As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like the festive aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen. Imagine the delightful crunch of a peppermint candy cane blending harmoniously with rich chocolate, bringing an extra sprinkle of cheer to your gatherings. One chilly afternoon, while searching for a way to elevate my standard chocolate chip cookie recipe, I stumbled upon the idea of adding crushed candy canes. What resulted was a creation that promised simplicity and holiday joy: Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies.
These cookies are not only a treat for the eyes with their vibrant red and green pieces but also a crowd-pleasing delight that balances nostalgia with a hint of seasonal freshness. They’re perfect for cozying up on the couch with a warm mug of cocoa or bringing a thoughtful gift to your next holiday party. So roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into making these irresistible cookies, destined to leave you and your loved ones smiling this season!
Why are Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies a must-bake?
Irresistible flavor: The delightful combination of rich chocolate and crisp peppermint creates a taste sensation that’ll have everyone coming back for more.
Festive appeal: Brighten up your holiday gatherings with the vibrant colors of candy canes, making these cookies a feast for the eyes as well.
Easy preparation: With a few simple steps, these cookies come together quickly, letting you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the festivities.
Versatile treat: Perfect for holiday parties, gift-giving, or cozy nights at home, they adapt to any occasion effortlessly.
Crowd pleaser: Everyone from kids to adults will adore this unique twist on a classic favorite, ensuring they’re the star of your dessert table!
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- Unsalted butter – 12 tablespoons, softened for rich creaminess that enhances texture.
- Light brown sugar – 1 cup, packed to create a deep, caramelized flavor.
- Granulated sugar – 1/4 cup, adding sweetness and contributing to the perfect cookie crunch.
- Large egg – 1, binds the ingredients while providing moisture and richness.
- Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons, infusing a warm, aromatic essence into every bite.
- All-purpose flour – 2 1/4 cups, the foundation for structure in these enticing cookies.
- Baking soda – 1 teaspoon, helping the cookies rise and become wonderfully fluffy.
- Fine sea salt – 1 teaspoon, balancing the sweetness and enhancing flavor depth.
For the Chocolate and Candy Canes
- Dark chocolate bar or chocolate chips – 3/4 cup, providing a luxurious chocolate experience that pairs perfectly with peppermint.
- Candy canes – 1/4 cup, crushed into small pieces to sprinkle in festive flavor and delightful crunch, making these Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies a real holiday treat!
How to Make Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
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Cream together: Start by creaming the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, which should take about 3 minutes. This helps create a lovely texture!
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Add egg and vanilla: Mix in 1 large egg and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until just combined. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate everything evenly, enhancing the batter’s flavor.
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Combine dry ingredients: Gently mix in 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of fine sea salt, and 1 teaspoon of baking soda until almost combined. This forms the base of your cookie dough ensuring it has the right structure.
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Fold in chocolate and candy canes: Carefully fold in 3/4 cup of chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips and 1/4 cup of crushed candy canes until everything is just combined. The dough should have a beautiful speckled look with the candy cane pieces.
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Scoop and bake: Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each cookie. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
Optional: Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled cookies for an extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Savor the enchanting holiday vibe by pairing these delightful cookies with complementary treats that bring your festive gatherings to life.
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Hot Cocoa: This rich, chocolatey drink embraces the cookies’ flavors, offering warmth and comfort during chilly evenings.
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Peppermint Ice Cream: Scoops of creamy peppermint ice cream provide a refreshing contrast, enhancing the cookies’ crunchy candy cane pieces in every bite.
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Spiced Apple Cider: The sweet and spicy notes of this warm drink create a cozy atmosphere, perfectly balancing the sweet chocolate and peppermint.
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Nutty Cheeseboard: Include a variety of nuts, cheeses, and dried fruits for a delightful crunch and freshness that contrasts with the cookie’s sweetness.
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Caramel Dipping Sauce: Drizzle some warm caramel over your cookies for an indulgent twist, making each bite a sweet surprise!
