapt this Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe to suit dietary needs, though texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the combination of peppermint and chocolate, especially in a cookie that’s soft, chewy, and packed with festive cheer. This Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is one to treasure, whether for holiday gatherings or to brighten an ordinary day. I can’t wait for you to bake them and share the joy – your kitchen will smell like holiday heaven!
Print
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in the festive flavors of these Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies, combining classic chocolate chips with refreshing peppermint extract and crushed candies for a perfect holiday treat. These soft, chewy cookies offer a delightful blend of sweetness and minty freshness, ideal for sharing during the holiday season or as a special everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
Add-ins
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional, for extra chocolatey goodness)
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes. This step aerates the dough, giving the cookies a tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Extracts: Beat in the eggs one at a time to fully incorporate them, then add the vanilla and peppermint extracts. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined, ensuring even flavor distribution.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can lead to tough cookies.
- Incorporate Chocolate and Peppermint: Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, mini chocolate chips if using, and crushed peppermint candies, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough for bursts of chocolate and mint in every bite.
- Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll each into a ball. Arrange the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Flatten Dough Balls: Gently press down each dough ball with the back of a spoon or your fingers to flatten them slightly, which helps them bake evenly and develop a pleasing shape.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn golden brown while the centers remain soft and slightly underbaked for a chewy texture.
- Cool Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes post-baking to firm up. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, which prevents sogginess and preserves crisp edges.
- Optional Topping: Once cooled, optionally sprinkle additional crushed peppermint candies on top to enhance the festive appearance and add extra peppermint flavor.
Notes
- For best results, ensure butter is softened, not melted, to achieve the ideal cookie texture.
- If mini chocolate chips are unavailable, extra semi-sweet chocolate chips can be used.
- Crushed peppermint candies can be made by placing candy canes or peppermints in a plastic bag and gently pounding with a rolling pin.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to one week.
- These cookies freeze well; freeze baked cookies up to 3 months or dough balls for convenient baking later.
