As I stood in my kitchen, the invigorating scent of peppermint wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy winter wonderland. Today, I’m thrilled to share my beloved recipe for White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. These delightful morsels are not only a simple way to feed your sweet tooth but also a perfect blend of festive cheer and creamy sweetness. With just a quick prep time of 20 minutes, you'll have a batch ready to share at your next holiday gathering or to enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa. Plus, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, bringing smiles to everyone who bites into that soft, chewy goodness. Ready to whip up a batch of magic? Let's dive in and make some holiday memories together!
Why are these cookies a holiday must?
Irresistible Flavor: These cookies combine creamy white chocolate with refreshing peppermint, creating a delightful bite that feels like a cozy winter hug.
Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes of prep, you’ll have warm cookies ready to enjoy in no time!
Festive Appeal: Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, these cookies will surely brighten your day and bring a smile to your face.
Crowd Favorite: Their unique blend of flavors and textures makes them a guaranteed hit, sure to impress friends and family alike. For more delightful cookies, check out my classic chocolate chip recipe.
Versatile Treat: Ideal for sharing or enjoying solo, you can even package them as delightful gifts!
White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Ingredients
• Get ready to bake some deliciousness!
For the Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter – brings rich flavor and a soft texture to your cookies.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – adds sweetness and contributes to the cookies' delightful chewiness.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar – enhances moisture and provides a warm, caramel undertone.
- 2 large eggs – vital for binding and providing structure to the cookie dough.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – infuses a lovely aromatic essence that compliments the peppermint.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour – the backbone of your cookies, giving them just the right amount of structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – helps the cookies rise beautifully, keeping them soft and fluffy.
- ½ teaspoon salt – enhances the sweetness and balances out the flavors perfectly.
For the Mix-Ins
- 1½ cups white chocolate chips – melt in your mouth with creamy sweetness, elevating the cookies to new heights.
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract – adds an extra burst of minty freshness, making these cookies a festive delight.
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes – provide a delightful crunch and a pop of festive color.
Dive into this easy recipe and treat yourself to a batch of irresistible White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and allow for easy cleanup, setting the stage for your delightful White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of packed brown sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream these ingredients together on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your cookies.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Extracts
Next, beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition to incorporate them fully. Follow this with 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract, stirring until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. The delightful scent will already fill your kitchen!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This dry mixture will give your cookies structure and help them rise beautifully. Once well combined, gradually introduce the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently to avoid over-mixing, which can result in tough cookies.
Step 5: Fold in Mix-Ins
Now it’s time to bring in the festive flavors! Carefully fold in 1½ cups of white chocolate chips and ½ cup of crushed peppermint candies using a spatula. The goal is to evenly distribute these delicious mix-ins throughout the dough without overworking it. Your cookie dough should now be sweet, creamy, and full of peppermint crunch.
Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Make sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each scoop, as the cookies will spread while baking. This will ensure they bake evenly and don’t stick together, resulting in perfectly shaped White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies; they’re ready when the edges are lightly golden and the centers may appear slightly undercooked. This is normal, as they will continue to set while cooling. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Step 8: Cool the Cookies
After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack. Carefully move them to the rack to cool completely, where they will become the perfect chewy, gooey treat just waiting to be devoured.
How to Store and Freeze White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness and softness.
Fridge: If you want them to last a bit longer, place the cookies in the fridge, where they'll stay fresh for up to a week. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy that fresh-baked taste, reheat cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes before serving.
What to Serve with White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
The delightful sweetness and festive flair of these cookies can inspire a charming holiday spread, perfect for any gathering or cozy night in.
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Classic Hot Cocoa: This rich, warm beverage complements the minty flavors, creating a cozy pairing that feels like a hug in a mug. It's the perfect holiday treat!
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Eggnog Latte: Adding a festive twist, this creamy coffee drink enhances the cookies' sweetness and creates a comforting atmosphere that delights the senses.
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Peppermint Bark: The crunchy and creamy layers elevate your dessert table while echoing the peppermint notes in the cookies. Perfect for indulging in seasonal flavors.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like pomegranate and orange adds brightness, counterbalancing the sweetness of the cookies. The burst of juices will wake up your palate!
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Gingerbread Men: These spiced cookies bring a classic holiday vibe, offering different textures while making your dessert spread feel abundant and festive.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Warm, spiced apple cider serves as a soothing drink option, with its aromatic spices framing the cookie’s peppermint nuances perfectly for a cozy feel.
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Chocolate Mint Cheesecake: Layered and rich, this dessert echoes the creamy chocolate notes, providing a decadent finish to your sweet spread. It’s an oh-so-sweet celebration!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the warm cookies, offering a delightful contrast of hot and cold while making every bite indulgent.
