Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies – Easy & Delicious Recipe

Peppermint chocolate chip cookies are the perfect holiday treat, blending the classic, comforting flavors of chocolate chip cookies with the refreshing taste of peppermint. These festive cookies are packed with crushed candy canes, rich chocolate chips, and a soft, chewy texture that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or looking for a cozy winter snack, peppermint chocolate chip cookies are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Peppermint chocolate chip cookies offer a delightful combination of sweet and minty flavors, making them a fun and festive variation of the beloved chocolate chip cookie. The addition of crushed candy canes gives these cookies a unique crunch and a burst of peppermint flavor that makes them perfect for the holiday season. They’re quick to prepare, family-friendly, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. With a soft, chewy texture and an irresistible aroma, these cookies are a must-bake for any holiday cookie platter.

Ingredients for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

To make peppermint chocolate chip cookies, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create the perfect blend of minty and chocolatey goodness. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Butter: Adds richness and tenderness to the cookies.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cookies and contributes to their soft texture.
• Brown Sugar: Gives the cookies a deeper flavor and chewy texture.
• Eggs: Helps bind the ingredients together and provides moisture.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the cookies.
• Flour: The base of the dough, providing structure and texture.
• Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and become light and fluffy.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
• Peppermint Extract: Gives the cookies their refreshing mint flavor.
• Candy Cane Pieces: Crushed candy canes add a delightful crunch and peppermint kick.
• Chocolate Chips: Classic semi-sweet chocolate chips for that perfect chocolatey bite.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you’re looking for a twist or need substitutions due to dietary restrictions, here are a few suggestions:

• Gluten-Free Flour: Swap regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Dairy-Free Butter: Use a dairy-free butter substitute if you’re following a dairy-free diet.
• Vegan Chocolate Chips: For a fully vegan option, choose dairy-free chocolate chips.
• Mini Chocolate Chips: For a more subtle chocolate flavor, use mini chocolate chips.
• Peppermint Oil: If you can’t find peppermint extract, peppermint oil works as a substitute (just use sparingly).

Step-by-Step Instructions for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Follow these simple steps to bake your peppermint chocolate chip cookies:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Cream together the butter, sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract and continue mixing until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Stir in the peppermint extract, chocolate chips, and crushed candy canes until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 tablespoon per cookie. Space them 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Be careful not to overbake, as the cookies will continue to set once they cool.
8. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Here are a few tips to ensure your peppermint chocolate chip cookies turn out perfectly:

• Chill the dough: If you have time, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape better during baking.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
• Use fresh peppermint extract: The flavor of peppermint extract can fade over time, so use a fresh bottle for the best minty flavor.
• Check for doneness: The cookies will continue to bake on the hot sheet once you remove them from the oven, so take them out when the edges are golden but the centers are still soft.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Peppermint chocolate chip cookies can be enjoyed on their own, but here are some great pairing ideas and variations to enhance your cookie experience:

• Serve with hot cocoa: These cookies are a perfect accompaniment to a warm cup of hot cocoa or peppermint tea.
• Add a drizzle of white chocolate: For an extra indulgent treat, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top of the cooled cookies.
• Make them gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free version of these cookies.
• Store the cookies properly: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the dough to bake later. Simply scoop the dough into balls and freeze until solid, then store in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months.

Peppermint chocolate chip cookies are a holiday classic that combines the sweetness of chocolate with the cool, refreshing taste of peppermint. With their chewy texture, festive flavor, and simple ingredients, they are sure to become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire. Whether for a Christmas cookie exchange or a cozy family treat, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.

Conclusion: Why Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Are a Must-Bake

Peppermint chocolate chip cookies bring the perfect blend of flavors to your holiday baking. The crisp, minty crunch of candy canes mixed with the rich, velvety chocolate chips creates a delicious contrast that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re sharing them with family or gifting them to friends, these cookies are sure to become a beloved tradition. With their easy preparation and delightful taste, they truly capture the festive spirit of the season. Bake a batch today, and you’ll experience just how irresistible these cookies are!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

More Relevant Recipes

• No-Bake Peppermint Cheesecake Bites: These no-bake cheesecake bites offer a creamy, minty filling with a crisp, sweet base. They’re a simple yet indulgent treat, perfect for the holiday season, and a great complement to the minty goodness of peppermint chocolate chip cookies.
• Peppermint Swirl Fudge: This easy-to-make fudge combines the festive flavors of peppermint and chocolate in a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth treat. It’s a perfect holiday gift or addition to a cookie platter alongside peppermint chocolate chip cookies.
• Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies: These cookies bring the warm, spiced flavors of gingerbread and the creamy richness of cheesecake into one decadent treat. They offer a flavorful alternative to peppermint chocolate chip cookies while keeping the holiday spirit alive with festive flavors.

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