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As the holiday season envelops us, there’s something magical about the scent of fresh-baked cookies wafting through the house. Enter my Soft and Chewy White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies—a delightful combination that marries the creaminess of white chocolate with the invigorating zing of peppermint. These cookies are not just easy to whip up in just 10 minutes of prep time; they also promise to impress your friends and family with their festive flair. With gluten-free and dairy-free options, they’re perfect for accommodating various diets while still feeling indulgent—a must-have for cookie exchanges or cozy evenings by the fire. So, are you ready to make your holiday gatherings shine with these little treats? Let’s dive in!
Why Choose White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?
Festive Flair: These cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday gathering, bringing a pop of color and cheer to your dessert table.
Quick Prep Time: With only 10 minutes of hands-on time, you can whip these up effortlessly to satisfy those cookie cravings.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily cater to your guests with gluten-free and dairy-free alternatives, ensuring everyone can enjoy a sweet treat.
Flavor Explosion: The creamy white chocolate combined with refreshing peppermint creates a festive flavor profile that will leave everyone wanting more.
Versatile Treat: Great for cookie exchanges or paired with hot cocoa or peppermint ice cream, these cookies are the ultimate holiday companion.
White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture for the cookies. Gluten-free option available.
• Baking Powder – Helps the cookies rise, making them light and fluffy. Ensure freshness for best results.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent, enhancing the cookies’ texture. Used in conjunction with baking powder for optimal results.
• Salted Butter – Adds richness and depth of flavor. Substitute with dairy-free butter for a non-dairy version.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and helps achieve a tender texture. Brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
• Large Egg – Acts as a binding agent to maintain cookie structure. Vital for the cookie’s success.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile. Use pure extract for best results.
• Peppermint Extract – Provides that classic holiday flavor. Reduce quantity for a milder taste or substitute with peppermint oil starting with just a drop.
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For the Mix-ins
• White Chocolate Chips – Adds sweetness and creaminess. Dark chocolate can be used for a richer flavor.
• Crushed Candy Canes – Infuses festive crunch and peppermint flavor. Use as a topping for extra decoration and flavor.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft and Chewy White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin your festive baking by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, creating a non-stick surface for your cookies. This preparation step is crucial for ensuring your Soft and Chewy White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies bake evenly and can be easily transferred once done.
Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of baking soda. This process ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour. Set aside the mixture for later, as keeping it separate will help maintain the ideal texture for your cookies.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together ½ cup of softened salted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 2 minutes. This step is key to achieving the soft and chewy texture of your White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, as it incorporates air into the dough.
Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Next, add 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the creamed butter and sugar. Beat everything together until fully combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure an even mixture. The peppermint extract will give your cookies that delightful holiday flavor, enhancing their festive appeal.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Take care not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. Your dough should be soft and slightly sticky, embodying the essential qualities of Soft and Chewy White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies ready for the next delicious step.
Step 6: Fold in Mix-ins
Gently fold in 1 cup of white chocolate chips and ½ cup of crushed candy canes using a spatula. This ensures these delightful additions are evenly distributed throughout the dough. The white chocolate chips will melt slightly while baking, creating creamy pockets, while the crushed candy canes add a festive crunch that elevates the holiday spirit.
Step 7: Chill the Cookie Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This step is essential, as chilling helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. As the dough cools, the flavors will also meld, resulting in even tastier Soft and Chewy White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.
Step 8: Scoop and Space the Dough
Once chilled, use a tablespoon to scoop dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing is crucial to allow your cookies to spread without merging into one another during baking, ensuring each cookie is perfectly formed and chewy.
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 9-10 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies; they should be lightly golden at the edges but remain soft in the center. This visual cue is essential for achieving the perfect soft and chewy texture, characteristic of these delightful White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling process allows the cookies to set and prevents them from breaking apart. Once cooled, these Soft and Chewy White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are ready to be devoured, bringing festive joy to your holiday gatherings.
What to Serve with Soft and Chewy White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Indulge in a magical winter gathering by pairing these cookies with delightful accompaniments that uplift their festive spirit.
- Hot Cocoa: The rich chocolate flavor of hot cocoa complements the peppermint perfectly, creating a warm and cozy experience.
- Creamy Eggnog: This classic holiday drink offers a creamy, spiced contrast, balancing the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
- Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic blend of chai with its warming spices harmonizes with the peppermint, offering a comforting, cozy vibe.
