Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies: A Festive Holiday Treat

Name: Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter ((2 sticks), softened); ¾ cup Granulated Sugar; ¾ cup Packed Brown Sugar; 2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract; 2 Large Eggs; 2 ¼ cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Salt; 2 cups Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips; 1 cup Crushed Candy Canes ((reserve some for garnish))

BY :

Sofia

Posted On :

September 10, 2025

Dessert

The aroma of warm, freshly baked cookies, infused with the crisp coolness of peppermint and the rich indulgence of chocolate chips, is enough to transport you straight to a cozy winter wonderland. This recipe for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s a journey into the heart of holiday baking, where every bite is a burst of festive flavor. Imagine the scene: a crackling fire, a warm mug of cocoa, and a plate piled high with these irresistible cookies, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring on your own. That’s the magic these Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies bring to your kitchen. This recipe ensures perfectly chewy cookies with the ideal balance of peppermint and chocolate, a true delight for any holiday gathering or cozy night in. Prepare to be amazed by how simple yet incredibly delicious these cookies are to make!

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

This recipe for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies is more than just another cookie recipe; it’s a delightful experience that will leave you craving more. There’s a reason why this recipe reigns supreme in the hearts (and stomachs) of many bakers. Let’s delve into what makes these cookies so extraordinary:

Unbeatable Flavor Combination: The perfect marriage of sweet chocolate chips and refreshing peppermint creates a flavor profile that’s both classic and innovative. The peppermint adds a unique zing that elevates the standard chocolate chip cookie to a whole new level.
Perfectly Chewy Texture: This recipe is meticulously crafted to deliver that ideal chewy texture. The combination of brown and granulated sugar, along with the precise baking time, creates cookies that are soft and delightful in the center, with slightly crisp edges.
Easy to Follow Instructions: Even novice bakers can easily whip up a batch of these Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies. The step-by-step instructions are clear, concise, and easy to understand, making the baking process stress-free and enjoyable.
Festive and Customizable: These cookies are inherently festive, thanks to their peppermint flavor and the option to garnish with crushed candy canes. But the customization doesn’t stop there. Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips, add nuts, or even incorporate other holiday spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Explore more holiday recipes here!
Perfect for Gifting: Imagine the joy on your loved ones’ faces when you present them with a tin of these homemade Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies. They’re a thoughtful and delicious gift that’s perfect for any occasion, especially the holidays.

Why You Should Try This Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

In a world overflowing with cookie recipes, this recipe for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies stands out for its unique blend of simplicity, deliciousness, and festive cheer. Here are some compelling reasons to give this recipe a try:

Impress Your Guests: These Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies are guaranteed to impress your friends and family. Their unique flavor combination and perfect texture make them a conversation starter at any gathering.
Elevate Your Holiday Baking: Take your holiday baking to the next level with this festive recipe. These cookies are the perfect addition to your holiday cookie tray, adding a touch of sophistication and seasonal flair.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth: These cookies are the perfect indulgence for satisfying your sweet tooth. The balance of peppermint and chocolate delivers a taste sensation that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
A Recipe for All Skill Levels: Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a complete beginner, this recipe is accessible to everyone. The clear instructions and simple techniques make it a breeze to create delicious cookies, no matter your experience level.
Create Lasting Memories: Baking these cookies can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when shared with loved ones. Creating these cookies together can forge lasting memories and strengthen family bonds. For more delightful fall treats, check out our Moist Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread recipe.

Ingredients and Utensils for Perfect Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients and having the proper tools at your disposal will guarantee a baking experience that’s both efficient and rewarding. Let’s dive into the specifics:

Ingredients: A Detailed Breakdown

Unsalted Butter (1 cup, 2 sticks): Use softened, not melted, butter for optimal texture. This key ingredient provides richness and ensures a moist, chewy cookie. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
Granulated Sugar (¾ cup): Contributes to sweetness and crisp edges.
Packed Brown Sugar (¾ cup): Adds moisture and that signature chewiness to the cookies. “Packed” means firmly pressing the brown sugar into the measuring cup to ensure accurate measurement.
Pure Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies. Always opt for pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
Large Eggs (2): Bind the ingredients together and add richness. Use large eggs for consistent results. Room temperature eggs work best for even mixing.
All-Purpose Flour (2 ¼ cups): The structural component of the cookies. Always spoon the flour into your measuring cup to avoid packing, leading to denser cookies.
Baking Soda (1 teaspoon): The leavening agent, crucial for achieving the right texture. Ensure your baking soda is fresh; old baking soda loses its effectiveness.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the cookies. Don’t skip the salt; it’s a critical component for flavor balance.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (2 cups): The classic and indispensable addition to these festive cookies. The semi-sweet variety is ideal for balancing the sweetness of the other ingredients.
Crushed Candy Canes (1 cup): Provides the signature peppermint flavor and festive crunch. Crush the candy canes finely for even distribution; reserve some for garnish. You can adjust the amount of crushed candy canes to your liking, for a more intense or subtle peppermint flavor.

