why make this recipe
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies bring together the classic flavors of chocolate and mint, making them a perfect treat for any season, but especially festive occasions. These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor, making them irresistible to anyone who tastes them.
Not only are they delicious, but they also create a light and refreshing twist. The combination of the rich chocolate and cool peppermint is delightful and satisfying. This recipe will certainly elevate your baking game and impress your family and friends.
equipment needed for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer or wooden spoon
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon
- Wire rack for cooling
What You Need to Make Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (plus more for topping)
- 1/4 tsp peppermint extract (optional)
How to Cook Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Step by Step
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer or a wooden spoon to cream the softened butter with both sugars until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. After that, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract and the optional peppermint extract if you’re using it for an extra punch of flavor.
Next, gradually incorporate the dry ingredients you mixed earlier. Stir until everything is just combined; be careful not to overmix. The last step is to fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Now it’s time to scoop the dough. Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. For an extra festive touch, press a few additional chocolate chips and peppermint candies on top of each cookie.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 9 to 11 minutes or until the edges are golden. Keep an eye on them; you want them to remain soft in the center. Once baked, cool the cookies for about 5 minutes on the baking sheets before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
how to make Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
To make Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies, start by gathering all your ingredients. Ensuring you have everything on hand will make the process smoother. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets.
Then, mix the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. In another large bowl, cream together the soft butter with both sugars until it’s light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time and include the vanilla and peppermint extracts as you mix. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients followed by the chocolate chips and crushed candies. Spoon the cookie dough onto the baking sheets, bake, and enjoy!
how to serve Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies are best served warm, straight from the oven, or just a bit cooled. You can also place these delightful cookies on a festive dessert platter for holiday gatherings.
For an extra special treat, consider serving them alongside a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of hot cocoa. This pairing will enhance the flavors and make your experience even more delightful.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also sandwich a scoop of peppermint ice cream between two cookies for a whimsical dessert that everyone will love.
what to serve with Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
When serving Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies, pairing them with a few simple items can elevate the experience. A classic choice is a tall glass of milk. The creamy, cold milk perfectly balances the sweetness and richness of the cookies.
Holiday-themed beverages also make a wonderful pairing. Consider options like hot chocolate, peppermint mocha, or even eggnog during the festive season. A light sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies on top of your drink can tie everything together beautifully.
For a more leisurely dessert, consider serving these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream, creating a delicious ice cream sandwich that is sure to delight.
how to store Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Storing your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies properly is key to keeping them fresh and delicious. Once they have completely cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. They will stay fresh at room temperature for about 4 to 5 days.
If you’re looking to keep them longer, consider placing them in the refrigerator. In the fridge, they can last up to 2 weeks. For even longer storage, you can freeze them. Place individual cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll last for about 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, just take them out and let them thaw at room temperature. You can also warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds for that just-baked taste.
tips to make Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
To ensure your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies turn out perfectly, pay attention to the quality of ingredients. Use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for the best flavor. Also, if possible, opt for fresh peppermint candies for the topping to maximize the mint flavor.
Make sure your butter is softened properly; it should be slightly warm to the touch but not melted. This step greatly helps in achieving a light and fluffy texture.
Chill your dough for 30 minutes before baking if you prefer a thicker cookie. This simple tip helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Be careful while baking; checking your cookies a minute before the timer goes off is a good idea if you want them soft and chewy, as they will continue to cook slightly after being taken out of the oven.
variation
If you want to explore variations of this recipe, consider adding some white chocolate chips along with the semi-sweet ones. This combination creates a beautiful contrast of flavors.
You could also incorporate nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added texture. Experimenting with the ratio of peppermint extract can also produce different levels of mintiness.
For a festive twist, you can switch the crushed peppermint candies for orange-flavored candies, creating a delightful citrus twist instead of mint.
best time to make Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies are excellent for many occasions, but they shine brightest during the holiday season. Their festive colors and flavors make them perfect for Christmas parties, cookie exchanges, or family gatherings.
You can also make them for other celebrations, such as Valentine’s Day, to add a touch of chocolatey love. If you’re craving a wintry treat in spring, these cookies remain enjoyable year-round due to their pleasing flavors.
common mistakes to avoid
One common mistake when making cookies is over-mixing the dough. Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies, so only mix until the ingredients are just combined.
Be cautious with the oven temperature; if it’s too high, your cookies may cook too quickly, resulting in a dry texture. Always preheat your oven fully before baking, as this step is critical for achieving the right cookie consistency.
Lastly, avoid keeping your cookies in an open container, which can lead to them becoming stale quickly. Always use an airtight container to maintain their softness and freshness.
nutritional notes
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies, like many treats, are best eaten in moderation. They can contain a good amount of sugar and butter, contributing to a higher calorie count. However, they also bring joy and fun to special occasions, making them a delightful indulgence.
If working to maintain a healthy balance, consider enjoying these cookies as an occasional treat rather than everyday snacks. Additionally, experimenting with healthier substitutions, such as using coconut oil instead of butter, can reduce the calorie count while keeping the flavors intact.
FAQs
Can I use peppermint extract instead of crushed peppermint candies?
Yes, you can. Using peppermint extract will give you a more intense peppermint flavor without the texture, but crushed candies create a delightful crunch.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Cookies are done when the edges are set and lightly golden. They might still look a bit soft in the middle, but they will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Definitely! You can scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze the individual cookies. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can go straight from the freezer to the oven whenever you want fresh cookies!
conclusion
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies blend rich chocolate with refreshing mint, creating a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, baking these cookies will bring joy to your kitchen and smiles to your loved ones.
By incorporating tips and variations, you can make this recipe your own. Whether during the festive season or any time of the year, these cookies are bound to become a favorite. Enjoy sharing them with friends and family, creating lasting memories around this delicious cookie!
