There’s something magical about the combination of chocolate and peppermint, especially in the form of cookies. The cool, refreshing taste of peppermint paired with rich, luscious chocolate creates a delightful treat that many crave during the holiday season and beyond. If you’re looking to impress friends and family with a delicious, aromatic, and visually enticing dessert, you’ve come to the right place. These peppermint chocolate chip cookies are easy to make and will fill your kitchen with an irresistible fragrance.
Why We Love This Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Peppermint chocolate chip cookies stand out for several reasons. First, the flavor profile is a perfect blend of warmth and coolness. The familiar taste of chocolate chip cookies takes on a new life with the addition of peppermint, adding a fresh twist that delights the senses. These cookies are ideal for any occasion, whether you are hosting a holiday party, enjoying a cozy evening at home, or wanting to treat yourself to something special.
Moreover, these cookies are easy to prepare and require common ingredients you may already have in your pantry. You can whip up a batch quickly, making them a great option for unexpected guests or last-minute cravings. The vibrant presentation, particularly when adorned with festive sprinkles or crushed candy canes, adds a visual appeal that makes them perfect for celebrations. Overall, peppermint chocolate chip cookies combine convenience, flavor, and festivity, making them a favorite for many.
Ingredients for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Crushed peppermint candy or sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated after each addition. Then, stir in the peppermint extract until combined.
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. Be careful not to overmix.
Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop portions of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If desired, sprinkle crushed peppermint candy or festive sprinkles on top of each cookie before baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may appear slightly underbaked; this is okay, as they will firm up as they cool.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
How to Serve Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Peppermint chocolate chip cookies are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Present them on a decorative platter or add them to a festive cookie tin for an appealing holiday gift. For an extra touch, pair them with a glass of milk or hot cocoa, creating the ultimate cozy treat for chilly days. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider creating a dessert bar where guests can customize their cookies with toppings such as whipped cream, chocolate drizzles, or extra crushed peppermint.
You can also elevate the experience by serving these cookies warm, with a scoop of vanilla or mint ice cream on the side. The contrast of warm cookies and cold ice cream is heavenly and makes for an indulgent dessert. Consider sprinkling some crushed peppermint on top of the ice cream for a thematic touch. Your friends and family will appreciate the extra effort and enjoy this delightful combination.
Expert Tips for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
To ensure your peppermint chocolate chip cookies turn out perfect every time, here are some expert tips to keep in mind. First, make sure your butter is at room temperature before you begin. This will help create a creamy mixture when you cream it with the sugars, resulting in a softer, chewier cookie. If you’re short on time, you can quickly soften butter by cutting it into small cubes and letting it sit for about 15 minutes.
Second, measure your flour correctly to avoid dense cookies. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife rather than scooping directly from the bag. This ensures you don’t pack the flour, which can make your cookies tough.
Also, consider chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This step helps the flavors meld together and can prevent the cookies from spreading too much, resulting in thicker cookies.
Finally, feel free to taste the dough before baking (just ensure your eggs are pasteurized if this concerns you!). Adjust the peppermint extract based on your personal taste preferences; if you want a stronger flavor, add a bit more.
How to Store Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Storing peppermint chocolate chip cookies correctly is essential to maintain their freshness and texture. After your cookies cool completely, place them in an airtight container. If stacked, use parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together.
You can keep these cookies at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to preserve them for longer, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring to seal tightly. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, allow the cookies to thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the microwave for a freshly baked taste.
Variations of Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
There are many fun variations you can try with peppermint chocolate chip cookies to cater to different preferences. If you want to play with flavors, consider adding white chocolate chips along with or instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips. The creaminess of white chocolate pairs beautifully with peppermint, adding a different dimension to your cookies.
For those who enjoy a nutty crunch, fold in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. They add a delightful texture and a savory contrast to the sweet chocolate and mint. You could also use mint chocolate chips for a more intense peppermint flavor, which can make these cookies even more festive.
Another exciting option is to create a stuffed cookie. You can take two smaller dough balls and stuff them with a small chocolate or peppermint candy before baking. This surprise filling will delight cookie lovers and keep them guessing.
Lastly, consider adding a bit of food coloring to the dough for a festive look. Bright red or green hues can add a fun twist, making them visually appealing for holiday gatherings or birthday parties. Experimenting with these variations allows for creativity and personalization, making your peppermint chocolate chip cookies truly unique.
FAQ about Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
You might have some questions about peppermint chocolate chip cookies, especially if you’re new to baking. How long does it take to make them? From start to finish, you can typically whip up a batch in about 30 to 40 minutes, including prep time and baking.
Can you skip the peppermint extract? While you can omit it, the unique flavor it adds is an essential part of what makes these cookies special. If you’re concerned about the potency, start with a smaller amount and adjust to your taste.
What else can I add to the dough? Feel free to get creative! You can throw in things like crushed Oreos, mini marshmallows, or even a dash of instant coffee granules for added depth of flavor.
How do you know when the cookies are done? Cookies are usually done when the edges are set and just golden, while the centers may look slightly undercooked. They’ll firm up as they cool.
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to three days or freeze it for up to three months. Just roll it into balls before freezing for quick access when you want fresh cookies.
These questions and answers should help you navigate the process of making your peppermint chocolate chip cookies with confidence and excitement!
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature Ensure butter is at room temperature for best results.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons peppermint extract Adjust to taste if stronger flavor is desired.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour Measure correctly to avoid dense cookies.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1.5 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Crushed peppermint candy or sprinkles for decoration (optional) Add for festive presentation.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated after each addition. Then, stir in the peppermint extract until combined.
- 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. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Drop portions of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If desired, sprinkle crushed peppermint or festive sprinkles on top.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are golden brown.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
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