Description

These Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic chocolate chip cookie, combining rich chocolate chips with a refreshing hint of peppermint. Ideal for the holidays or any time you crave a festive treat, these cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with minty flavor thanks to the peppermint extract and optional crushed peppermint candies topping.

Ingredients

Cookie Dough Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2.5 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
0.5 teaspoon salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
0.5 teaspoon peppermint extract

Topping

0.5 cup crushed peppermint candies (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract to infuse the dough with mint flavor.
Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly throughout the dough.
Chill the dough (optional): For better texture and easier handling, cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before baking. This step can be skipped if you’re short on time.
Preheat the oven: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Shape and top the cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If desired, gently press some crushed peppermint candies onto the tops of each cookie for an added festive crunch and minty flavor.
Bake: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers remain soft. Avoid overbaking to maintain the chewy texture.
Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the cookies set properly and enhances their flavor.

Notes

Use softened butter at room temperature for the best cookie texture.
The crushed peppermint candies are optional but add a lovely festive touch and extra peppermint taste.
Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and creates chewier cookies.
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a vegan butter alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips.