White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

There’s something magical about the combination of white chocolate and peppermint that instantly transports me into a winter wonderland, and that’s exactly what White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies do! These delightful treats are not just any ordinary cookie; they’re a festive celebration of flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Picture soft, chewy cookies packed with creamy white chocolate chunks and a refreshing burst of cool peppermint—what’s not to love?

What truly makes this recipe special is how it brings together the rich sweetness of white chocolate and the invigorating zing of peppermint, creating a unique flavor profile that’s perfect for the holiday season or any time you want to feel a little festive. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a cookie swap, or just to enjoy at home with a cup of hot cocoa, these cookies are sure to become a favorite. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why they’re a must-bake for any cookie lover!

Ingredient Notes

When it comes to making delicious White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, selecting the right ingredients is essential for achieving that perfect balance of flavors. Here are the key ingredients you’ll need, along with some handy substitutions:

All-purpose flour: This is the base for your cookies. If you need a gluten-free option, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Granulated sugar: Provides sweetness. You can substitute half the amount with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
White chocolate chips: These are the star of the show! You can use chopped white chocolate bars if you prefer larger chunks, or for a dairy-free option, look for dairy-free white chocolate alternatives.
Peppermint extract: This gives the cookies their signature flavor. If you want a milder peppermint taste, use mint extract instead.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal for baking. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
Eggs: They help bind the ingredients together. For a vegan alternative, you can use flax eggs or applesauce.
Baking soda: This helps the cookies rise. Make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
Crushed peppermint candies: These add a delightful crunch and extra peppermint flavor. You can swap them with crushed candy canes if you prefer.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into making these delightful White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies!

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs and extract: Mix in 2 large eggs, one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract, ensuring everything is fully combined.
Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Fold in the goodies: Gently fold in 1 cup of white chocolate chips and 1/2 cup of crushed peppermint candies, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Drop the dough: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake: Place the sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look a little soft; that’s okay!
Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Tips & Suggestions

Here are some tips to ensure your White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies turn out perfectly:

Chill the dough: If you have time, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances their flavor.
Don’t overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookies.
Variations: Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty flavor boost or consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies for an extra touch of sweetness.
Serving suggestions: These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a warm cup of hot chocolate, perfect for cozy evenings.

Storage

To keep your White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

Room temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Refrigeration: If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent them from drying out.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature.

Enjoy baking and savoring your delightful White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies! They are sure to bring a festive cheer to any occasion.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a festive treat that perfectly balances the sweetness of white chocolate with the refreshing zing of peppermint, then these White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are an absolute must-try! Each bite delivers a delightful crunch followed by a melt-in-your-mouth experience, making them the perfect addition to your holiday baking. Not only are they delicious, but they also fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma that sets the mood for celebration. So gather your loved ones and whip up a batch of these scrumptious cookies; I promise they will bring joy and smiles to everyone who tries them. Happy baking!