Name: Chocolate Chip Cookies 7 Secrets for Perfect Peppermint Holiday Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2¼ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; ¾ cup granulated sugar; ¾ cup packed brown sugar; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1½ teaspoons pure peppermint extract; ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; ½ cup crushed peppermint candies (optional, for topping)

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Chocolate Chip Cookies are a timeless classic, but have you ever been disappointed by cookies that turn out too bland, overly sweet, or lacking that perfect chewy texture? I know I have. That’s exactly why I spent years perfecting this Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe that combines the nostalgic comfort of traditional chocolate chip cookies with a refreshing minty twist that’s absolutely irresistible.

Hi, I’m Jack, recipe developer and the heart behind Cooks Foody. I still remember the first time I attempted peppermint cookies during a busy holiday season they came out flat, overly crunchy, and the peppermint flavor was barely noticeable. After countless kitchen experiments and testing different ratios, I finally created this foolproof recipe that delivers perfectly thick, chewy cookies with just the right balance of chocolate richness and cool peppermint freshness.

This recipe promises cookies that are crispy on the edges, soft and chewy in the center, with melty chocolate chips and a delightful peppermint kick that makes them perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy winter evenings. As someone who’s tested over 50 cookie variations to find the ideal texture and flavor combination, I can confidently say this is the one you’ll make again and again.

In this guide, you’ll discover why this recipe works so well, how to choose the best chocolate chips, essential prep techniques, step-by-step baking instructions with precise temperatures, pro tips to avoid common cookie disasters, creative flavor variations, and answers to all your baking questions.

Why This Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe Works

These Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies aren’t just another cookie recipe they’re a carefully crafted combination of techniques and ingredients that guarantee success every time. Here’s what makes them special:

Uses pantry-friendly ingredients you probably already have – no specialty items or expensive extracts required beyond basic peppermint extract
Ready in just 25 minutes total from mixing bowl to cooling rack, these come together quickly for last-minute holiday needs
Perfect for any occasion elegant enough for cookie exchanges, simple enough for weeknight dessert cravings
Customizable intensity easily adjust the peppermint level to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs
Freezer-friendly dough make ahead and bake fresh cookies whenever cravings strike

The secret lies in the brown butter technique combined with the perfect flour-to-fat ratio, creating cookies with incredible depth of flavor and that coveted chewy texture everyone loves.

Choosing the Right Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the final result, so let’s break down the critical components.

Best Chocolate Chips for This Recipe

Not all chocolate chips are created equal. For these Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies, I recommend:

Semi-sweet chocolate chips are my top choice they provide balanced sweetness that complements the peppermint without overwhelming it. The 60% cacao content creates harmony between bitter and sweet notes. Dark chocolate chips (70% cacao) work beautifully if you prefer a more sophisticated, less sweet cookie with pronounced chocolate intensity. Milk chocolate chips are perfect for kids or anyone who loves sweeter treats, though they may make the overall cookie quite sugary.

For the best results, choose chips that hold their shape during baking rather than melting completely. Brands like Ghirardelli, Guittard, or even quality store brands work wonderfully.

Buying Tips

When shopping for your Chocolate Chip Cookies ingredients, look for fresh peppermint extract check the expiration date as old extract loses potency and can taste artificial. Choose pure peppermint extract over imitation for the cleanest, most authentic flavor. For chocolate chips, inspect the package to ensure they’re not bloomed (white coating) which indicates improper storage.

Substitutions

Can’t find certain ingredients? Here are perfect swaps: Replace peppermint extract with mint extract at a 1:1 ratio. Swap semi-sweet chips for chopped chocolate bars for more irregular melty pockets. Use white chocolate chips for a sweeter, creamier variation. Substitute half the chips with crushed candy canes for extra crunch and visual appeal.

Ingredients & Prep for Chocolate Chip Cookies

Cookie Dough Essentials

Getting your ingredients to the right temperature and consistency is crucial for perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies:

Start with room temperature butter (65-68°F) for proper creaming cold butter won’t incorporate air properly, while melted butter creates flat cookies. If you’re short on time, cut cold butter into small cubes and let sit for 15 minutes. Measure flour correctly using the spoon-and-level method rather than scooping directly, which compacts flour and creates dry cookies.

Crack eggs into a separate bowl first to check for freshness and avoid shell pieces. Room temperature eggs blend more smoothly into the dough, creating better texture.

