Introduction
There’s something undeniably magic about the combination of mint and chocolate, especially during the festive season! These Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat that bring a cheerful burst of flavor with every bite. Soft, chewy, and studded with rich chocolate chips and refreshingly cool peppermint, they are the perfect cookie to share with friends and family—or to indulge in all by yourself. So let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delightful holiday baking adventure!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup peppermint baking chips
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Cream together until smooth and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and the refreshing peppermint extract for that festive flavor boost.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep your cookies light and fluffy.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips and peppermint baking chips, distributing them evenly throughout the dough for a delicious surprise in every bite.
- Using a tablespoon, drop balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave enough space between each cookie as they will spread while baking.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Look for the edges to turn lightly golden while the centers remain soft; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to wire racks to cool completely, allowing their lovely texture to set.
Notes or Tips
For an extra festive touch, consider sprinkling crushed candy canes on top of the cookies before baking. The additional crunch and flavor will elevate your holiday treat! Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and chewy.
Cooking Techniques
Creaming the butter and sugars until fluffy is key to achieving the perfect texture in your cookies. This process incorporates air, helping them rise beautifully in the oven. Be sure to let your butter soften at room temperature for optimal mixing, and use a rubber spatula to gently fold in the chocolate and peppermint chips to maintain the fluffy consistency of the dough.
FAQ
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! You can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Scoop the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for peppermint baking chips?
If you can’t find peppermint baking chips, you can use additional chocolate chips and a bit more peppermint extract to enhance the flavor. Alternatively, chopped peppermint candies or crushed candy canes can work well too!
Conclusion
These Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies are sure to become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire. The perfect mix of chewy texture and a refreshing minty kick makes them irresistible. Whether for a cozy evening at home or a festive gathering, these cookies will undoubtedly spread joy and sweetness all around. So gather your loved ones, get baking, and enjoy the sweet magic of the season! Happy baking!