“Can you believe the holidays are right around the corner? If you’re like me, you savor every moment of festive baking, especially when it comes to these Soft and Chewy White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. This delightful treat perfectly balances the creamy sweetness of white chocolate with a refreshing peppermint crunch, making them an irresistible choice for cookie exchanges and cozy winter nights. Best of all, with a mere 10 minutes of hands-on prep and options to customize for gluten-free or dairy-free diets, you’ll find that these cookies are as easy to make as they are enjoyable. So, what festive twist will you add to your batch?”
Why Choose White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?
Irresistible flavor: The combination of creamy white chocolate and cool peppermint creates a delightful taste explosion in each bite.
Quick prep time: These cookies come together in just 10 minutes of hands-on work, making them perfect for busy holiday bakers.
Versatile customization: Whether you prefer gluten-free or dairy-free options, this recipe allows you to easily adapt and personalize your treats. Try adding dark chocolate for a richer flavor or nuts for extra crunch!
Crowd-pleasing appeal: These cookies are a festive favorite, perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or cozy evenings at home with a cup of hot cocoa.
Easy to store: Baked cookies last up to a week, and the dough can be frozen for future indulgence, ensuring your sweet cravings are always met! Enjoy with a side of Mouth Butter Cookies or a scoop of peppermint ice cream for a truly festive experience.
White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Ingredients
• Everything you need for success!
For the Cookie Base
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; can substitute with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent; ensures the cookies rise and stay fluffy.
- Baking Soda – Helps achieve the chewy texture; works hand-in-hand with baking powder.
- Salted Butter – Adds moisture and richness; use dairy-free butter for a dairy-free version.
- Granulated Sugar – Essential for sweetness and soft cookie texture.
- Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together, maintaining structure.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor and adds warmth to the cookies.
- Peppermint Extract – Delivers that classic minty flavor; adjust for a milder taste if preferred.
For the Add-Ins
- White Chocolate Chips – Offers sweetness and creaminess; dark chocolate chips can add a richer flavor.
- Crushed Candy Canes – Provides festive crunch; consider substituting with other mint candies for variety.
With these ingredients at your fingertips, you’re on your way to baking delightful White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies that are sure to be the highlight of your holiday celebrations!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your cookie dough. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your Soft and Chewy White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies bake evenly and release easily after.
Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of baking soda for about 30 seconds, ensuring all ingredients are evenly combined. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture in your cookies.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together ½ cup of softened salted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. This creates a rich base for your White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, add in 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat on low speed until everything is well combined, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully into the dough.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Carefully add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients in two additions, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to dense cookies. You want a soft, slightly sticky dough that’s ready for the add-ins.
Step 6: Fold in Add-Ins
Gently fold in 1 cup of white chocolate chips and ½ cup of crushed candy canes using a spatula, ensuring the delicious chunks are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step adds a festive touch and scrumptious bites in each cookie.
Step 7: Chill Dough
To maintain their shape and enhance chewiness, cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for about 15 minutes. This cooling period is essential for achieving perfectly baked Soft and Chewy White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.
Step 8: Scoop Dough
Once chilled, use a cookie scoop or spoon to portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, placing each cookie two inches apart. The spacing allows for even spreading and cooking, creating delightful, airy cookies.
Step 9: Bake
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake your cookies for 9 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be lightly golden around the edges while the centers remain soft and slightly underbaked, ensuring a chewy texture.
Step 10: Cool
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period allows the cookies to set properly while still maintaining their softness and delightful white chocolate and peppermint essence.
White Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful cookies; your variations will only add to the festive spirit!
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to those avoiding gluten. You won’t sacrifice taste or texture!
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter for a delicious dairy-free option. Your cookies will still be rich and satisfying.
Dark Chocolate Delight: Swap white chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a deeper, more intense flavor. This twist provides a perfect contrast to the peppermint!
Nutty Crunch: Add half a cup of your favorite chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for an extra layer of texture and flavor in every bite.
Cocoa Twist: Incorporate 1/4 cup of cocoa powder into the dry ingredients for a chocolatey take on your peppermint cookies. The result will be a deliciously unique treat!
Minty Fresh: Enhance the minty flavor by folding in crushed mint candies or a few drops of fresh mint extract. This will intensify your cookies’ refreshing profile.