Essential Ingredients List

2¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
¾ cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
1½ teaspoons pure peppermint extract
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup crushed peppermint candies (optional for topping)

Pantry Staples

Beyond the main ingredients, you’ll need vanilla extract (½ teaspoon) to enhance overall flavor complexity. Baking soda provides lift and spread, while salt balances sweetness and intensifies chocolate flavor. Brown sugar adds moisture and chewiness through its molasses content, while granulated sugar contributes to crispiness.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Chocolate Chip Cookies

Let me walk you through each stage with precision to ensure your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies turn out perfectly every time.

Pre-Baking Prep for Chocolate Chip Cookies

First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) this temperature is crucial for achieving golden edges while keeping centers soft. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.

Bring butter and eggs to room temperature if you haven’t already. Measure all dry ingredients and sift flour with baking soda and salt to eliminate lumps and ensure even distribution. This takes just two minutes but makes a significant difference in texture.

Crush peppermint candies by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and gently tapping with a rolling pin until you have small pieces, not powder.

Mixing Method for Chocolate Chip Cookies

In a large bowl, cream softened butter with both sugars using an electric mixer on medium speed for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy this incorporates air for lighter cookies. The mixture should look pale and have visible volume increase.

Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in peppermint extract and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The mixture may look slightly curdled this is normal.

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients in three additions, mixing on low speed just until no flour streaks remain. Overmixing develops gluten and creates tough cookies, so stop as soon as combined.

Fold in chocolate chips using a wooden spoon or spatula, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.

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Baking Process for Chocolate Chip Cookies

Scoop dough using a cookie scoop (2 tablespoons size) or roll into balls about 1½ inches in diameter. Place them 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets they’ll spread during baking.

For perfectly round cookies, gently press down each dough ball slightly before baking. If using crushed peppermint topping, sprinkle it on now, pressing lightly so it adheres.

Bake for 9-11 minutes, rotating the baking sheet halfway through for even browning. The Chocolate Chip Cookies are done when edges are golden brown but centers still look slightly underdone they’ll continue cooking on the hot pan after removal.

Cooling for Chocolate Chip Cookies

This step is critical: let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring. During this time, they’ll firm up and finish cooking through residual heat. Moving them too soon causes breaking, while leaving them too long makes them stick.

Transfer to a wire cooling rack using a thin spatula. Let cool completely before storing—about 20 minutes. Warm cookies are fragile and will crumble if stacked.

Pro Tips for Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies

After years of baking and countless batches, I’ve learned these game-changing techniques.

Avoiding Common Cookie Disasters with Chocolate Chip Cookies

Flat, spreading cookies happen when butter is too warm or dough isn’t chilled. Solution: refrigerate dough for 30 minutes before baking if your kitchen is warm (above 75°F). This solidifies the fat, reducing spread.

Dry, cakey texture results from too much flour or over baking. Always measure flour correctly and remove cookies when they look slightly underdone remember, they continue baking on the pan.

Uneven baking occurs with hot spots in your oven. Invest in an oven thermometer to verify actual temperature, and always rotate your pan halfway through baking time.

Bland peppermint flavor means you didn’t use enough extract or it was old. Fresh peppermint extract is potent—you should smell it clearly when opening the bottle. Start with 1½ teaspoons and adjust to taste.

Essential Tool Recommendations for Chocolate Chip Cookies

A cookie scoop (2-tablespoon capacity) ensures uniform size, which means even baking—no burnt edges while centers are raw. This $8 tool is a game-changer for consistent results.

Parchment paper or silicone baking mats prevent sticking without added grease, and cleanup becomes effortless. Silicone mats are reusable and environmentally friendly.

An oven thermometer ($10-15) helps you verify your oven’s actual temperature, as many ovens run 25°F hotter or cooler than the dial indicates.

A stand mixer or hand mixer makes creaming butter and sugar much easier, incorporating more air for lighter texture. While you can mix by hand, electric mixers save time and effort.

Storage & Reheating Tips for Chocolate Chip Cookies

Store completely cooled Chocolate Chip Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving.

To freeze unbaked dough, scoop into balls and freeze on a baking sheet until solid (2 hours), then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time perfect for fresh-baked cookies anytime.

Refresh day-old cookies by microwaving for 8-10 seconds or warming in a 300°F oven for 3-4 minutes. They’ll taste freshly baked again.

Flavor Variations for Chocolate Chip Cookies

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Here are my favorite ways to customize these Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Holiday Twist

Transform these into festive treats by adding ½ cup white chocolate chips alongside the regular chocolate chips. Drizzle cooled cookies with melted dark chocolate and immediately sprinkle with crushed candy canes. The red and white contrast creates stunning presentation for holiday parties.

Double Chocolate Version for Chocolate Chip Cookies

Replace ¼ cup flour with unsweetened cocoa powder for intensely chocolatey cookies. Use a mix of semi-sweet and dark chocolate chips for complex flavor layers. The peppermint flavor becomes even more pronounced against the deep chocolate base.

