If you’re dreaming of cookies that bring together the rich creaminess of white chocolate with the refreshing zing of peppermint, then this White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe is exactly what your sweet tooth needs. These soft and fluffy cookies deliver gooey pockets of white chocolate chips alongside little bursts of cool peppermint pieces, creating a perfect balance of holiday cheer in every bite. Whether you’re baking for cozy nights in or festive gatherings, these treats are bound to become a beloved favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic in this White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe lies in its straightforward yet thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—whether it’s the tenderizing butter for softness, baking soda for a slight rise, or that peppermint for a burst of freshness that sets these cookies apart.
- Unsalted butter: Half a cup of softened butter creates that rich, tender base perfect for soft cookies.
- Granulated sugar: Three-quarters of a cup adds the right amount of sweetness and helps with browning.
- Large egg: One egg binds everything together and adds moisture.
- Pure vanilla extract: A teaspoon enhances all the flavors with a warm, sweet aroma.
- All-purpose flour: One and three-quarter cups give structure for chewy yet soft results.
- Baking soda: Three-quarter teaspoon to ensure a gentle rise and fluffy texture.
- Salt: Half a teaspoon balances the sweetness and elevates all the flavors.
- White chocolate chips: One cup delivers those melty, creamy bursts that make each bite irresistible.
- Peppermint pieces: One-third cup chopped adds that signature refreshing crunch and festive flair.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Peppermint
Start by warming up your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven heats, chop the peppermint candy into small pieces until you reach about one-third of a cup. This small step ensures every cookie is scattered with that delightful peppermint crunch.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Then beat in the egg and vanilla extract, combining everything into a smooth, creamy mixture that forms the foundation of these delicious cookies.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients and White Chocolate Chips
Next, gently sift in the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix or the cookies may turn tough. Once the dough comes together, fold in the white chocolate chips carefully to disperse that creamy sweetness evenly.
Step 4: Shape Dough and Coat with Peppermint Pieces
Roll the dough into approximately eighteen small balls, each about 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter. Then dip the top of each dough ball into the peppermint pieces, pressing lightly so they stick well. This quirky touch will make your cookies look festive and ensure peppermint in every bite.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them some space to expand. Bake for 10 to 11 minutes, checking at the 10-minute mark to catch that perfect moment when edges are set but centers remain soft. Let the cookies rest on the pan for 1 to 2 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack for about 10 minutes.
How to Serve White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a few extra crushed peppermint bits over warm cookies to amp up the festive vibe and add extra crunch. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also give them a snowy finish that looks beautiful on a holiday platter.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a hot cup of cocoa or a frothy peppermint mocha for a match made in heaven. They also go wonderfully with a chilled glass of milk or a creamy eggnog during holiday celebrations.
Creative Ways to Present
Create a DIY cookie jar gift bundle by layering these cookies with peppermint bark and holiday candies. Alternatively, sandwich two cookies together with peppermint-infused buttercream or marshmallow fluff for a delightful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay soft and flavorful for up to five days, making them perfect for sharing throughout the week.
Freezing
You can freeze the cookie dough balls before baking for up to a month. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake fresh for warm, freshly baked delights anytime you crave. Alternatively, baked cookies freeze well, tightly wrapped, for up to three months.
Reheating
To enjoy soft, melty white chocolate again, gently warm the cookies in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or pop them in a 300-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 5 minutes. This warms the chips and refreshes that just-baked feel.
FAQs
Can I substitute dark or milk chocolate for the white chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Though white chocolate adds creamy sweetness that pairs well with peppermint, milk or dark chocolate provide a richer chocolatey contrast. Just use the same amount for a delicious twist.
What type of peppermint works best for these cookies?
Crushed peppermint candy canes or peppermint bark pieces are ideal for that authentic, fresh minty crunch. Avoid peppermint extract as a replacement since you want the texture and look of the peppermint pieces.
Are these cookies gluten-free friendly?
This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free as is. For a gluten-free version, try using a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend, but results may vary slightly in texture.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a flaxseed or chia egg in place of the chicken egg. Be sure to check your white chocolate chips for dairy, or find vegan-friendly white chocolate.
How do I ensure my cookies stay soft and chewy?
Don’t overbake! Pull your cookies from the oven when edges are set but centers still look slightly underdone. Let them cool on the baking sheet before moving them to a wire rack for that perfect chewy texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something utterly joyful about baking and sharing these White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe. With their cozy softness, bursts of creamy white chocolate, and that sparkling hit of peppermint, they’re a treat that brightens up any day. If you haven’t tried them yet, gather your ingredients and give yourself this gift—you won’t regret it!
PrintWhite Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe
Soft and fluffy white chocolate peppermint cookies featuring gooey white chocolate chips and refreshing peppermint pieces in every bite. These delightful cookies make a perfect sweet treat for the holidays or any festive occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
Add-ins
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup peppermint pieces (chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking the cookies evenly.
- Prepare Peppermint Pieces: Chop peppermint candies into small pieces until you have about 1/3 cup, which will be used to coat the dough balls.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients into a consistent dough.
- Fold in White Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the white chocolate chips to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Shape Dough Balls: Roll the dough into approximately 18 small balls, each about 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter.
- Coat with Peppermint: Dip the top of each dough ball into the chopped peppermint pieces. Press gently so the peppermint sticks to the dough.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spaced adequately for spreading.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-11 minutes. Check at the 10-minute mark; the cookies should be slightly soft when done.
- Cool: Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 1-2 minutes after baking to firm up, then transfer to a wire rack and cool completely for about 10 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, serve these delightful white chocolate peppermint cookies and enjoy the perfect combination of sweetness and minty freshness.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature to achieve a smooth dough consistency.
- Do not overbake; cookies should remain slightly soft for the best texture.
- Press peppermint pieces gently to avoid breaking the dough balls.
- Use parchment paper on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and aid in even baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
