Name: Soft and Chewy White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies to Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 57 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Softened to room temperature); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar; 2 large Large Eggs; 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (Pure, not imitation); 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract; 2 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Do not substitute with baking powder); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Kosher salt recommended); 1 cup White Chocolate Chips; 1/2 cup Crushed Candy Canes (Or any peppermint hard candy)

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As I pulled the first batch of cookies from the oven, a sweet, minty aroma wafted through the air, igniting my holiday spirit. It’s no secret that I adore baking, especially when it involves these delightful White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. Soft, buttery, and generously studded with creamy white chocolate and crunchy peppermint, they strike the perfect balance between festive and comforting. One of the best parts? You can whip them up in no time—ideal for last-minute gatherings! Plus, with gluten-free variations, everyone can indulge in this seasonal joy. So, whether you’re cozying up at home or hosting friends, these cookies make the perfect treat. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the essence of the holidays? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why are these cookies a holiday must-have?

Festive Imagery: Imagine cookies that invoke the joy of the holiday season with every bite. These White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies bring a delightful blend of minty freshness and sweet creaminess, making them an instant favorite.

Quick and Easy: You’ll love how simple it is to whip up these treats, perfect for last-minute gatherings or cozy nights in. No fussing over complicated techniques—just pure baking pleasure!

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of crunchy peppermint and smooth white chocolate is irresistible, ensuring your family and friends will be reaching for seconds.

Versatile Options: From Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies to Gluten-Free Peppermint Cookies, you can easily adapt the recipe to cater to everyone’s tastes and dietary needs.

Perfect for Gifting: Their charming look and festive vibes make them ideal for holiday gifting, spreading joy with every delicious bite. Make a batch and watch the smiles light up the room!

White Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Ingredients

These delightful White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies feature a festive medley of ingredients, perfect for your holiday baking.

For the Dough

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; margarine can be used for a dairy-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and enhances browning; coconut sugar serves as a lower-glycemic alternative.
Light Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and a hint of caramel flavor; dark brown sugar can deepen the taste.
Large Eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture; no substitutes recommended.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; avoid imitation for best results.
Peppermint Extract – Brings a refreshing mint flavor; crushed candy canes can be used for added texture.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; swap with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Baking Soda – Serves as a leavening agent; do not substitute with baking powder.
Salt – Enhances overall flavors; kosher salt is recommended for the best outcome.

For the Mix-ins

White Chocolate Chips – Adds creaminess and sweetness; dark chocolate chips can substitute for a richer flavor.
Crushed Candy Canes – Provides crunch and a festive appearance; any peppermint hard candy can work in a pinch.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Step 1: Prep Dough
Begin by softening unsalted butter to room temperature, then beat it together with granulated sugar and light brown sugar in a mixing bowl until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Next, add in two large eggs, along with vanilla and peppermint extracts, mixing thoroughly until well combined and creamy.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until they’re well blended. This step is vital for distributing the leavening agent evenly. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined for your White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, avoiding overmixing.

Step 3: Fold in Mix-ins
Gently fold in the white chocolate chips and crushed candy canes into the dough using a spatula. The goal is to evenly distribute the mix-ins without overworking the dough, which could make your cookies tough. Once incorporated, the dough will be thick and filled with delightful chunks of candy and chocolate.

Step 4: Chill Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Chilling is crucial for the texture of your cookies, helping prevent spreading during baking. This creates chewier, more delicious White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies that will hold their shape beautifully.

Step 5: Bake Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Once the dough is chilled, scoop tablespoons of dough and place them on the prepared sheets, leaving space between each cookie. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers remain soft and slightly underbaked.

Step 6: Cool Down
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly. Then, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of festive White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, ready to be enjoyed!

Make Ahead Options

These White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the festive flavors without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance; just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Chilling the dough is essential to maintain the right texture, preventing it from spreading too much during baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop out the desired amount and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. Then, bake as directed for cookies that are just as soft and chewy as if made fresh that day. Enjoy the gift of time while still delighting in this seasonal treat!

Storage Tips for White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Room Temperature: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.

Fridge: If you want them to last longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week, ensuring they remain fresh and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies warm, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds. This will rejuvenate their deliciousness and bring back that freshly-baked ambiance.

