If you’re looking to sprinkle some magic onto your holiday baking or simply want to brighten up an ordinary day, this Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe is a total game-changer. Soft, chewy cookies infused with refreshing peppermint and studded with rich chocolate chips and chunks create a flavor symphony that is both nostalgic and delightfully fresh. These cookies are the perfect balance of cool mint and sweet chocolate, promising smiles with every bite and making them an instant favorite for any season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to cookie perfection. Each element in this Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe plays a unique role in creating the ideal texture, flavor, and festive look, from the creamy butter to the zingy peppermint extract.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup or 2 sticks): Softened butter gives your cookies that perfectly tender and rich base.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Adds sweetness and helps achieve a slight crispness around the edges.
- Light brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Brings a subtle molasses flavor and moisture for chewiness.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors with warm, comforting notes.
- Peppermint extract (1 teaspoon): The star ingredient delivering that fresh, festive mintiness.
- Large eggs (2): Bind everything together and add moisture for soft, luscious cookies.
- All-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups): Provides the structure for your cookies to hold their perfect shape.
- Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps your cookies rise just right for soft edges.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and elevates the chocolate and peppermint flavors.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1 cup): Classic melty pockets of chocolate throughout.
- Chopped dark chocolate or chunks (1 cup): Adds a deep, rich chocolate contrast in texture and taste.
- Crushed peppermint candies (1/2 cup): Sprinkles of festive crunch and that unmistakable peppermint zing.
How to Make Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Workspace
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. Preparing your space sets the stage for a smooth baking experience.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy—this usually takes about 3 minutes. This step is crucial because this fluffy base helps create the tender yet chewy texture we’re after.
Step 3: Add Extracts and Eggs
Mix in the vanilla and peppermint extracts carefully to infuse your dough with flavor. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. The eggs add moisture and help bind the dough, giving your cookies that perfect soft bite.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk your all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt together. Gradually add this dry mix into your wet ingredients, stirring just until combined—overmixing can toughen cookies, so be gentle here!
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate and Peppermint
This is where this Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe really shines. Gently fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips, chopped dark chocolate, and crushed peppermint candies until evenly spread throughout your dough. The combination gives each cookie a wonderful texture and burst of flavor.
Step 6: Scoop and Arrange Dough
Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Make sure to space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. This careful spacing means you’ll get nicely shaped, evenly baked cookies.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Bake in your preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Look for lightly browned edges with centers that are still soft but set—this mistake-proof timing keeps the cookies chewy and tender inside. Avoid over-baking to preserve that delightful texture.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps them firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Then, get ready for pure deliciousness!
How to Serve Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few crushed peppermint candies or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top of cooled cookies to enhance the festivity and visual appeal. A small drizzle of melted white chocolate adds an elegant, sweet finishing touch that pairs perfectly with the mint and chocolate.
Side Dishes
Pair these peppermint chocolate chip cookies with a warm cup of cocoa, peppermint tea, or even a glass of cold milk. The creamy beverage helps balance the intense peppermint-chocolate flavors and creates a cozy treat combo that’s perfect anytime.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gift-giving, stack the cookies neatly and tie them with a festive ribbon. Or, sandwich two cookies around a scoop of peppermint ice cream for an indulgent dessert. You can even crumble them over vanilla or chocolate pudding for a refreshing holiday twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This keeps their texture soft and flavors fresh, making sure your next cookie craving is just a reach away.
Freezing
You can freeze baked cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag once firm. They keep beautifully for up to 3 months, so you always have a peppermint-chocolate treat on hand.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven warmth and softness, microwave cookies for about 10 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes. This little trick revives their melty deliciousness amazingly well.
FAQs
Can I substitute peppermint extract for peppermint oil?
While you can substitute peppermint oil, it’s much stronger than extract, so use it sparingly—start with a quarter of the amount and adjust according to taste. Peppermint extract is easier to control and blends smoothly in cookie dough.
What if I don’t have crushed peppermint candies?
If crushed peppermint candies aren’t available, you can finely chop candy canes or peppermint sticks. Alternatively, a teaspoon of peppermint extract can enhance the flavor, but the candy adds a delightful crunch that’s worth including if possible.
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with milk chocolate chips, white chocolate chunks, or even a mix. This recipe is quite forgiving and customizing your chocolate type can tailor the cookies to your personal preference.
How do I make my cookies chewier?
Using more brown sugar and slightly underbaking the cookies will yield a chewier texture. Also, chilling the dough before baking helps control spread and enhances chewiness.
Are these cookies suitable for freezing dough?
Yes! The cookie dough freezes well. Scoop the dough balls onto a tray, freeze until firm, then transfer to a container. When ready to bake, pop them directly into the oven, adding a couple of extra minutes if needed.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about homemade cookies loaded with peppermint and chocolate, and this Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe captures that magic perfectly. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a party, or just because, these cookies promise to fill your kitchen with comforting aromas and your heart with joy. Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become a beloved classic in your baking repertoire!
