Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe

Chewy, Festive, and Loaded with Chocolate and Peppermint Flavor

If you’re dreaming of Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies that are perfectly soft, slightly chewy, and bursting with a cool mint aroma, this is your go-to Christmas cookie recipe. These cookies are everything you love about a classic chocolate chip cookie, with a festive peppermint twist that makes them ideal for the holidays. Because they’re easy to make and guaranteed to impress, you’ll find yourself baking them on repeat throughout December. And yes, they’ll make your kitchen smell like pure Christmas joy.

These chocolate peppermint cookies combine melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla, and a touch of peppermint extract to create the ultimate soft-baked texture. The addition of crushed candy canes adds a delightful crunch, while the chocolate chips melt into pockets of gooey sweetness. Therefore, each bite feels like a warm, comforting hug wrapped in holiday cheer. Because they blend the richness of chocolate and the brightness of mint, they’re the perfect addition to any Christmas dessert spread.

Why You’ll Love These Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

You’ll love these cookies because they’re festive, simple, and impossible to resist. Unlike dry or crumbly cookies, these are soft, chewy, and infused with the refreshing flavor of peppermint. Additionally, they pair beautifully with a glass of milk or a mug of hot cocoa. Because they’re both elegant and nostalgic, they’re perfect for Christmas cookie exchanges or as edible gifts. For more fun holiday bakes, try the Soft Christmas Sprinkle Cookies or the ultra-fun Christmas Kitchen Sink Cookies.

These cookies are the kind that make people smile the second they take a bite. The combination of chocolate and peppermint is timeless, but the super-soft texture sets these apart from the rest. Because every bite offers a balance of smooth chocolate and refreshing mint, they’re equally loved by kids and adults. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, office gathering, or simply enjoying some family time, these Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies will make your table sparkle with joy.

Ingredients for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

For this peppermint cookie recipe, gather these simple ingredients:

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
  • 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon pure alcohol-free vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
Flat lay of peppermint chocolate chip cookie ingredients including flour, butter, sugars, chocolate chips, crushed candy canes, eggs, and extracts.

Because the dough chills before baking, it ensures your cookies stay soft and thick. Therefore, don’t skip the chill step it’s the secret to achieving that bakery-style texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Soft Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures your leavening agents are evenly distributed, leading to evenly baked cookies. When your dry mix is uniform, your cookies bake more consistently and rise perfectly.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the melted butter with both sugars until smooth and glossy. Add the egg, egg yolk, vanilla, and peppermint extract. Because peppermint can be strong, measure carefully a little goes a long way. The combination of brown sugar and butter helps create that irresistibly chewy texture.

Creamy cookie dough being mixed in a glass bowl with a white stand mixer paddle attachment.

Step 3: Combine and Add Chocolate Chips

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined. Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and white chocolate chips. Finally, fold in the crushed candy canes for that signature festive crunch. Each ingredient adds depth chocolate for richness, candy canes for color, and peppermint for that unmistakable Christmas scent.

Cover the dough and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. Chilling prevents spreading, helping you achieve perfectly thick, chewy peppermint chocolate chunk cookies. Because the dough rests, the flavors meld beautifully, creating a richer and more balanced cookie.

Step 5: Bake Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop the dough into balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly underdone they’ll continue baking on the tray. Let them cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack. Because you let the cookies finish cooking on the baking sheet, they stay soft in the center while the edges turn delightfully crisp.

Top view of peppermint chocolate chip cookie dough balls with crushed candy canes and chocolate chunks on parchment paper.

Pro Tips for the Best Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

  1. Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing.
  2. Always chill the dough; this step enhances flavor and texture.
  3. Sprinkle extra crushed candy canes on top before baking for a pretty, snowy finish.
  4. If you love double chocolate mint cookies, replace half the flour with cocoa powder.
  5. To keep cookies chewy, store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread.

For an elegant dessert pairing, serve alongside the Christmas Crack Recipe or the delicious Easy Truffles Christmas. You can even create a holiday dessert board featuring these cookies, truffles, and chocolate bark for a show-stopping centerpiece.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Because they retain their softness beautifully, you’ll love how fresh they taste even after a few days. For longer storage, freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. To bake, simply place them on a tray and add an extra minute or two to the baking time. This makes them ideal for holiday prep or quick dessert cravings.