What to Serve with White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Indulging in freshly baked cookies invites warmth and cheer into any gathering, making these delightful treats even more special.

Hot Cocoa: A cozy mug of rich hot cocoa perfectly complements the minty sweetness of the cookies, creating a comforting duo.
Coffee: Brewed coffee adds a lovely contrast, balancing the cookies’ sweetness and awakening the palate with each satisfying sip.
Milk: Classic and nostalgic, a glass of cold milk enhances the buttery richness while encouraging you to savor each delightful bite.
Peppermint Bark: This festive treat echoes the same minty flavor while providing a delightful crunch, making it a joyful pairing.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream brings a cool contrast, melting beautifully against the warm cookies.
Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries or citrus can add brightness and freshness to your dessert spread, balancing the cookie’s sweetness.
White Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich: Take it up a notch and make a fun sandwich with ice cream between two cookies for a delightful twist!
Serve with Friends: For a festive gathering, invite loved ones to share stories and smiles while enjoying these treats together.

Expert Tips for White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Butter Temperature: Keep butter soft, not melted: For the best texture, ensure your butter is at room temperature before mixing. This helps create fluffy cookies.
Chill the Dough: Don’t skip chilling: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes prevents excessive spreading, resulting in perfectly rounded cookies.
Quality Matters: Choose good chocolate: Opt for high-quality white chocolate; cheap chocolate can lead to a waxy texture and flavor in your cookies.
Correct Measurements: Measure flour accurately: Use a kitchen scale or spoon flour into a measuring cup without packing it down, avoiding excess flour that can make cookies dry.
Creative Additions: Get creative with mix-ins: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruit for additional texture and flavor; just remember to adjust the quantity of white chocolate chips accordingly.
Sugar Substitutions: Consider alternatives for sweetness: If aiming for a healthier version, try coconut sugar; it gives a pleasant caramel flavor while being lower in glycemic index.

White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize these cookies to suit any occasion or taste!

Double Chocolate: Replace some of the flour with cocoa powder for a delightful chocolatey twist. Your cookie experience transforms into a rich and festive delight!
Dark Chocolate: Substitute dark chocolate chips for half of the white chocolate for a profound flavor balance. This variation adds depth while retaining the festive flair.
Peppermint Bark: Fold in chopped peppermint bark for extra texture and flavor. It combines chocolate and mint perfectly for an irresistible treat!
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to ensure those with dietary restrictions can enjoy these delightful cookies too. They’ll be just as soft and chewy as the original!
Mint Chocolate Chip: Add some mini chocolate chips to the dough along with white chocolate for an exciting flavor dynamic. This gives a classic combination a delightful holiday twist!
Spicy Peppermint: For a kick of heat, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon into the dough. This unexpected twist offers a lovely warmth that dances on your palate.
Candy Cane Toppers: Instead of folding in crushed candy canes, place a piece on top of each cookie before baking. They’ll get slightly melted and create a beautiful decoration!
Nutty Addition: Toss in some finely chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor. The nuts add a lovely texture contrast with the creamy chocolate!

If you’re searching for more delicious treats, consider making some Chocolate Banana Protein for a healthier option or indulge in the classic goodness of Chocolate Chip Cookies. Each offers its unique charm and deliciousness!

White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right peppermint for these cookies?
I recommend using pure peppermint extract for concentrated flavor. If you prefer texture, crushed candy canes can also be delightful. Just ensure they’re finely crushed to avoid large chunks that might not melt during baking.

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?
To keep your White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week without sacrificing moisture.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! For freezing, place the cookies on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They will maintain their deliciousness for up to 3 months. Just let them thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying!

What should I do if the cookie dough is too sticky?
If your cookie dough feels too sticky, it may need a bit more flour. Start by adding a couple of tablespoons, mixing gently until the dough reaches a manageable consistency. Alternatively, you can chill the dough for about 30 minutes, as this helps firm it up and makes for easier handling.

Are there any common allergens in this recipe?
Yes, this recipe contains common allergens such as eggs and dairy. For a dairy-free option, you can substitute unsalted butter with margarine and use dairy-free chocolate chips. If you have other dietary restrictions, feel free to adapt the ingredients as needed to suit your needs!

Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes! You can make the dough ahead of time and chill it for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and bake as directed for fresh cookies that capture the festive spirit!