As the holiday season approaches, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with the warm scent of baking. There’s nothing quite like the nostalgic fragrance of cookies mingling with the crisp scent of peppermint, transporting me back to festive gatherings with family and friends. I recently discovered a delightful twist on a classic treat—Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies. These gems blend rich dark chocolate with the refreshing crunch of crushed candy canes, making them the perfect complement to a cup of hot cocoa or coffee.
After a busy week filled with fast food takeout, I craved something homemade that felt cozy and indulgent. With just a handful of simple ingredients—like butter, sugar, and of course, that vibrant splash of minty freshness—these cookies come together effortlessly. Not only are they a festive addition to any holiday platter, but they are also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, delighting both young and old alike. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into creating a batch of these irresistible Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies!
Why are Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies a must-have?
Deliciously festive: These cookies combine rich dark chocolate with the minty crunch of candy canes for a holiday flavor explosion.
Easy to make: With just a few simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you’ll have a batch ready in no time.
Versatile treat: Perfect for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or cozy nights in, they cater to everyone’s sweet tooth.
Nostalgic aroma: The enchanting scent will fill your home, sparking warm memories and holiday cheer.
Impressive yet approachable: Your guests will be wowed, yet you won’t break a sweat making them!
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
• Unsalted butter – adds richness and enhances the cookie’s flavor.
• Light brown sugar – keeps the cookies chewy and adds a hint of molasses.
• Granulated sugar – balances sweetness and contributes to a nice cookie texture.
• Large egg – acts as a binder and helps achieve a soft, tender cookie.
• Vanilla extract – infuses warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
For the Dry Ingredients
• All-purpose flour – provides structure without being too dense.
• Baking soda – leavens the cookies, giving them a light and fluffy texture.
• Fine sea salt – enhances sweetness and balances the flavors perfectly.
For the Mix-Ins
• Chopped dark chocolate bar or chocolate chips – brings depth and richness to each bite.
• Crushed candy canes – adds a delightful peppermint crunch that makes these cookies festive.
Enjoy these Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies as a holiday favorite or an everyday treat!
How to Make Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
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Cream together the butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar using a mixer. Beat for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy—this creates that delightful texture we love!
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Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract gently into the creamed mixture. Mix just until combined, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. This ensures everything is evenly blended for fabulous flavor.
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Combine the dry ingredients by adding the flour, baking soda, and fine sea salt to the bowl. Mix until almost combined—keeping some flour visible helps prevent overmixing for tender cookies.
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Fold in the chopped dark chocolate and crushed candy canes, gently mixing just until you see no more flour. The colorful speckles of candy canes should stand out, promising that festive crunch in every bite!
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Scoop the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the centers look slightly underbaked.
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Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step helps them set perfectly while still being warm and gooey inside.
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch of indulgence!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days ahead. Just mix the ingredients as instructed, then wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container before refrigerating. To maintain the cookies’ delightful texture, it’s best to chill the dough rather than freeze it, which can cause textural changes. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and place the dough on a baking sheet—no need to thaw—and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have freshly baked cookies ready in no time, offering delicious holiday cheer with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture and deliciousness.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Ensure they are in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: Freeze the cookies individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a quick warm-up.
Reheating: To enjoy your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies warm, simply pop them in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in an oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.
What to Serve with Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies?
There’s something magical about sweet treats paired with comforting sides that can turn any gathering into a memorable event.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm, velvety drink with marshmallows enhances the minty flavor for a complete festive experience. Picture cozying up with each bite and sip on a winter evening.
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Whipped Cream: This cloud-like topping adds creaminess that perfectly balances the cookie’s crunch. A dollop on your plate makes for a delightful duo!
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Festive Fruit Salad: A mix of vibrant seasonal fruits adds freshness and acidity, cutting through the sweetness of the cookies while making the plate pop with color.
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Spiced Chai Latte: This aromatic, spiced tea elevates the peppermint experience, bringing warmth and complexity that will warm your heart on chilly days.
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Caramel Sauce Dip: A drizzle of sweet and buttery caramel complements the deep chocolate, adding a luscious twist to each bite. Who can resist dipping when there’s caramel involved?
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cold, this classic pairing melds beautifully with the cookies. Picture yourself enjoying a warm cookie topped with melting ice cream—it’s pure bliss!
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Minty Mojito: For adults, a refreshing mojito with mint echoes the cookie’s peppermint essence, making it a fun, spirited choice!
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Chocolate Mint Cake: Layered and indulgent, this dessert extends the flavor journey and serves as a show-stopping addition to any gathering.
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Peppermint Tea: Steep a cup of this herbal delight to cleanse the palate and enhance the festive spirit, rounding off your dessert with a refreshing finish.
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies for a unique twist that excites your taste buds!
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Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the sweet chocolate and mint flavors.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring a deliciously satisfying cookie for those avoiding gluten.
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Dark Chocolate Lovers: Swap dark chocolate with white chocolate chips for an extra sweet treat that beautifully contrasts with the minty freshness.
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Mint Extract Boost: Replace vanilla with an additional 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract for an intensified mint flavor that will leave your guests wanting more!
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Vegan Option: Use coconut oil instead of butter, flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute, and dairy-free chocolate chips for a plant-based version that everyone can enjoy.
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Sandwich Cookies: Make a fun twist by turning these into sandwich cookies! Add a layer of mint frosting or chocolate ganache between two cookies for an indulgent treat.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into your dough for a surprising, spicy contrast to the sweet and minty flavors.
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Holiday Sprinkles: Before baking, add festive sprinkles on top of the cookies for a cheerful and colorful finish that’s perfect for any celebration!
Expert Tips for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Butter Matters: Use room temperature butter for better creaming with sugars, resulting in a lighter cookie texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Spacing is Key: Ensure cookies are spaced 2 inches apart on the baking sheet to allow for proper spreading during baking.
Chill the Dough: If time permits, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps to intensify the flavors and firm up the dough for thicker cookies.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your cookies; pulling them out when they look slightly underbaked will result in a soft, chewy center that perfectly contrasts with the crunchy candy canes.
Make these tips your own secret weapon when baking Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies!
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of candy canes should I use for these cookies?
Absolutely! I recommend using classic peppermint candy canes for the best flavor, but any variety will work. Just make sure to crush them into small pieces—ideally smaller than a pea—so they evenly distribute in your dough and add that delightful crunch throughout the cookies.
How should I store my Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, they can be kept in the fridge for up to a week. Just ensure the container is well-sealed to prevent them from drying out!
Can I freeze Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up. This makes them perfect for unexpected guests!
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to a few factors. One common reason is using warm butter instead of room temperature. Be sure to use butter that’s softened, not melted. Additionally, chilling your dough for 30 minutes before baking can help the cookies hold their shape better.
Are these cookies safe for pets?
No, these Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies are not safe for pets. Ingredients like chocolate and sugar can be harmful to them. If you want to share holiday treats with your furry friends, consider baking a special pet-friendly cookie instead!
What if I have a gluten allergy?
If you need a gluten-free option for these cookies, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Many brands offer a blend that works well in recipes just like these. Be sure to check for a certified gluten-free label to ensure safety for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance!
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies That Wow Every Holiday Guest
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream together the butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar using a mixer. Beat for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract gently into the creamed mixture. Mix just until combined.
- Combine the dry ingredients by adding the flour, baking soda, and fine sea salt to the bowl. Mix until almost combined.
- Fold in the chopped dark chocolate and crushed candy canes, gently mixing just until no more flour is visible.
- Scoop the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
- Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.