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The air is filled with a minty allure, making it impossible to resist these Soft and Chewy White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. With just 10 minutes of hands-on preparation, you’ll have a batch of these festive delights baking away in no time. Whether you’re sharing them at a cookie exchange or enjoying a cozy night in, they offer the perfect combination of soft, chewy centers and a delightful crunch from crushed candy canes. Plus, with options for gluten-free and dairy-free variations, everyone can indulge in this holiday classic. Are you ready to treat yourself and your loved ones to a sweet bite of winter magic? Let’s get baking!
Why Are These Cookies a Must-Bake?
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet white chocolate paired with peppermint creates a festive explosion of taste in every bite.
Quick Prep Time: With only 10 minutes of hands-on prep, you can whip up a batch in no time, making them perfect for last-minute cookie exchanges or cozy evenings.
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Customizable Options: Easily adjust for dietary needs with gluten-free or dairy-free swaps, allowing everyone to enjoy these treats. For a delightful twist, consider trying a mix of white and dark chocolate to cater to all palates.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These cookies are not just a personal favorite; they’re sure to impress family and friends at holiday gatherings or parties. Pair them with a warm beverage like hot cocoa or a spiced chai latte for the ultimate winter experience!
Memorable Texture: The combination of chewy centers and crunchy candy canes ensures a unique texture that makes these cookies unforgettable—just like a winter wonderland in your mouth!
White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Ingredients
For the Batter
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture; substitute with a gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free version.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for lightness during baking.
- Baking Soda – Enhances the cookie’s rise and texture for that perfect softness.
- Salted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; swap with dairy-free butter for a dairy-free option.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and helps achieve a delightful chewy texture.
- Egg – Serves as a binding agent to keep the dough together.
- Vanilla Extract – Elevates the overall flavor complexity with a warm essence.
- Peppermint Extract – Infuses the cookies with a festive minty flavor; use less for a milder taste.
- White Chocolate Chips – Brings sweetness and creaminess; replace with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Crushed Candy Canes – Adds festive texture and crunch; increase quantity for more crunch or use as a topping.
Indulge in the joy of baking these White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, perfect for any holiday occasion!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper, ensuring easy cookie removal later. This step is crucial as it prepares a perfect environment for your White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies to achieve their delightful texture.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda until well combined. The mixture should appear light and airy, indicating that the leavening agents are evenly distributed. This blend will contribute to the soft, chewy texture you’re aiming for in your cookies.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together 3/4 cup of salted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, appearing pale in color. This process incorporates air into the dough, setting the stage for your soft White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.
Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
Beat in 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract into the creamed mixture until fully combined. The batter should look smooth and unified, giving off a sweet, inviting aroma. Make sure the egg is at room temperature for the best mixing results.
Step 5: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until it’s combined. You want to avoid overmixing, as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky, eagerly awaiting its delicious add-ins.
Step 6: Fold in the White Chocolate and Candy Canes
Gently fold in 1 cup of white chocolate chips and 1/2 cup of crushed candy canes until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. The chips should be visible, hinting at the delightful sweetness awaiting you in each bite of these cookies. This step brings a festive touch that’s essential for your White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.
Step 7: Chill the Dough
Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 15 minutes. This chilling process helps the dough firm up, ensuring your cookies maintain the perfect shape while baking—crucial for achieving those soft, chewy centers.
Step 8: Scoop the Dough onto the Baking Sheet
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, place rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows for spreading during baking. The dough should start to feel slightly firm after chilling, making it easier to handle as you prepare for the oven.
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 9-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them—when the edges turn lightly golden but the centers still look soft, it’s time to take them out. This visual cue is key to ensuring that your White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies remain delightfully chewy.
Step 10: Cool and Transfer
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, allowing them to set slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. This resting time ensures that the cookies will maintain their shape while still being soft in the center. Once on the rack, they’ll be ready for indulging!
Make Ahead Options
These Soft and Chewy White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor. You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by covering it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerating. This helps deepen the flavors while maintaining that chewy texture. If you want to prep even further ahead, scoop the unbaked cookie dough onto a baking sheet, freeze the individual dough balls until firm, then transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just pop them straight into the oven and increase the baking time by a minute or two for delightful, fresh-baked cookies that taste just as delicious!
What to Serve with Soft and Chewy White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Nothing enhances the joy of holiday baking like the perfect accompaniments to these festive treats.
