Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies have a way of instantly transporting me back to cozy Christmases at my grandparents’ house. The scent of peppermint and warm chocolate filling the air always felt like a hug. I remember watching my grandma carefully decorate each one, her hands dusted with flour. These are truly the best peppermint chocolate chip cookies because they strike that perfect balance – not too minty, not too sweet, just pure holiday joy in every bite. Making these homemade peppermint chocolate chip cookies has become my favorite tradition, and I can’t wait for you to experience that same festive magic. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies are an absolute dream for so many reasons:
- The perfect balance of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates an unforgettable taste.
- You can whip up a batch of these easy peppermint chocolate chip cookies in under an hour, making them perfect for a quick treat.
- They’re wonderfully budget-friendly, using common pantry staples for delicious results.
- These cookies are a hit with everyone, from kids to adults, making them a surefire family favorite.
- The chewy texture with slightly crisp edges is simply irresistible, offering a delightful mouthfeel.
- As easy peppermint chocolate chip cookies, they’re incredibly straightforward to make, even for beginner bakers.
- They add a festive touch to any holiday gathering or cookie exchange.
- Enjoy the delightful aroma as they bake, filling your home with holiday cheer.
Ingredients for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
To make this amazing peppermint chocolate chip cookie recipe, you’ll need these simple ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – this is the base of our cookie dough
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – helps the cookies rise and spread
- 1 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances flavor
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – crucial for a tender cookie texture
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar – adds sweetness and helps with browning
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed – contributes moisture and a chewier texture
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances overall flavor
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract – this is where the signature minty flavor comes from!
- 2 large eggs – bind the ingredients together
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – for that classic chocolatey goodness
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (for topping, optional) – adds an extra festive crunch and peppermint punch
How to Make Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Let’s dive into making the most delicious peppermint chocolate chip cookies! Follow these simple steps and you’ll have a batch of festive treats in no time. The aroma alone will get you in the holiday spirit!
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup after you make peppermint chocolate chip cookies.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon salt. Setting this aside ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the 1 cup unsalted butter, softened, with the 3/4 cup granulated sugar and 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creaming process incorporates air, which is key for cookie texture.
- Step 4: Beat in the 2 large eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon peppermint extract until smooth. The peppermint extract is what gives these their signature flavor!
- Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients from Step 2 to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined – be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
- Step 6: Gently fold in the 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips. I love seeing those dark chips scattered throughout the dough; it promises a delightful chocolatey bite in every cookie.
- Step 7: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches between each cookie to allow for spreading as they bake.
- Step 8: For an extra festive touch, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or candy canes on top of each dough ball. This not only looks pretty but adds a wonderful minty crunch.
- Step 9: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set. Keep an eye on them; you want them chewy, not crispy.
- Step 10: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This allows them to firm up before you transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your perfectly made peppermint chocolate chip cookies!
Pro Tips for the Best Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Want to elevate your cookie game? I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve to ensure your peppermint chocolate chip cookies are absolutely divine!
- For that perfect chewy texture, make sure your butter is softened, not melted.
- Don’t overmix the dough once you add the flour; this keeps the cookies tender.
- Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking helps prevent them from spreading too much.
- Use a good quality peppermint extract – it really makes a difference in the flavor!
What’s the secret to perfect Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies?
The secret to truly perfect chocolate peppermint cookies lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Using both granulated and brown sugar creates a wonderful chewiness, while the right amount of peppermint extract provides that signature zing without being overpowering. For more baking inspiration, check out our recipes.
Can I make Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before scooping and baking.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies?
A common pitfall is overmixing, which can make your peppermint chocolate chip cookies tough. Another issue is overbaking; this is often why are my peppermint chocolate chip cookies flat and dry. Watch for lightly golden edges and slightly soft centers before removing them from the oven. For more tips on baking, you can refer to resources on proper ingredient substitution.
Best Ways to Serve Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
These festive cookies are wonderful on their own, but I love pairing them with a cold glass of milk or a warm mug of hot chocolate. For a truly delightful holiday treat, consider serving them alongside other classic mint chocolate chip cookies or a rich chocolate cake. They also make a fantastic addition to a cookie platter, offering that perfect burst of peppermint and chocolate to complement creamier desserts or fruit salads. If you’re looking for other festive treats, you might enjoy our caramel brownie cheesecake recipe.
