Imagine biting into a soft, chewy Christmas peppermint cookie that bursts with the flavors of holiday cheer. The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint dances on your taste buds, while the festive colors make it feel like a celebration in every bite. Christmas gooey butter cookies These cookies are perfect for cozy nights by the fireplace or festive gatherings where you want to impress your friends and family.
As I baked these delicious Christmas peppermint cookies one year, my kitchen transformed into a winter wonderland filled with laughter, flour dust, and sticky fingers reaching for more. The smell wafting through my home was so intoxicating that even my dog sat patiently at my feet, hoping for a crumb to fall. peppermint meltaway cookies These delightful cookies not only taste amazing, but they also create memories worth cherishing.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These delicious Christmas peppermint cookies are quick and easy to prepare, making holiday baking stress-free
- The flavor profile balances sweetness with a refreshing mint twist, tantalizing your taste buds
- Their vibrant red and white appearance makes them an eye-catching addition to any dessert table
- Versatile enough to customize with different toppings or mix-ins based on your preferences
One time, I brought these cookies to a holiday party, and people were sneaking seconds behind my back—definitely a sign of success! cinnamon swirl banana bread.
Essential Ingredients
For more inspiration, check out this Thanksgiving cranberry stuffing balls recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
All-Purpose Flour: Stick with good ol’ all-purpose flour for the best texture; no fancy flours needed here.
-
Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich chocolatey base; Dutch-processed works wonders too! For more inspiration, check out this sweet potato au gratin recipe.
-
Baking Soda: This little powerhouse helps your cookies rise beautifully; don’t skip it!
-
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors; it’s like magic for your taste buds.
-
Butter: Go for unsalted butter to control the saltiness; softening it first ensures easier mixing.
-
Sugar: A mix of granulated sugar and brown sugar gives the cookies that perfect chewiness.
-
Eggs: Two large eggs bind everything together; they’re essential for achieving that soft texture.
-
Vanilla Extract: Real vanilla extract adds depth and warmth; skip the imitation stuff if you can.
-
Peppermint Extract: This gives that festive minty kick—just a drop will do!
-
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips bring rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
-
Candy Canes: Crushed candy canes add both sweetness and crunch; they’re the sparkle on top!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. cranberry apple recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper so your cookies don’t stick like old gum on a shoe.
Mix Dry Ingredients Together : In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until fully combined. This step ensures even flavor distribution—no one wants a salty surprise!
Cream Butter and Sugars : In another bowl, beat softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy. The mixture should be creamy enough that it feels like clouds—well, as close as butter can get!
Add Eggs and Flavors : Mix in eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract and peppermint extract. Incorporate them thoroughly until everything is smooth; the batter should smell like pure happiness.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients : Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix! Gently fold in chocolate chips and crushed candy canes for added excitement.
Scoop Cookie Dough Onto Baking Sheets : Use a cookie scoop or two spoons to drop dough onto prepared baking sheets about two inches apart. Trust me—these beauties spread out while baking!
Bake Until Set : Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until edges are firm but centers remain slightly soft. Let them cool on baking sheets before transferring them to wire racks because nobody wants burnt fingers!
Enjoy these delicious Christmas peppermint cookies fresh out of the oven or share them with family—they’re sure to bring joy to every household!
You Must Know
- These delicious Christmas peppermint cookies are not just tasty; they fill your kitchen with a festive aroma that’s hard to resist
- They make perfect gifts too, adding a personal touch to your holiday celebrations
- Just remember, patience is key while waiting for them to cool!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To ensure even baking, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix dry ingredients first, then cream butter and sugar before gradually combining everything for that perfect cookie dough.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out peppermint extract for vanilla if you want a different flavor twist. You can also add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor variations.
Storing & Reheating
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For quick reheating, pop them in the microwave for 10 seconds to regain that fresh-baked warmth.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- These delicious Christmas peppermint cookies are best when chilled before baking
- This helps them hold their shape and enhances flavor
- Always use high-quality peppermint extract for a vibrant taste
- Don’t skip the cooling step; it makes them easier to decorate!
Sharing these cookies with my family at our holiday gathering created such joy and laughter that I knew I’d found a new tradition worth keeping alive every year.
FAQ
What can I substitute for peppermint extract?
You can use vanilla extract or almond extract for a unique flavor twist.
How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, freeze it in portions wrapped tightly for up to three months.
Christmas Peppermint Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the festive spirit with these delightful Christmas peppermint cookies, where rich chocolate meets refreshing peppermint in a soft, chewy bite. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights by the fire, these cookies not only taste incredible but also create sweet memories. With their vibrant red and white colors, they are sure to impress your family and friends, making them a must-have addition to your holiday baking repertoire.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time along with vanilla and peppermint extracts; mix until smooth.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients into wet mixture without over-mixing. Fold in chocolate chips and crushed candy canes.
- Drop dough onto prepared baking sheets about two inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are firm but centers remain soft. Cool on wire racks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Leave a Comment