Spice it Up: Sprinkle in seasonal spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for an unexpected warm twist. These spices perfectly complement the festive ambiance!
As you experiment with these variations, you may find inspiration for a delightful pairing with Lemon Meltaway Cookies or a comforting cup of Chocolate Peanut Butter Mug Cake. Enjoy the process and happy baking!
Make Ahead Options
These Soft and Chewy White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are ideal for meal prep, saving you precious time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; just cover it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Additionally, you can form cookie dough balls and freeze them for up to 3 months—simply bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute to the baking time. To maintain the cookies’ delightful texture, be sure to chill the dough before baking and use parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to indulge, bake and enjoy the same delicious holiday flavors without the hassle!
Expert Tips for White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Chill the Dough: Always refrigerate the dough for at least 15 minutes. This essential step helps the cookies maintain thickness and chewiness when baked.
Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cookie removal. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking for your white chocolate peppermint cookies.
Mixing Caution: Be careful not to overmix the dough when combining wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can result in denser cookies, so mix until just combined for that perfect soft texture.
Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies as they bake. Aim for lightly golden edges while the centers should remain soft to achieve that signature chewy bite.
Customize Wisely: Don’t hesitate to experiment with add-ins or variations! Incorporating dark chocolate or nuts can enhance the flavor profile of your white chocolate peppermint cookies.
What to Serve with Soft and Chewy White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Sink into the warmth of the season with these delightful cookies, and let your culinary adventure continue.
Rich Hot Cocoa: A cozy mug of rich hot cocoa with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa complements the minty freshness beautifully.
Spiced Chai Latte: This fragrant tea, with its blend of spices and creamy texture, pairs perfectly for a soothing sip alongside your cookies.
Peppermint Ice Cream: A scoop of peppermint ice cream creates a festive dessert duo that adds a refreshing counterpoint to the sweetness of the cookies.
Gingerbread Bars: For a treat that mirrors the warming flavors of winter, serve gingerbread bars alongside the cookies for a delightful variety.
Mini Cheesecake Bites: Silky cheesecake bites topped with a hint of peppermint or chocolate offer a creamy contrast to the crunch of the cookies.
Cranberry Spritzer: A zesty cranberry spritzer adds a fizzy brightness to your dessert table, balancing the sweetness of the cookies with a refreshing touch.
Chewy Granola Bars: For a more wholesome option, pair these cookies with chewy granola bars featuring oats and chocolate for a satisfying snack variety.
Fruit Platter: A vibrant platter of fresh fruits can provide a refreshing burst of flavor that lightens the overall sweetness.
Indulge in these pairings to elevate your holiday moments, creating sweet memories with every bite!
How to Store and Freeze White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness and softness.
Fridge: For longer-lasting cookies, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Just allow them to come back to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: Freeze cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, place them directly on a baking sheet and add an extra minute or two to the baking time.
Reheating: To refresh previously baked White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, ensuring they stay soft and gooey.
White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for the most classic result, but if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, a gluten-free flour blend works beautifully! Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binding agent to help maintain the cookie structure.
How should I store my White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?
Store your baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just let them come back to room temperature before enjoying their delightful softness!
Can I freeze White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze these cookies for up to 3 months. To do this, place the cooled cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to indulge, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If you find your cookie dough is too sticky to work with, chill it in the refrigerator for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will help firms it up and make it easier to scoop. Remember to avoid overmixing your dough initially, as this can lead to a dense texture.
Are there any allergy considerations for these cookies?
Certainly! For those with dairy allergies, substitute the salted butter with dairy-free butter and make sure the white chocolate chips are dairy-free too. If you’re dealing with nut allergies, refrain from adding any nuts. Always check labels for cross-contamination if allergies are serious.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough ahead and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough by forming balls and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just remember to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen.
Irresistibly Soft White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and baking soda for about 30 seconds.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the butter-sugar mixture and mix until well combined.
- Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients in two additions, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Gently fold in the white chocolate chips and crushed candy canes until evenly distributed.
- Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 15 minutes.
- Use a cookie scoop to portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, placing cookies two inches apart.
- Bake for 9 to 10 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges and slightly underbaked in the center.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