- Peppermint Ice Cream: A scoop of this refreshing treat enhances the peppermint flavor while providing a delightful creaminess in every bite.
- Fruit Salad with Citrus Dressing: Fresh fruit adds a burst of color and brightness that contrasts the rich cookies and balances the sweetness.
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: The both silky chocolate and fresh strawberries add a touch of elegance and richness to your dessert spread.
- Warm Apple Cider: The warmth and spices in apple cider create an inviting atmosphere, blending perfectly with the cookies’ holiday charm.
- Festive Cheeseboard: Include cheese, nuts, and fruits for a delightful savory balance that complements the sweetness of the peppermint cookies.
- Gingerbread Cookies: Create variety on your dessert table with these spiced treats that align perfectly with the holiday flavors.
- Mulled Wine: This warm drink with spices enhances the festive mood while contrasting the textures of your soft white chocolate cookies.
Expert Tips for White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
- Chill for Thickness: Refrigerate the dough for at least 15 minutes to achieve thicker, chewier cookies that hold their shape well.
- Mind the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; remove them when the edges are golden, while the centers should remain soft to avoid dryness.
- Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality chocolate and pure extracts enhance the flavor of your White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, making them extra special.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients to prevent tough cookies. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the desired softness.
- Parchment Paper is Key: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy removal and minimal cleanup, ensuring your cookies come out perfectly every time.
Storage Tips for White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delicious softness.
Fridge: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to 2 weeks. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid drying out.
Freezer: Freeze cookie dough for up to 3 months. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a plastic bag for easy baking whenever the craving hits!
Reheating: To enjoy your cookies warm, heat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, refreshing their chewy goodness before serving.
White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delightful cookies to suit your taste and dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free baking blend instead of all-purpose flour to keep the joy without the gluten.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the salted butter with dairy-free butter or coconut oil for a deliciously dairy-free treat.
- Dark Chocolate: Swap white chocolate chips for rich dark chocolate chunks for a deeper flavor experience.
- Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for a delightful crunch that complements the softness.
- Mint Boost: Enhance the minty experience by mixing in mint candies or a drop of fresh mint extract for extra zing.
- Choco-Peppermint Swirl: Include 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder in the dough for a chocolatey twist that’s perfect for holiday indulgence.
- Spice it Up: Sprinkle in festive spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to create warm, cozy flavors that invite the holiday spirit.
- Topping Twist: Instead of crushed candy canes, experiment with crushed peppermint chocolates or chocolate drizzles for a decadent finish.
For more inspiration, don’t miss out on our White Chocolate Biscoff and Chocolate Cosmic Brownie recipes—perfect companions to your holiday cookie creations!
Make Ahead Options
These Soft and Chewy White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps and then chilling it in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, make sure to wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto a baking sheet and bake from there, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time if necessary. This way, you’ll have freshly baked cookies in no time, delighting your family with minimal effort!
Soft and Chewy White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! For the Soft and Chewy White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, I recommend using all-purpose flour for the perfect texture. If you need a gluten-free option, simply swap it for a gluten-free baking blend. Just make sure that the gluten-free flour contains a binding agent like xanthan gum to help maintain a chewy consistency.
How should I store my cookies to keep them fresh?
To keep your cookies soft and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent them from drying out!
Can I freeze the cookie dough? How about baked cookies?
Yes! You can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer the cookie dough balls to a zip-lock bag. For baked cookies, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container and freezing for up to 3 months as well. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let them thaw and, if desired, warm them in the oven for the ultimate soft and chewy experience.
What can I do if my cookies turn out too flat or hard?
If your cookies are flat, it may be due to using melted butter instead of softened butter, or not enough flour. For chewy cookies, ensure to measure the flour accurately and try chilling the dough for at least 15 minutes before baking. If your cookies are hard, it could be that they were overbaked. Keep a close eye during baking and pull them when the edges are golden and the centers are still soft—this ensures that perfect chewy texture!
Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Yes, it’s essential to consider dietary restrictions. This recipe contains gluten, dairy, and eggs. For gluten-free options, use a gluten-free flour blend; for dairy-free alternatives, substitute butter with non-dairy butter, and feel free to leave out the egg or use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for vegan cookies. Always check the labels on ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
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. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream 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 and sugar mixture, beating until fully combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the white chocolate chips and crushed candy canes until evenly distributed.
- Chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 9-10 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