If you plan ahead for Christmas gatherings, you can even bake these cookies in advance and freeze them after cooling. To serve, let them thaw for about 15 minutes, or warm them in the oven for a fresh-baked aroma that fills your home with cozy holiday cheer.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

You can easily customize these minty chocolate cookies for your family’s taste. Try adding chopped peppermint bark for a richer flavor, or drizzle melted white chocolate on top after baking for extra flair. You can also skip the peppermint extract and use almond or alcohol-free vanilla extract for a different twist. Because this base dough is so versatile, it adapts beautifully to any flavor theme, making it one of the best holiday cookie ideas for your Christmas baking collection.

Another creative twist is to make sandwich cookies by layering marshmallow fluff or chocolate ganache between two peppermint cookies. As a result, you’ll have a bakery-quality treat perfect for gifting or holiday dessert tables. You can also crumble these cookies over ice cream for a festive sundae or use them to decorate a peppermint trifle.

Serving Ideas for Christmas

Serve these cookies on a festive platter surrounded by candy canes, mini marshmallows, and ribbons for an extra holiday touch. They pair wonderfully with hot chocolate or peppermint mocha. If you’re hosting a cookie exchange, these homemade Christmas cookies will disappear first. For even more Christmas dessert inspiration, check out our Halloween Swirl Cream Cheese Brownies or the sophisticated Brie Pear Bites Christmas.

Because presentation adds magic to every dessert, try serving these cookies with a dusting of powdered sugar and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint on top. Pair them with peppermint tea or even eggnog for an unforgettable Christmas flavor experience. They also make beautiful additions to gift boxes tied with red ribbons guaranteed to bring smiles wherever they go.

Troubleshooting Common Baking Issues

  • Flat cookies: Chill the dough longer or use parchment paper instead of greasing the tray.
  • Too minty: Reduce peppermint extract slightly; peppermint strength varies by brand.
  • Hard cookies: Do not overbake; remove them while the centers are still soft.
  • Uneven baking: Rotate trays halfway through for even color and texture.
  • Dry texture: Always measure flour accurately and avoid overmixing the dough.

Because baking is both an art and a science, taking your time with these steps ensures bakery-quality cookies every time.

Close-up view of gooey peppermint chocolate chip cookies topped with melted chocolate chunks and crushed candy canes.

FAQs About Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Can I make these cookies without candy canes?

Yes, simply skip them or substitute crushed peppermint bark. The cookies will still have a delicious minty flavor.

How do I keep the cookies soft after baking?

Store them in a sealed container with a small slice of bread. The moisture from the bread helps maintain that chewy texture.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chips?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate adds a deeper flavor that balances the sweetness of the candy canes.

Can I double this recipe for a cookie exchange?

Yes. Double all ingredients and bake in batches. Be sure to chill the dough between rounds.

How far in advance can I make the dough?

You can prepare the dough up to three days ahead and refrigerate it tightly covered. This even enhances the flavor, making them the best peppermint desserts for planning ahead.

Can I turn this recipe into cookie bars?

Yes, spread the dough into a lined baking pan and bake for 20–22 minutes. Slice into squares once cooled for chewy, minty cookie bars.

How can I make them gluten-free?

Use a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend, and the results will still be soft, chewy, and festive.

Conclusion

These Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies bring together everything you love about the holidays: comforting textures, rich chocolate flavor, and that unmistakable cooling peppermint touch. Because they’re simple to make and incredibly festive, they deserve a permanent spot in your Christmas baking tradition. Share them with family, friends, or anyone who needs a little extra sweetness this season.

Whether you’re a busy parent, a student grabbing Christmas treats on the go, or anyone hungry for something wholesome and delicious, this recipe fits the bill. Don’t forget to leave a comment or tag us with your cooking success! Follow Daily Tasty Recipe on Pinterest and Instagram for more inspiration.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Close-up of freshly baked peppermint chocolate chip cookies topped with melted chocolate and crushed candy canes cooling on a wire rack.

Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Papa Mason
  • Total Time: 32 minutes + chilling
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x

Description

These Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with festive peppermint and chocolate flavor. Perfect for the holidays, they combine melted butter, brown sugar, and peppermint extract for a cozy Christmas aroma. Each bite brings rich chocolate, refreshing mint, and a delightful candy cane crunch a must-bake for the holiday season.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
  • 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 teaspoon pure alcohol-free vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
  • 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk melted butter with both sugars until smooth and glossy.
  3. Add the egg, egg yolk, vanilla, and peppermint extract, mixing well.
  4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, stirring until just combined.
  5. Fold in chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, and crushed candy canes.
  6. Cover dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  8. Scoop dough into balls and place on baking sheet.
  9. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are set but centers are slightly underbaked.
  10. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Notes

Chill the dough for thicker cookies. Sprinkle extra crushed candy canes on top before baking for a festive touch. To keep cookies soft, store in an airtight container with a slice of bread.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 160
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 80mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star