- Hot Cocoa: A rich cup of hot cocoa adds warmth and coziness, perfectly complementing the minty sweetness of the cookies.
- Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai balance beautifully with peppermint and white chocolate, creating a delightful flavor pairing.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad brings a burst of color and brightness, cutting through the richness of the cookies.
- Chocolate Mint Ice Cream: This indulgent ice cream pairs well with the cookies’ flavors, making the ultimate sweet duo for dessert lovers.
- Gingerbread Bars: The spiced, molasses notes of gingerbread cookies provide a festive contrast to the creamy sweetness of your peppermint treats.
- Homemade Eggnog: A glass of creamy eggnog, spiced with nutmeg and cinnamon, enhances the holiday spirit and complements the cookies perfectly.
- Green Salad with Citrus Dressing: A fresh salad with citrus accents offers a palate cleanser amidst all the sweetness—refreshing and balanced!
- Peppermint Milkshake: Indulge in a decadent peppermint milkshake, marrying well with the cookies for a truly festive dessert experience.
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. This keeps them soft and chewy, ready to enjoy anytime.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Enjoy them chilled for a different texture!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months, ideal for saving leftovers or prepping ahead.
Reheating: To revive their softness, microwave the cookies for 10-15 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes. This brings back that delightful, chewy texture!
Expert Tips for White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough ensures your cookies keep their shape while baking. Don’t skip this step for perfectly soft centers!
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Mind the Bake Time: Avoid overbaking to keep those chewy textures intact. Remove cookies just as the edges turn golden, letting the centers remain soft.
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Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment makes for easy cleanup and helps prevent sticking, ensuring your White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies come off smoothly.
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Measure Flour Correctly: Accurate flour measurement is key to preventing flat cookies. Consider using the spoon-and-level method for best results!
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Adjust Mint Flavor: Start with less peppermint extract and add more if desired. It’s easier to increase flavor than to tone it down once added!
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Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to add nuts or use different types of chocolate. Customizing your cookies can delight everyone at your holiday gatherings!
White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your cookies to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and ensure white chocolate chips are also dairy-free. This option keeps the creamy texture alive without compromising flavor.
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Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Your cookies will still have the same delicious taste, perfect for your gluten-sensitive friends!
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Dark Chocolate: Switch white chocolate chips with rich dark chocolate for a deep flavor. The contrast between the sweetness of peppermint and the richness of dark chocolate is divine.
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Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture. The nuts elevate the cookies’ richness and pair beautifully with the sweetness of white chocolate.
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Seasonal Spices: Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic twist. These spices enhance the festive vibe, bringing cozy winter flavors to life.
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Cocoa Twist: For a delightful chocolate version, mix in 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder with the dry ingredients. The result? A decadent, chocolatey peppermint treat that’s simply irresistible!
These variations ensure there’s a perfect cookie for everyone to enjoy! If you’re looking for more sweet ideas, why not check out my Strawberry Chocolate Cookies or indulge in some Raspberry White Chocolate Tartlets?
White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best peppermint for my cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting peppermint extract, go for pure extracts instead of imitation ones for a more robust flavor. If you’re looking for a milder taste, start with half the recommended amount and adjust according to your preference. Fresh or crushed candy canes can add not just flavor but also a delightful crunch, so check for vibrant colors without dark spots.
How should I store my White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to enjoy them for a longer time, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to place parchment paper between layers if you’re stacking them to avoid sticking!
Can I freeze the cookie dough or baked cookies?
Yes! For optimal freshness, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Here’s how: After mixing, scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Then, transfer to a freezer bag or container. For baked cookies, freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, or bake straight from frozen for an additional 2-3 minutes!
What can I do if my cookies turn out too flat?
Very! Flat cookies can often be a result of too much butter or overmixing the dough. Ensure you measure the flour accurately, using the spoon-and-level method, which can prevent oversaturation. Also, chilling the dough helps maintain their shape when baking, so don’t skip that step!
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Of course! This recipe can easily accommodate various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, replace the salted butter with a dairy-free alternative and ensure any chocolate chips used are dairy-free as well. Enjoy a treat that everyone can love!
Perfectly Soft White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies to Savor
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 flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until combined.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in white chocolate chips and crushed candy canes.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for at least 15 minutes.
- Scoop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
- Bake for 9-10 minutes until edges are golden but centers are soft.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
