Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the spirit of the holidays, you’re in the right place! Peppermint chocolate chip cookies are a perfect combination of festive flavors, combining rich dark chocolate with the refreshing crunch of crushed candy canes. They are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just need a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies bring warmth and joy to any occasion.

What makes this recipe even more special is how it fills your kitchen with the sweet aroma of baking while creating memories with loved ones. I love making these cookies during the holiday season, and I’m thrilled to share my favorite recipe with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of delightful cookies without any fuss.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love joining in on the cookie-making fun, making it a great activity for everyone.
• Make-ahead convenience: The dough can be frozen ahead of time, allowing you to bake fresh cookies whenever the craving strikes!
• Delicious flavor: The combination of peppermint and dark chocolate creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! These items are easy to find and perfect for creating those soft and chewy peppermint chocolate chip cookies we all adore.

For the Cookie Dough

• 12 tablespoons unsalted butter (cool room temperature)
• 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (See notes below for measuring)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 3/4 cup chopped dark chocolate bar or chocolate chips (plus more for topping)
• 1/4 cup candy canes (crushed into small pieces, plus more for topping)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to get creative based on what you have in your pantry or your personal tastes. Here are some fun variations to try!

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Change up the chocolate: Use white chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter twist.
• Mix in spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm spice note that complements the peppermint perfectly.
• Use different extracts: Swap out vanilla extract for almond extract to give your cookies a unique flavor profile.

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. Mix them until they become light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3 minutes. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies that lovely soft texture we all crave.

Step 2: Mix in the Wet Ingredients

Next, it’s time to add in the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of your bowl as needed; we want every bit of that sweet goodness mixed in!

Step 3: Mix in the Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time for our dry ingredients! Gently mix in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and fine sea salt. Stop mixing when everything is almost combined; then fold in those delicious chunks of dark chocolate and candy cane pieces. This keeps them intact and ensures they don’t break apart too much.

Step 4: Scoop and Chill the Cookie Dough

Scoop out your cookie dough into 2-tablespoon balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. It’s important to chill these in the freezer for at least 3-4 hours or until they’re frozen solid. Chilling helps develop flavors and ensures your cookies don’t spread too much while baking—trust me, this step is worth it!

Step 5: Preheat the Oven

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake those frozen cookie dough balls spaced at least 2 inches apart for about 9-10 minutes. They might look pale when they come out but don’t worry! They’ll continue cooking as they cool.

Step 6: Decorate with Extra Candies

Once baked, press some extra candy cane pieces and dark chocolate chips onto each cookie. This adds an adorable touch that makes them look as festive as they taste! Let them cool completely on a wire rack before digging in.

Step 7: Store Your Treasures

If there are any leftovers (which I doubt!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2-3 days. For those delicious cookie dough balls you froze, keep them stored in an airtight container or ziplock bag for up to one month. After that, those precious candy canes will start disappearing into oblivion!

Enjoy every bite of these delightful peppermint chocolate chip cookies—happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Baking can be such a joy, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your peppermint chocolate chip cookies turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter and egg to room temperature helps achieve a smoother batter, leading to a lighter, fluffier cookie texture.
• Chill the cookie dough: Allowing the cookie dough to chill for several hours or overnight helps the flavors meld and results in a chewier cookie. This step also prevents spreading during baking.
• Don’t overbake: Pull your cookies out of the oven when they still look slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up while cooling on the tray, giving you that soft, chewy center.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative! Adding extra crushed candy canes or chocolate chips on top before baking gives your cookies a beautiful finish and enhances their flavor.
• Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness. For longer storage, freeze unbaked cookie dough balls; they’ll be ready whenever you need a sweet treat!

How to Serve Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Presenting these delightful cookies can enhance the festive spirit. Whether for a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, here are some fun ideas!

Garnishes

• Drizzle of melted chocolate: A simple drizzle of melted dark chocolate over your baked cookies adds an elegant touch and extra richness.
• Crushed candy cane sprinkle: Just before serving, sprinkle additional crushed candy canes on top for that extra pop of color and holiday flair.

Side Dishes

• Hot cocoa: A warm cup of rich hot cocoa pairs perfectly with these cookies, bringing out the peppermint flavor beautifully while providing a comforting drink alongside.
• Vanilla ice cream: Serve these cookies alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The coolness contrasts nicely with the warm cookies, creating a delightful treat.
• Peppermint tea: A soothing cup of peppermint tea not only complements the flavors in your cookies but also adds an aromatic experience that enhances your dessert time.
• Fruit platter: Fresh fruits like strawberries or oranges provide a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the cookies and add vibrant colors to your presentation.

Enjoy this festive treat with loved ones or keep them all for yourself—either way, they are sure to bring smiles!

Make Ahead and Storage

These peppermint chocolate chip cookies are perfect for meal prep, making them an ideal treat to whip up ahead of time. You can easily store and freeze them to enjoy later, ensuring you always have a festive cookie on hand!

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days.
• If you want to keep them fresher longer, consider placing parchment paper between the layers of cookies.

Freezing

• To freeze unbaked cookie dough, scoop the dough into 2 tbsp balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer the balls to an airtight container or ziplock bag.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month.

Reheating

• To reheat leftover cookies, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can warm them up in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

If you have questions about these delightful cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries that might help.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips in peppermint chocolate chip cookies?

Absolutely! While dark chocolate chips complement the peppermint flavor beautifully, you can substitute with milk chocolate or even white chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter cookie.

How long do peppermint chocolate chip cookies last?

When stored properly, peppermint chocolate chip cookies will stay fresh for about 2-3 days at room temperature. If frozen, they can last up to one month!

What makes these peppermint chocolate chip cookies special?

These cookies are special because they combine classic flavors with a festive twist. The crushed candy canes add a delightful crunch and holiday spirit that sets them apart from traditional chocolate chip cookies.

Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?

Yes! The dough can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for a few days or frozen for later baking. This makes it easy to enjoy fresh cookies anytime!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy and warmth to your kitchen during the holiday season! With their delicious combination of peppermint and rich chocolate, these peppermint chocolate chip cookies are sure to delight family and friends alike. Have fun making them and savoring each bite—you’re going to love sharing this festive treat!