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Festive Fruit Salad: Brighten up your dessert table with a medley of fruits; the natural sweetness and tartness will complement the cookies beautifully.
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Holiday Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly adds a celebratory touch, elevating the seasonal spirit while pairing delightfully with sweet treats.
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Chocolate Mint Truffles: Enhance the chocolate experience with these decadent bites that layer flavors and textures, enchanting the palate alongside the cookies.
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Coffee Blends: A hot cup of brewed coffee or mocha rounds out this cookie experience wonderfully, providing a lively balance to the sweetness.
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and fresh, perfect for snacking anytime!
Fridge: If you want to prolong their freshness, keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before enjoying!
Freezer: To freeze, place cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, separated by parchment paper. They can last up to 3 months, making it easy to save some festive cheer!
Reheating: For a warm treat, reheat cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in an oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies!
Expert Tips for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
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Proper Butter Softening: Allow your butter to sit at room temperature until it’s soft but not melted. This ensures a creamy texture when creaming with sugars.
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Avoid Overmixing: Once you add the flour and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, which is a common mistake.
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Perfect Cookie Size: Use a cookie scoop to maintain uniformity, which helps them bake evenly while ensuring that everyone gets the same delightful experience in your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies.
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Check for Doneness: Look for lightly golden edges; the center may look slightly underbaked, but they’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
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Cooling Patience: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps retain their shape and texture!
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to enjoy the holiday season stress-free! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. Alternatively, you can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months—just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a resealable bag. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for frozen dough. This way, you can savor freshly baked cookies anytime without the fuss, ensuring they’re just as delicious as when made fresh!
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful cookies with these fun and flavorful ideas!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy the same delicious cookies without the gluten.
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Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips to keep it creamy and rich without any animal products.
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Mint Chocolate: Instead of candy canes, use mint extract (1 teaspoon) and chocolate mint chips for an intense peppermint flavor.
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Nutty Addition: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch that complements the chocolate and peppermint beautifully.
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Spiced Up: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or ginger to the dough for a warm twist that elevates the festive vibe.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white chocolate over cooled cookies for a sweet, elegant finish, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
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Bite-sized: Turn these cookies into mini delights by using a mini cookie scoop. Adjust baking time to about 8-10 minutes for perfectly cute treats!
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Chili Twist: For those who love a kick, add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the batter for an unexpected spicy contrast to the sweetness.
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to pick ripe ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose unsalted butter that’s at room temperature for easy creaming. When selecting eggs, look for ones that are clean and uncracked. For your candy canes, opt for ones that are vibrant in color and free from dark spots.
How should I store Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Cookies should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will keep them soft and delicious. If you want them to last a bit longer, they can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze, ensure the cookies are completely cooled. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat directly from the freezer!
What common baking problems should I be aware of?
One common issue is cookies spreading too much. This can happen if your butter is too soft or if there’s not enough flour. To remedy this, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately and chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. If your cookies seem dry, they may have been overmixed. Remember, mix until just combined for the perfect texture!
Any dietary considerations for these cookies?
For those with dietary restrictions, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free blend if gluten is a concern. Additionally, ensure that your chocolate chips and candy canes are free from allergens if you’re baking for someone with allergies. I often suggest checking the labels for any hidden dairy or nut ingredients!
How can I keep my cookies fresh for gatherings?
To maintain freshness for holiday parties, consider freezing some cookies ahead of time and bringing them out only when needed. For stored cookies, place a slice of bread in the container with them. This will help keep the cookies soft as the bread absorbs moisture. Enjoying these Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies at their best is key to making your gatherings even more special!
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies for Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream together the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Mix in the large egg and vanilla extract until just combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate everything evenly.
- Gently mix in all-purpose flour, fine sea salt, and baking soda until almost combined.
- Carefully fold in chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips and crushed candy canes until just combined.
- Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes.