Get ready to celebrate the season with my Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies! These festive treats combine the rich taste of chocolate with the refreshing twist of peppermint. Whether you share them at a holiday party or enjoy them with hot cocoa, they’re sure to lift your spirits. In this post, I’ll guide you through each step and share tips to make your cookies simply delightful. Let’s get baking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of chocolate and peppermint creates a festive flavor that is perfect for the holiday season.
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for last-minute baking or holiday gatherings.
- Fun for Everyone: Kids and adults alike enjoy decorating the cookies with crushed peppermint candies, adding a fun touch to the baking experience.
- Great for Gifting: These cookies make a wonderful homemade gift for friends, family, or neighbors during the holiday season.
Ingredients
To make peppermint chocolate chip cookies, you need these simple ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– ¾ cup brown sugar
– ¾ cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
– ½ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
When I bake these cookies, I love how the flavors blend together. The butter gives a rich taste, while brown sugar adds a hint of caramel. The peppermint extract brings that refreshing zing, perfect for the holiday season.
Using both chocolate chips and crushed peppermint creates a great mix of sweet and minty flavors. The semi-sweet or dark chocolate pairs well with the candy, making each bite a delight.
If you want to try another twist, you can swap the chocolate chips for white chocolate. This makes a lovely contrast with the peppermint.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Pre-Baking Preparations
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Prepare your baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mixing the Dough
– In a large bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.
– Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until mixed well.
Combining Dry Ingredients
– In another bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt.
– Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mix, stirring until combined.
Adding Special Ingredients
– Fold in chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies with a spatula.
– Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough on the baking sheet, leaving space.
Baking Time
– Bake for 10-12 minutes. Watch for edges turning golden.
Cooling and Serving
– Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
– Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for easier mixing and a better texture.
- Don't Overmix: Mix the dough until just combined to keep the cookies tender and prevent them from becoming tough.
- Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help them maintain their shape.
- Storage Tips: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for longer freshness.
Tips & Tricks
Baking cookies can be fun and rewarding. Here are some tips to make your peppermint chocolate chip cookies perfect.
Baking Tips for Perfect Cookies
– Recommended temperature for creaming ingredients: Start with softened butter. This helps mix the butter and sugars easily. I find a room temperature around 65°F works well. Cream for about three minutes to get it fluffy.
– Importance of not overmixing the dough: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough. You want them soft and chewy, not hard and dry.
Spice Up Your Cookies
– Adding sea salt to enhance flavors: A little sea salt brings out the sweetness. Just a pinch on top before baking makes a big difference.
– Using different types of chocolate chips: You can mix semi-sweet and dark chocolate chips for fun flavors. White chocolate also pairs well with peppermint.
Presentation Tips
– Creative ways to arrange cookies for serving: Place cookies on a festive platter. Try stacking them or arranging them in a circle. Add some crushed peppermint candies on top for a pop of color.
– Pairing ideas with beverages for a festive touch: Serve your cookies with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of hot chocolate. This makes for a cozy treat, perfect for the holidays.
Variations
Gluten-Free Option
If you want to make gluten-free peppermint chocolate chip cookies, use gluten-free flour. Some great substitutes include almond flour or coconut flour. You can also use a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just make sure it has xanthan gum for the right texture. This way, everyone can enjoy these festive treats!
Vegan Adaptations
To create a vegan version, swap the egg for a flax egg. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens. Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option. You can also use dairy-free chocolate chips. These swaps keep the cookies tasty and suitable for all diets!
Flavor Variations
Feel free to get creative with flavors! Instead of peppermint extract, try using almond or orange extract. You can even add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist. These small changes can make your cookies unique and fun. Explore different extracts and spices to find your favorite combination.
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To keep your cookies fresh at room temperature, follow these steps:
– Use an airtight container. This helps lock in moisture.
– Layer with parchment paper. Place sheets between cookies to avoid sticking.
– Store in a cool, dry place. Avoid damp areas that can cause mold.
These cookies stay fresh for about five days when stored correctly.
Long-Term Storage
If you want to save some cookies for later, freezing is a great option. Here’s how:
– Cool cookies completely. This prevents ice crystals from forming.
– Wrap each cookie in plastic wrap. Ensure they are tightly sealed.
– Place in a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date.
You can freeze these cookies for up to three months. Just thaw before enjoying!
Best Practices for Keeping Fresh
To keep your cookies soft and avoid staleness, try these tips:
– Add a slice of bread to the container. The bread helps maintain moisture.
– Avoid mixing different cookies together. Different types can affect texture and flavor.
– Store in a single layer if possible. This helps to keep them from getting squished.
These simple steps will keep your peppermint chocolate chip cookies delightful and ready to enjoy!
FAQs
How can I make my cookies stay soft?
To keep your cookies soft, do not overbake them. Bake until the edges turn golden but the centers remain soft. Once you take them out, let them cool on the baking sheet. This helps them finish cooking and stay chewy.
Can I use chocolate chunks instead of chips?
Yes, you can use chocolate chunks. They add a nice texture and a rich chocolate flavor. Just chop them into small pieces and mix them into the dough.
What can I substitute for crushed peppermint candies?
If you don’t have crushed peppermint candies, try using mini chocolate chips or even toffee bits. For a minty kick, you can use mint extract in place of the candies.
How long do these cookies last?
These cookies can last about a week at room temperature in an airtight container. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
Can I use different flavor extracts in the recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap peppermint extract for almond or vanilla extract. This will change the cookie’s flavor but still keep it delicious. Experiment with your favorite flavors!
These cookies blend sweet chocolate and mint for a festive treat. You learned key ingredients and step-by-step instructions to bake them perfectly. Remember to avoid overmixing and keep an eye on baking time for the best results. With storage tips, you can enjoy these cookies longer. Feel free to mix things up with flavors or dietary needs, too. Happy baking!
