Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies: A Delightful Treat
Indulging in a warm, gooey mint chocolate chip cookie is a simple pleasure that can brighten up any day. The captivating aroma of freshly baked cookies filling your kitchen, combined with the irresistible flavor of mint mingling with rich chocolate, makes these cookies a favorite for both young and old. Perfect for holidays, casual gatherings, or a sweet treat at home, these cookies are easy to prepare and even easier to devour. Let’s dive into the details of making these delightful mint chocolate chip cookies!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 25-27 minutes
- Servings: About 24 cookies
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 150
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 80mg
Why Make This Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Mint chocolate chip cookies bring together the best of two worlds: the refreshingly cool flavor of mint and the rich sweetness of chocolate. They’re a crowd-pleasing dessert that fits perfectly in gift boxes or served at a festive gathering. These cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also add a hint of sophistication with the minty twist, making them ideal for any occasion. Plus, they’re easy to whip up, which means you can have freshly baked cookies ready in under half an hour!
How to Make Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies
## Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mint chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (optional)
## Directions:
### Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
### Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. This process should take about 2-3 minutes and will create a fluffy base for your cookie dough. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for an added depth of flavor.
### Step 3: Combining Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend this dry mixture into the creamed butter mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
### Step 4: Adding Chocolate and Peppermint
Fold in the mint chocolate chips and, if desired, crushed peppermint candies. The crushed candies will add a delightful crunch and extra mintiness to your cookies. Once mixed, drop dough by rounded tablespoons onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about two inches apart.
### Step 5: Baking
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned. A slight soft center is okay as they will continue to firm up while cooling.
### Step 6: Cooling
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Enjoy the delightful smell wafting through your home!
How to Serve Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them by serving alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. They also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of cocoa or coffee.
How to Store Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Alternatively, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Expert Tips for Perfect Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for the best mixing results.
- Chilling Dough: For thicker cookies, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- Chocolate Chips: Use a mix of semi-sweet and mint chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Baking Sheets: Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
- Don’t Overbake: Remove cookies slightly underbaked for a chewy texture.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Mint Swirl: Add one tablespoon of peppermint extract for a stronger mint flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
- Colorful Festivity: Add green food coloring to the dough for a fun, festive appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to 1/4 teaspoon to balance the flavors. -
What if I don’t have mint chocolate chips?
You can substitute them with regular chocolate chips and add an extra teaspoon of peppermint extract for flavor. -
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. -
How do I know when my cookies are done?
Check for slight browning at the edges; the centers may look soft but will firm up upon cooling. -
Is it possible to make gluten-free mint chocolate chip cookies?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.
Conclusion
Mint chocolate chip cookies are a delightful treat that combines irresistible flavors with a simple preparation process. Whether you’re baking for a festive occasion or just wanting something sweet at home, these cookies are sure to impress. Get your ingredients ready, fire up the oven, and enjoy the blissful aroma and taste of mint chocolate chip cookies fresh out of the oven! Happy baking!
Print
Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in warm, gooey mint chocolate chip cookies, perfect for any occasion with their delightful mint and chocolate flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mint chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend into the creamed mixture.
- Fold in the mint chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies.
- Drop dough by rounded tablespoons onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly browned.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Notes
For thicker cookies, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes prior to baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