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Cranberry Fizz: This sparkling drink adds a festive touch of tartness that cuts through the sweetness and cleanses the palate, making every bite of cookie feel like a new experience.
Tips for the Best White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
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Use Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your unsalted butter is softened well at room temperature. This helps achieve a creamy texture, leading to perfectly fluffy cookies.
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Don’t Over-Mix: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Over-mixing can lead to tough White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies instead of light and chewy ones.
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Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They might look slightly undercooked in the center, but they'll continue to set while cooling. This keeps them soft and delicious!
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Chill the Dough (Optional): For extra chewy cookies, consider chilling your dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This can also help hold their shape better while baking.
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Store Properly: Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container. They stay fresher longer and maintain that delightful chewy texture you adore!
White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies for a truly delightful experience!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to ensure everyone can enjoy these cookies without worry.
Give it a try; the texture can be just as delightful! -
Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or almonds for a crunchy contrast to the soft cookie.
The nuttiness pairs beautifully with the creamy white chocolate and sweet peppermint. -
Dark Chocolate Delight: Swap white chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor profile.
This version offers a deliciously decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore! -
Minty Chocolate: Incorporate ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips along with the white chocolate for a cool minty chocolate combination.
This adds a layer of complexity and a burst of flavors that’s hard to resist! -
Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a surprise heat that complements the sweetness.
This bold contrast makes every bite an adventure! -
Peppermint Bark Remix: Use crushed peppermint bark instead of candy canes for a more intense peppermint flavor and a bit of chocolatey goodness.
It's an excellent way to use up any leftover holiday treats! -
Chocoholic Version: Add cocoa powder to the dry ingredients, reducing flour by ¼ cup to create a chocolate version of these festive cookies.
You'll love how the rich chocolate pairs with the peppermint! -
Festive Sprinkles: Top your dough balls with colorful holiday sprinkles before baking for a fun, festive flair.
These cookies will not only taste great but look like a holiday celebration!
Make Ahead Options
These White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps the flavors meld beautifully and keeps your cookies just as delicious after baking. Additionally, you can scoop the dough onto baking sheets, cover it with plastic wrap, and freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let the dough balls sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes, then bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy fresh cookies with minimal effort, making your busy holiday season a little sweeter!
White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right peppermint extract?
Absolutely! When selecting peppermint extract, opt for a pure extract rather than imitation. Pure peppermint extract provides a stronger, more authentic flavor, enhancing your White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies beautifully. Make sure the extract doesn’t contain any artificial flavors or additives for the best taste experience!
How should I store leftover cookies?
To keep your White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you refrigerate them, they can last for about a week; just make sure to allow them to come back to room temperature before enjoying for that delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience!
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough! After scooping rounded balls of dough, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, add an additional minute to the baking time and enjoy fresh cookies anytime!
Why are my cookies spreading too much while baking?
Very often, this can happen due to using warm butter instead of softened butter. Be sure to let your butter reach room temperature (soft, but not melted) before mixing. Also, check that your baking soda is fresh, as old leavening agents can alter the cookie's structure. Lastly, it’s helpful to chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking, which helps maintain shape!
Are these cookies safe for pets?
Not at all! It's best to avoid sharing these White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies with your furry friends since ingredients like chocolate and peppermint can be toxic to dogs, and sugar isn’t good for them either. If you're looking for a treat to share with your pets, consider some wholesome dog-friendly snacks instead.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
When baking, check your cookies around the 10-minute mark. They’re ready when the edges are lightly golden, but the centers may still appear slightly undercooked. This is the perfect time to remove them from the oven, as they will continue to firm up while cooling on the baking sheet! Enjoy your cookies fresh out of the oven!
Delicious White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies to Brighten Your Day
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- cookie scoop
- Baking sheets
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter brings rich flavor and a soft texture to your cookies
- 1 cup granulated sugar adds sweetness and contributes to the cookies' delightful chewiness
- 1 cup packed brown sugar enhances moisture and provides a warm, caramel undertone
- 2 large eggs vital for binding and providing structure
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract infuses a lovely aromatic essence that compliments the peppermint
- 3 cups all-purpose flour the backbone of your cookies, giving them just the right amount of structure
- 1 teaspoon baking soda helps the cookies rise beautifully
- ½ teaspoon salt enhances the sweetness and balances out the flavors
For the Mix-Ins
- 1½ cups white chocolate chips melt in your mouth with creamy sweetness
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract adds an extra burst of minty freshness
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes provide a delightful crunch and a pop of festive color
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well, then stir in vanilla and peppermint extracts.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt, then gradually mix into the wet ingredients.
- Fold in the white chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies.
- Drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden and centers look slightly undercooked.
- Let cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