Nutty Addition

Fold in ½ cup chopped toasted pecans for added crunch and buttery flavor that complements both chocolate and peppermint beautifully. Toast nuts in a 350°F oven for 8 minutes to intensify their flavor before adding to dough.

Global-Inspired Flavors

Mexican Hot Chocolate Style: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for warming spice notes that enhance chocolate.

Italian Mint Chocolate: Use half peppermint extract and half almond extract for a sophisticated flavor profile reminiscent of Italian desserts.

French Chocolate-Mint: Add 1 tablespoon espresso powder to intensify chocolate flavor and add depth, a technique used in French patisseries.

Dietary Variations

Variation	Modification	Notes
Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies	Replace flour with gluten-free 1:1 baking flour	Add ¼ tsp xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t include it
Reduced Sugar	Use ½ cup of each sugar instead of ¾ cup	Cookies will be less chewy, slightly crisper
Dairy-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies	Use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips	Results in slightly less rich flavor but still delicious
Keto-Friendly	Use almond flour (2½ cups) and sugar substitute	Texture will be denser; reduce baking time by 2 minutes

Serving Suggestions for Chocolate Chip Cookies

These Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies are versatile enough to suit various occasions and pairings.

For holiday gatherings, arrange cookies on a festive platter with fresh mint sprigs as garnish. Dust with powdered sugar for a snow-dusted appearance that photographs beautifully.

Coffee and tea pairings elevate the experience: serve alongside peppermint hot chocolate for double-mint indulgence, pair with strong black coffee to balance sweetness, or enjoy with chai tea whose warming spices complement the cool peppermint.

Dessert platters work wonderfully create a cookie board with these Chocolate Chip Cookies alongside gingerbread cookies, shortbread, and chocolate truffles for variety.

Ice cream sandwiches made with slightly softened vanilla or mint chip ice cream between two cookies create an irresistible treat. Press gently and roll edges in mini chocolate chips, then freeze for 30 minutes before serving.

Gift packaging makes these cookies perfect for sharing: arrange 6-8 cookies in a clear cellophane bag, tie with festive ribbon, and attach a recipe card. They stay fresh for up to a week when properly packaged.

FAQs About Chocolate Chip Cookies

Can I make these Chocolate Chip Cookies without peppermint extract?

Absolutely! Simply omit the peppermint extract and increase vanilla extract to 2 teaspoons for classic chocolate chip cookies. You’ll still get the amazing chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor that makes this recipe special.

Why are my Chocolate Chip Cookies spreading too much?

Excessive spreading usually happens for three reasons: butter that’s too warm (should be room temperature, not melted), insufficient flour (measure carefully using spoon-and-level method), or dough that’s too warm. Try chilling dough for 30 minutes before baking, or refrigerate scooped dough balls for 15 minutes on the baking sheet before putting in the oven.

How do I fix overcooked Chocolate Chip Cookies?

While you can’t undo overbaking, you can salvage them: break into pieces and layer with vanilla pudding and whipped cream for a cookie trifle, crumble over ice cream as a topping, or blend into a milkshake. For future batches, remember that cookies continue baking on the hot pan after removal from the oven, so take them out when centers still look slightly underdone.

Can I use candy canes instead of peppermint extract in my Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Crushed candy canes add texture and visual appeal but don’t provide enough peppermint flavor throughout the dough. Use them as a topping along with the extract for both flavor and crunch. If you want stronger candy flavor, add ½ cup finely crushed candy canes to the dough along with 1 teaspoon peppermint extract.

Are these Chocolate Chip Cookies safe during pregnancy?

Yes! This recipe contains no ingredients that pose risks during pregnancy all components are fully cooked, there are no unpasteurized dairy products, and the extract amount is negligible. However, as with any dietary concerns during pregnancy, consult your healthcare provider if you have specific questions.

How long do Chocolate Chip Cookies stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies remain fresh and chewy for up to 5 days. For extended storage, freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months or freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 2 months. The dough actually improves after 24-48 hours of refrigeration as flavors meld together.

Can I double this Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe?

Yes! This recipe doubles perfectly for large gatherings or cookie exchanges. Mix in two separate batches rather than one huge batch for better consistency most home mixers struggle with very large quantities, leading to uneven mixing.

Conclusion

Now you have everything you need to create the most incredible Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies that will become your new holiday tradition. The combination of crispy edges, chewy centers, melty chocolate, and refreshing peppermint creates an unforgettable cookie experience that friends and family will request year after year.