Nutrition Facts for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Let’s talk about what goes into these delicious treats! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per cookie:
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your peppermint chocolate chip cookie recipe.
How to Store and Reheat Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Once your delicious peppermint chocolate chip cookies have cooled completely, it’s time to think about storing them. Proper storage is key to keeping that perfect texture and preventing them from going stale. Once they’re fully cooled, place them in an airtight container. You can layer them between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking, especially if they have a lot of chips or toppings. These cookies will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days, which is great for enjoying them throughout the week. For longer storage, these peppermint chocolate cookies with chips freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Just wrap them well in plastic wrap and then a layer of foil to protect them from freezer burn.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen or refrigerated cookies, reheating is simple. For a quick thaw, just leave them at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. If you want that freshly baked warmth, pop them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-7 minutes. This gentle warming will bring back that wonderful aroma and slightly crisp edge, making them taste just like they did fresh out of the oven! For more dessert ideas, explore our frozen banana snickers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
What are peppermint chocolate chip cookies?
Peppermint chocolate chip cookies are a delightful variation of the classic chocolate chip cookie, infused with the refreshing flavor of peppermint extract and often topped with crushed peppermint candies. They’re a popular treat, especially during the holiday season, offering a festive twist that combines the comforting sweetness of chocolate with the invigorating coolness of mint.
Can I freeze the dough for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the peppermint chocolate chip cookie dough for up to 3 months. Scoop the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This is a great way to have homemade cookies ready anytime, similar to how you might prepare turkey meatloaf ahead of time.
Why are my Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies so flat?
If your peppermint chip cookies are turning out flat, it’s often due to a few common issues. Using melted butter instead of softened butter can cause excessive spreading. Also, overbeating the butter and sugar mixture can incorporate too much air, leading to a flatter cookie. Ensure your baking soda is fresh, as old baking soda loses its leavening power. For more baking tips, you can consult resources on baking tips for perfect cookies.
What are the best chocolate chips to use in these cookies?
For the best flavor in your peppermint chocolate chip cookies, semi-sweet chocolate chips are a classic choice. However, you can absolutely experiment with dark chocolate chips for a richer, less sweet cookie, or even white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. Some people even like to use mint-flavored chocolate chips for an extra minty kick!
Variations of Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic, there are so many fun ways to switch up these delightful cookies! These variations are perfect for adding a unique touch to your baking, whether you’re preparing for a specific occasion or just want to try something new. They truly are wonderful for any Christmas peppermint chocolate chip cookies exchange. You might also enjoy our Korean BBQ meatballs for a different flavor experience.
- Gluten-Free Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies: Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free baking blend. You might need to adjust the baking time slightly, but the flavor will be just as amazing.
- White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: Swap the semi-sweet chips for white chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier flavor profile that pairs beautifully with peppermint. These are especially festive for Holiday peppermint chocolate chip cookies.
- Spicy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a subtle warmth that complements the chocolate and peppermint.
- Vegan Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies: Use vegan butter, a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 mins), and vegan chocolate chips for a plant-based version that’s just as delicious.
Peppermint Chocolate Cookies: 10 Festive Bites
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy these delightful Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies, a festive holiday classic that combines rich chocolate with invigorating peppermint for an irresistible flavor. These cookies are easy to make, perfect for any skill level, and offer a wonderfully chewy texture with slightly crisp edges. They are ideal for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or as a sweet treat anytime.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla and peppermint extracts. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between cookies.
- Optional: Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or candy canes on top.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a more intense peppermint flavor, consider infusing fresh mint leaves in the butter.
- Measure ingredients accurately for the best texture and flavor.
- Rotate baking sheets midway through baking for even cooking.
- Chilling the dough for 30-60 minutes can improve texture and prevent spreading.
- Experiment with different chocolate types like dark or white chocolate.
- Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder for a mocha twist.
- Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
- For extra peppermint flavor, add crushed peppermint candies into the dough.
- Layer with chopped peppermint bark for a peppermint bark cookie variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Sugar: N/A
- Sodium: N/A
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: N/A
- Unsaturated Fat: N/A
- Trans Fat: N/A
- Carbohydrates: N/A
- Fiber: N/A
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: N/A
