If you’re on the hunt for a cookie that perfectly blends festive flair with classic comfort, this Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine soft, buttery cookie dough loaded with rich semi-sweet chocolate chips and a refreshing hint of peppermint that dances on your taste buds. These cookies are the perfect treat for a cozy winter afternoon or sharing joy around the holidays. Whenever I bake these, the irresistible aroma fills the kitchen, and I can’t wait to share them with friends and family. Trust me, once you try this Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe, it’ll become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is how straightforward and essential the ingredients are, yet each plays a crucial role in delivering that perfect balance of texture, taste, and festive color. From the creamy butter that adds tenderness to the burst of peppermint that brightens every bite, each component is carefully chosen to make your cookies unforgettable.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Use softened butter for a creamy texture that helps the cookies stay tender and chewy.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps cookies spread just right.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar: Brings a rich, molasses undertone and extra moisture for chewiness.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder and gives structure to your cookies.
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors with warmth and depth.
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour: The base that lends body and shape to your cookies.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps cookies rise just enough to be fluffy without losing chew.
- 0.5 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and amplifies flavor complexity.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Provides melty pockets of chocolate that make each bite a delight.
- 0.5 teaspoon peppermint extract: Opt for pure peppermint extract for the freshest, most vibrant minty punch.
- 0.5 cup crushed peppermint candies (optional): Adds a lovely crunch and festive finish for extra color and texture.
How to Make Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
Start by beating the softened unsalted butter with both the granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This simple step introduces air into your dough which helps create a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s characteristic of the best cookies.
Step 2: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Peppermint Extract
Next, mix in the eggs one at a time, making sure they’re fully incorporated before adding the next. Then pour in the pure vanilla and peppermint extracts. These extracts layer in a lovely warmth and a refreshing minty aroma that bring this Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe to life in a way you’ll adore.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough. This step ensures that your cookies hold together perfectly with just the right softness.
Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips so they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. This careful folding preserves the fluffiness while making sure each cookie gets chocolatey goodness in every bite.
Step 5: Chill, Scoop, and Add Peppermint Candies
For the best texture and flavor, chill your cookie dough in the fridge for at least an hour. When you’re ready to bake, scoop even-sized dollops onto a baking sheet, and if you like, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top for an extra festive crunch and pop of color.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This lets the cookies set perfectly while staying chewy.
How to Serve Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch, dust your warm cookies with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or add a drizzle of melted white chocolate. Both options complement the peppermint and chocolate flavors beautifully, making your cookies look as delightful as they taste.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a mug of hot cocoa. The cool or warm drinks amplify the cozy, festive vibes and balance the sweetness with creamy richness. For adults, peppermint mocha is a decadent accompaniment that echoes the minty delight of these cookies.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the cookies in a festive tin lined with parchment paper and tie the lid with a red or green ribbon for gifting. Or arrange them on a platter with fresh peppermint sprigs and candy canes to create an inviting holiday dessert table centerpiece. Presentation really elevates the joy of sharing this Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to five days, perfect for snacking or sharing during the week.
Freezing
If you want to make these ahead of time, dough scooped into balls can be frozen on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag. Alternatively, freeze baked cookies layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Both methods help preserve that wonderful peppermint and chocolate flavor for up to three months.
Reheating
To enjoy your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe fresh out of the oven after storage, pop them in a warm oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes. This gentle heat refreshes the cookie’s soft texture and melts the chocolate chips anew. Just be careful not to overheat so they don’t dry out.
FAQs
Can I use peppermint oil instead of peppermint extract?
Peppermint oil is much stronger than peppermint extract, so if you choose to use it, start with a very small amount—about half or a quarter of the extract quantity—and adjust to taste. Pure peppermint extract is recommended for a balanced flavor without overpowering the cookies.
What can I substitute for crushed peppermint candies?
If you don’t have crushed peppermint candies, you could sprinkle chopped candy canes, peppermint bark, or even mini marshmallows for a fun twist. These alternatives maintain the festive element and add their own unique texture.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that’s designed for baking. Be sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for the best texture. Your cookies will be just as tasty with that minty chocolate goodness.
How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?
Chilling your dough before baking is key to preventing cookies from spreading too thin. Also, avoid using butter that is too soft or melted. The chilled dough holds its shape better in the oven, giving you thicker, chewier cookies.
Can I add nuts to this Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe?
Yes! Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts add a wonderful crunch and complement the chocolate and peppermint flavors nicely. Just fold in about half a cup of your preferred nut along with the chocolate chips for added texture and flavor complexity.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a cookie that brings warmth, sweetness, and a refreshing pop of mint, this Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is one you simply cannot miss. Baking these treats is such a joyful experience, and sharing them makes every occasion feel a little more special. I encourage you to give them a try and watch how quickly they become a favorite for you and everyone lucky enough to enjoy them!
Print
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies combine the classic chewy texture of chocolate chip cookies with a refreshing peppermint twist, perfect for the holiday season or any time you want a festive treat. With a balance of sweet chocolate chips and cool peppermint flavor, these cookies are sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 0.5 teaspoon peppermint extract
Topping (Optional)
- 0.5 cup crushed peppermint candies
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to ensure the cookies don’t stick.
- Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, creating a creamy base for your cookie dough.
- Add eggs and extracts: Beat in the two large eggs one at a time, then add the pure vanilla extract and peppermint extract. Mix thoroughly until fully combined to infuse the dough with flavor.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasoning.
- Mix dry ingredients into wet: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated to avoid overworking the dough, which could result in tough cookies.
- Fold in chocolate chips: Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
- Shape the cookies: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Add crushed peppermint candies (optional): Lightly press the crushed peppermint candies on top of each cookie dough ball if using for that extra festive crunch and minty flavor.
- Bake the cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers appear set but still soft.
- Cool the cookies: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This helps them firm up to the perfect chewy texture.
Notes
- Make sure to use softened butter for the best creamy texture in your cookie dough.
- Pure peppermint extract is preferred to achieve the most authentic peppermint flavor.
- The crushed peppermint candies on top are optional but add a nice festive crunch and aroma.
- Do not overmix your cookie dough once the flour is added to keep cookies tender.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.
