Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

If you’re on the hunt for a festive, flavorful treat that perfectly balances rich chocolate with refreshing peppermint, look no further than these Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. Soft, chewy, and bursting with holiday cheer, they bring together the classic flavors of peppermint candy canes and chocolate in a way that’s utterly irresistible. Plus, they use simple ingredients, including shortening for that tender crumb, but feel free to swap in butter if you prefer a buttery twist. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, a cozy winter afternoon, or just because, these cookies are sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Why Chocolate Peppermint Cookies is Worth Your Time

There’s something magical about the combination of chocolate and peppermint—it’s a classic duo that instantly evokes cozy winter vibes. These Chocolate Peppermint Cookies aren’t just delicious; they’re easy to make and versatile. The peppermint candies add just the right amount of crunch and festive flair, while the cookie dough itself is tender, slightly chewy, and full of flavor thanks to vanilla and a hint of butter flavoring. Using shortening keeps the texture soft and light, but butter will work beautifully if you want a richer taste.

What makes these cookies stand out is their perfect balance of sweetness and minty freshness, making them an ideal treat to share with friends and family during the holiday season or any time you want a little extra cheer in your day. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, so you’ll have a batch ready in no time!

Ingredients at a Glance

• 1 cup shortening (butter works great too for a richer flavor)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon butter flavoring (optional, enhances flavor when using shortening)
• 2 drops pure peppermint extract (adds fresh mint flavor)
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (about 3 candy canes, crushed)

What’s in the Gear List

• Mixing bowls – for combining your ingredients
• Electric mixer or stand mixer – to cream shortening and sugars effortlessly
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts
• Spatula – to scrape down the bowl and fold in candies
• Baking sheets – to bake your cookies evenly
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats – to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup
• Cooling racks – for perfectly cooled cookies
• Rolling pin and plastic bag or a food processor – to crush peppermint candies

Chocolate Peppermint Cookies — Do This Next

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will help your cookies bake evenly and prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Shortening and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, use your electric mixer to cream together 1 cup shortening, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1/2 cup packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes on medium speed.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavors

Beat in 2 eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, add 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon butter flavoring (if using), and 2 drops pure peppermint extract. Mix until smooth and fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon baking soda. This helps distribute the leavening agents and salt evenly throughout the dough.

Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed or folding with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender.

Step 6: Fold in Crushed Peppermint

Gently fold in 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies. The peppermint pieces will add a delightful crunch and bursts of minty flavor throughout the cookies.

Step 7: Scoop Cookies

Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and just beginning to turn golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.

Step 9: Cool Completely

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the cookies set and prevents breakage.

Spring to Winter: Ideas

• Add white chocolate chips for an extra creamy sweetness.
• Use a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking to contrast the sweetness.
• Dip half the cooled cookies in melted dark chocolate for a decadent finish.
• Swap peppermint extract for orange extract for a citrus twist.
• Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture.
• Try rolling the dough balls in colored sugar before baking for festive flair.
• Use mini chocolate chips alongside the peppermint for double chocolate delight.

Author’s Commentary

These Chocolate Peppermint Cookies have quickly become a go-to holiday recipe in my kitchen. The use of shortening keeps them wonderfully soft, but I love experimenting with butter for a richer taste. The butter flavoring is a little secret I use when I want that buttery depth without swapping out the shortening completely.

The peppermint extract is subtle yet unmistakable, and the crushed candy canes add just the right crunch and festive look. I recommend crushing the candies finely enough so they don’t become sharp shards but still maintain some texture.

One tip: if you prefer a stronger peppermint flavor, feel free to add an extra drop of peppermint extract, but be cautious—it’s potent! Also, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help the cookies keep their shape better.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

After baking, store your Chocolate Peppermint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them fresh longer, place a slice of bread in the container to maintain moisture.

If you want to freeze the dough, shape the cookie dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet until firm. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

For baked cookies, freeze them in an airtight container layered with parchment paper for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

To reheat, pop the cookies in a warm oven (300°F / 150°C) for 5 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked softness.

Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Q&A

Can I substitute butter for shortening in this recipe?

Absolutely! Butter can be used in place of shortening in a 1:1 ratio. It will add a richer flavor and slightly different texture, often a bit denser and more buttery. The butter flavoring can be omitted if you use butter.

How do I crush peppermint candies safely?

Place the candy canes in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush them using a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan. Avoid crushing too hard to prevent sharp shards. Alternatively, pulse them a few times in a food processor.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour. Make sure your baking soda and other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

What if I don’t have peppermint extract?

If you don’t have peppermint extract, you can omit it or replace it with vanilla extract only. The crushed peppermint candies will still provide the minty flavor, but it will be milder.

One Pan, More Ideas

• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies – A timeless favorite with melty chocolate chips.
• Peanut Butter Cookies – Rich, nutty, and delightfully chewy.
• Soft Brown Butter Snickerdoodles – Cinnamon-sugar perfection with a buttery twist.
• Gingersnap Cookies – Spicy and warm, perfect for the holidays.
• Oatmeal Raisin Cookies – Chewy, wholesome, and packed with flavor.

Bring It to the Table

These Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, especially when you’re looking to add a festive touch to your cookie platter. They pair beautifully with a warm cup of hot chocolate, peppermint tea, or even a glass of cold milk. Present them on a decorative plate sprinkled with extra crushed peppermint candies for an eye-catching holiday display.

They also make wonderful edible gifts. Wrap a stack in parchment paper tied with a red or green ribbon, and you’ve got a thoughtful homemade gift that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re baking for a classroom party, an office treat, or a family gathering, these cookies bring joy and flavor to any occasion.

So go ahead, mix up a batch of these Chocolate Peppermint Cookies and savor every bite of that perfect chocolate-mint harmony. Baking season just got a whole lot sweeter!

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