Utensils: Your Baking Arsenal

Large Mixing Bowls (2): One for creaming the butter and sugars, and another for combining the dry ingredients. Use stainless steel or glass bowls for best results.
Electric Mixer (Handheld or Stand): Essential for effectively creaming the butter and sugars, creating a light and fluffy base for your cookies. A stand mixer is ideal for larger batches; a hand mixer works well for smaller ones.
Whisk: For smoothly blending the dry ingredients in a separate bowl. A balloon whisk works wonders for achieving a perfectly smooth mixture.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. Use a kitchen scale for even more precise measurements.
Rubber Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For folding in the dry ingredients and gently combining everything. A rubber spatula is great for scraping down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all the ingredients.
Baking Sheets (2 or more): To bake the cookies in batches. Use sturdy baking sheets that won’t warp in the oven.
Parchment Paper: Prevents the cookies from sticking to the baking sheets and facilitates easy cleanup. Line your baking sheets for effortlessly removing the cookies after baking.
Cookie Scoop (Optional): Ensures uniform cookie size and baking time. A cookie scoop is a helpful tool for consistency, particularly if you’re making a large batch.
Wire Rack: For cooling the cookies completely after baking. This prevents them from becoming soggy and ensures they stay crisp.

Detailed Steps to Make Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Follow these easy-to-follow instructions to bake the perfect batch of Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies. Each step is carefully explained to help you achieve delicious results.

Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This is a crucial step to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the cookies. **Don’t skip this step!**
Cream Butter & Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This step is fundamental for achieving a light and airy cookie. **Cream until the mixture is pale and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.**
Add Eggs & Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Mix well after each egg addition to ensure proper incorporation. **Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all the ingredients.**
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisk thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the leavening agent. **Avoid overmixing the dry ingredients.**
Gradually Combine Wet & Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. **Be careful not to overmix; overmixing develops gluten and results in tough cookies.**
Stir in Chocolate Chips & Candy Canes: Gently stir in the chocolate chips and crushed candy canes. **Don’t overmix at this stage either, just gently fold in the mix-ins.**
Scoop & Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie. **This allows for proper expansion during baking.** Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft. Baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them.
Cool & Garnish: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. **Cooling on the baking sheets helps set their shape.** Sprinkle with reserved crushed candy canes for an extra festive touch.

Tips, Variations, and Troubleshooting for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Achieving cookie perfection involves attention to detail and a willingness to experiment. Here are some tips, variations, and solutions to common problems:

Tips for Cookie Success:

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal creaming and mixing.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
Chill the Dough (Optional): Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help prevent spreading and create thicker cookies.
Baking Time Variations: Oven temperatures vary; keep a close eye on your cookies and adjust baking time as needed.
Proper Cooling: Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack to prevent sogginess.

Variations on a Theme:

Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: Replace semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate flavor.
White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a sweeter and lighter cookie.
Peppermint Mocha Cookies: Add 1 tablespoon of instant espresso powder to the dry ingredients for a mocha twist. Discover more protein-packed recipes!
Gluten-Free Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Vegan Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies: Replace butter with vegan butter and eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg).

Troubleshooting Common Problems:

Cookies Spread Too Much: Chill the dough, use less butter, or slightly reduce the baking temperature.
Cookies Are Too Dry: Use more brown sugar or slightly reduce baking time.
Cookies Are Too Chewy: Slightly reduce the amount of brown sugar or increase baking time.
Cookies Burned: Lower the oven temperature or reduce baking time.

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits of Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

While these Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies are undeniably indulgent, let’s explore their nutritional aspects and the health benefits of some of their key ingredients:

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used. For precise nutritional values, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.)

Approximate Nutritional Information (per cookie, depending on size):

Calories: 150-200
Fat: 8-10g
Saturated Fat: 5-7g
Carbohydrates: 20-25g
Sugar: 12-15g
Protein: 2-3g

Health Benefits of Ingredients:

Butter: Provides fat-soluble vitamins and is a source of energy.
Chocolate: Rich in antioxidants, especially dark chocolate. Can improve mood and cardiovascular health in moderation.
Peppermint: Contains menthol, which can have digestive benefits and refreshing properties.
Whole Wheat Flour (Optional Substitute): Offers more fiber than all-purpose flour. If you are using whole wheat flour, add a small amount of milk to compensate for the increased absorption.

Important Note: These cookies are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

FAQs about Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

FAQs

How long do Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies last?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with dark chocolate, milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even a mix of different types. Each will provide a unique flavor profile.

What if my cookies spread too thin during baking?

If your cookies spread too thin, try chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. You could also slightly reduce the baking temperature or use a bit less butter in the recipe.

Are these Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies gluten-free adaptable?

Yes, you can make these gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a quality gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to follow the instructions on the specific blend you choose.

How can I make my Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies extra festive?

For extra festive flair, consider adding sprinkles, decorating with a peppermint icing drizzle, or even using cookie cutters to create fun shapes before baking. Check out our Pinterest page for more cookie decorating ideas!

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies!

These Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies are the epitome of holiday baking: simple to make, yet bursting with festive flavor and a delightful texture. Remember the key steps: creaming the butter and sugar for a fluffy base, gently folding in the dry ingredients to avoid toughness, and carefully monitoring baking time for perfectly chewy cookies. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations to find your perfect Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe.

Now that you’ve mastered this recipe, share your baking experience with us! Let us know in the comments below how your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies turned out, and don’t forget to share this delicious recipe with your friends and family. Happy baking!