Name: Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
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 chocolate chips; 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or peppermint baking chips

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Perfect for the holidays or anytime you crave a sweet treat, Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies blend the classic taste of chocolate chip cookies with refreshing peppermint. The combination of rich chocolate and cool peppermint creates a delightful flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing. These cookies are not only easy to make but also add a festive touch to any gathering.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 150
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 100mg

Why Make This Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

These Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful twist on the traditional cookie, perfect for celebrating the holiday season or simply indulging in a delicious treat any time of the year. The inviting aroma of baking cookies fills your kitchen, while the combination of soft, chewy texture and sweet minty flavor makes them impossible to resist. Their festive appearance, often adorned with red and green peppermint bits, also makes them an ideal gift for friends and family.

How to Make Peppermint 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 chocolate chips
1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or peppermint baking chips

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.

Step 2: Mixing

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the dough, giving the cookies a light texture. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring they are well mixed before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, allowing its sweet aroma to infuse the batter.

Step 3: Cooking

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend this dry mixture into the creamed mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough. Gently fold in the chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Step 4: Finishing

Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. The wait will be worth it as the cookies firm up slightly and develop their juicy texture.

How to Serve Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Serve these delightful cookies warm with a glass of milk, hot cocoa, or a cup of your favorite tea. They make a fabulous addition to holiday cookie trays and are perfect for an afternoon treat with family and friends. You can also drizzle some melted chocolate on top for an extra touch of indulgence.

How to Store Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.

Expert Tips for Perfect Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Butter Temperature: Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easier creaming. Softened but not melted butter will create the best texture.
Choosing Peppermint: You can use either crushed peppermint candies for a crunchier texture or peppermint baking chips for a softer, melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Dough Chilling: For thicker cookies, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading.
Even Baking: Rotate baking sheets halfway through baking for even cooking.
Test for Doneness: Cookies may look slightly underbaked when you take them out. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Delicious Variations

Substituted Chips: Try swapping out regular chocolate chips for white chocolate chips or dark chocolate to create your own unique flavor combinations.
Nut Additions: Fold in chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
Minty Frosting: After cooling, top cookies with a light mint frosting for a sweet finishing touch.
Dipped in Chocolate: Dip half of the cookie in melted chocolate and sprinkle with additional crushed peppermint for an elegant look.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Ensure the other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What can I replace the eggs with for a vegan version?
For a vegan alternative, use flax eggs or applesauce. Combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg.
How can I make the cookies chewy rather than crispy?
Bake for a shorter time and avoid overmixing the dough. Using more brown sugar than white sugar can also increase chewiness.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Portion the dough into individual balls, place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to the cooking time.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the edges are golden brown, and the centers look slightly underbaked.

Conclusion

Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that captures the joy and essence of the season. Their combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a cookie that’s perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply enjoying yourself. Whether you’re baking for a festive occasion or just wanting something sweet, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every delicious bite!