Peppermint Cookies

INTRODUCTION

Peppermint cookies are a delightful treat that can make any occasion feel special. These cookies are soft, chewy, and full of flavor. Just the right amount of sweetness balances with the cool burst of peppermint. They are perfect for the holidays, a cozy gathering, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth. Making these cookies is easy, and the result is always a crowd-pleaser.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love this peppermint cookie recipe for several reasons. First, they are simple to make, even if you are new to baking. The ingredients are easy to find in most stores. Second, the combination of white chocolate and peppermint is a match made in heaven. Each bite is filled with a delicious mix of flavor and texture. Finally, these cookies bring a festive touch to your kitchen. The bright colors and flavors will brighten up any table or party platter.

HOW TO MAKE Peppermint Cookies

Making peppermint cookies is not too complicated. Follow these simple steps, and you will have delicious cookies in no time.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

Before you start baking, gather the necessary equipment:

• Mixing bowl
• Electric stand mixer with paddle attachment
• Whisk
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheets
• Wire rack

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
• 1 1/3 cups white chocolate chips, plus more for tops if desired
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candy canes

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
2. In an electric stand mixer bowl with the paddle attachment, cream together the room-temperature butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until well blended.
3. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to get all the ingredients mixed well.
4. Next, add in the egg and then blend in the egg yolk. Follow this with the peppermint extract and vanilla extract. Scrape down the bowl again to mix everything well.
5. Now, it’s time to add in the flour mixture, mixing just until combined.
6. Pour in the white chocolate chips and crushed candy canes, mixing until everything is evenly combined.
7. Scoop out the dough using a slightly heaped number 40 cookie scoop, which is about 1.5 heaped tablespoons or 37 grams.
8. Shape the dough into balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray.
9. Chill the cookie dough balls for about 20 minutes.
10. While waiting, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
11. After chilling, transfer 12 cookie dough balls to the lined cookie sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
12. Bake in the preheated oven until the cookies are nearly baked through. They should look puffed and slightly under-baked in the center, which will take about 12 to 14 minutes.
13. Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
14. If you like, press a few extra white chocolate chips into each cookie while they are still warm for added decoration.
15. Repeat the baking steps with the remaining cookie dough.
16. Once the cookies are cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

HOW TO SERVE Peppermint Cookies

You can serve peppermint cookies in various ways. They are great on their own, but you can also make a nice presentation. Place them on a festive plate surrounded by additional crushed candy canes or mini candy cane pieces. You can pair them with a warm cup of cocoa or coffee for a cozy treat. For parties, you can create a dessert table with other cookies or holiday treats to make the spread look even more inviting.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Peppermint Cookies

If you have leftover peppermint cookies, you can store them easily. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you want to eat them, just take them out and let them thaw at room temperature.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

When serving peppermint cookies, you can add some fun toppings or combinations. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Drizzle melted white chocolate over the cookies for added sweetness.
• Serve with whipped cream or ice cream for a delicious dessert.
• Combine them with other holiday cookies for a mixed cookie box.
• Crushed candy canes can be sprinkled on top for extra crunch and color.
• Pair the cookies with flavored teas, like peppermint tea, for a lovely touch.

VARIATIONS

If you want to switch things up, here are some variations you can try:

• Use dark chocolate chips instead of white chocolate for a richer flavor.
• Add some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Try using natural peppermint flavor instead of extract for a stronger taste.
• Experiment with adding different holiday spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra kick.
• Swap out crushed candy canes for other crushed candies like toffee for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine, but the taste and texture may be different. Butter gives a richer flavor.

2. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking.

3. Do I have to chill the cookie dough?
Chilling the dough is recommended. It helps the cookies maintain their shape and improves their texture.

4. Can I add more peppermint flavor?
Yes, you can add a bit more peppermint extract, but be careful not to add too much, as it can become overpowering.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Peppermint Cookies

If you want to make these peppermint cookies ahead of time, you can prepare the dough and freeze it. Scoop the dough into cookie balls and freeze them on a tray. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you are ready to bake, you can bake them straight from the freezer. Just add a minute or two to the baking time if needed. This way, you always have a batch of fresh cookies on hand!

Enjoy making and sharing these delightful peppermint cookies!

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