Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the magic of the holiday season, then these Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies are just what you need! Filled with rich dark chocolate and crunchy candy canes, this recipe is a festive favorite in my home. Every bite is a cozy reminder of winter wonderlands and joyful gatherings. They are perfect for busy weeknights or family celebrations, and they fill your kitchen with the most inviting aroma that makes any day feel like a celebration.

These cookies are soft, chewy, and simply irresistible. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savoring them during a quiet evening at home, they’re sure to bring smiles all around. Plus, they come together quickly, making them an easy choice for your holiday baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: This recipe requires just a few simple steps, so you can whip up a batch in no time.
• Family-friendly fun: Everyone will love joining in on the baking process—mixing, scooping, and decorating!
• Perfect for sharing: With about 24 cookies per batch, there’s plenty to go around for friends and family.
• Festive flavor: The combination of peppermint and chocolate creates a deliciously seasonal taste that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies! These are pantry staples you’ll likely have on hand, making this recipe all the more convenient.

• 12 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg (at room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 3/4 cup chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup crushed candy canes

Variations

This Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and switch things up to suit your taste or what you have in your pantry.

• Try different chocolates: Use milk chocolate or white chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter cookie.
• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend for a tasty alternative.
• Mix in spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can bring extra warmth and flavor to your cookies.

How to Make Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Start by creaming together the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the dough, leading to softer cookies.

Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, mix in one large egg along with two teaspoons of vanilla extract. This adds moisture and depth of flavor while ensuring the dough comes together beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and fine sea salt. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this helps keep your cookies tender!

Step 4: Fold in Chocolate and Candy Canes

Gently fold in the chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips along with the crushed candy canes. This is where the fun begins—imagine those little bits of peppermint bringing festive joy into each cookie!

Step 5: Freeze the Dough

Scoop the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze it for at least three hours. Freezing helps maintain their shape while baking so that you get those perfectly round cookies.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake those frozen cookie dough balls for about 9–10 minutes until they are slightly underbaked. They will continue cooking as they cool down, resulting in soft centers!

Step 7: Finish with Candy Canes

Before letting them cool completely, decorate with extra pieces of crushed candy cane on top for that extra festive touch. Enjoy these delightful treats warm from the oven!

Pro Tips for Making Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Baking should be a joyful experience, so here are some tips to ensure your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies turn out perfectly every time!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your butter and egg to room temperature helps create a smoother batter, allowing for better incorporation of ingredients and a tender cookie texture.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies rather than the soft and chewy texture we all love.

• Chill the Dough: Freezing the cookie dough balls for at least three hours is crucial! This step helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies that stay soft inside.

• Check Your Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary; always use an oven thermometer if possible. Baking at the right temperature ensures even cooking and prevents over-baking.

• Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to switch up the chocolate types or add in other festive flavors like orange zest or almond extract. This adds a personal touch and keeps things exciting!

How to Serve Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Serving these delightful cookies can be as fun as baking them! Here are some ideas on how to present your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies to make any gathering feel special.

Garnishes

• Crushed Candy Canes: Sprinkle extra crushed candy canes on top of the cookies right after they come out of the oven for an added festive crunch.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the cooled cookies enhances their look and adds an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of hot cocoa pairs beautifully with these cookies, creating a cozy treat that’s perfect for chilly evenings. You can even add marshmallows or whipped cream for an indulgent touch.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve your cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures—warm, chewy cookies meet cool, creamy ice cream!
• Coffee or Tea: A nice cup of coffee or herbal tea complements the rich chocolate and peppermint flavors nicely, making it an ideal pairing for afternoon snacks or dessert.
• Fruit Platter: Fresh fruit like strawberries or orange slices provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the cookies, making for a well-rounded dessert spread.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering! Enjoy sharing these delicious treats with loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies are not only delightful to enjoy fresh but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily store or freeze them for later, ensuring you always have a festive treat on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• For added freshness, place a slice of bread in the container to help maintain moisture.

Freezing

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
• Alternatively, you can freeze baked cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen baked cookies, let them thaw at room temperature and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 5 minutes.
• If using frozen dough, bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

FAQs

If you have any lingering questions about these delicious treats, you’re in the right place!

Can I make Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies without eggs?

Absolutely! You can replace the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or use unsweetened applesauce as an egg substitute.

How do I customize my Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins such as chopped nuts or different types of chocolate. You could also adjust the amount of crushed candy canes based on your preference for mint flavor!

What makes these the best Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies?

The combination of rich dark chocolate with crunchy candy canes provides a unique flavor that captures the holiday spirit. Plus, their soft and chewy texture is simply irresistible!

How long will Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies will remain fresh for about one week. For longer storage, consider freezing them!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies as much as I do! They’re not just yummy; they embody the warmth and joy of the holiday season. Gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and create some sweet memories together. Happy baking!