Name: Peppermint Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 30
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ¾ cup butter; ½ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup brown sugar; 2 eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 drop pure peppermint extract; 2¼ cups all purpose flour; 3.4 oz Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix; 1 tsp Baking Soda; 1 cup oreos; 1 cup white chocolate; ½ cup candy canes

Peppermint cookies are an iconic treat that blend sweetness with a refreshing minty flavor. This recipe blends a smooth, sweet, crunchy, and slightly salty profile to make a delightful dessert. These cookies are perfect for the holiday season or any time you want a sweet and minty pick-me-up. The addition of Oreos and white chocolate takes the flavor profile to a whole new level, offering a robust taste experience in each bite.

Photos of Peppermint Cookies Recipe

The ingredient list includes some items that might not be in your regular pantry stock. Instant vanilla pudding mix is often found in the baking aisle of your local supermarket and adds a creamy sweetness to these cookies. Also, keep in mind that you'll need candy canes and Oreos, which may not be readily on hand outside the holiday season. You might also need to specifically look for peppermint extract, which provides the distinctive minty flavor.

Essential Ingredients for Peppermint Cookies

Butter: It helps in binding the ingredients together while also adding a rich flavor to the cookies.

Granulated sugar and Brown sugar: These add sweetness to the cookies while the brown sugar also imparts a bit of a caramel taste.

Eggs: Act as binding agents, providing structure.

Vanilla extract and Peppermint extract: Both provide flavor, with the peppermint extract giving the cookies their signature taste.

All purpose flour: Forms the base of the cookie dough.

Instant vanilla pudding mix: Adds creaminess and sweetness to the cookies.

Baking soda: Is a leavening agent that helps the cookies rise.

Oreos: Give a chocolatey crunch to the cookies.

White chocolate: Adds a smooth, creamy taste.

Candy canes: Provide crunch and a festive touch.

One reader, Jenelle Faulk says:

These peppermint cookies are a delightful holiday treat! The combination of peppermint and white chocolate is simply divine. The cookies turned out perfectly chewy and flavorful. The recipe was easy to follow, and the cookies were a hit with my family. I'll definitely be making these again!

Jenelle Faulk

Techniques Required for Crafting Peppermint Cookies

How to preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

How to line the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a nonstick baking mat.

How to beat the butter and sugars: Place the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in the bowl of a mixer. Beat for about 3 minutes or until light and fluffy.

How to add the eggs and extracts: Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract (if using). Beat until combined.

How to mix the dry ingredients: Add the flour, pudding mix, and baking soda to the bowl. Mix on low speed until just combined.

How to fold in the mix-ins: Fold in ¾ of the Oreos, white chocolate, and candy canes.

How to form the cookie dough: Take 2 tablespoons of dough and roll it into a ball. Repeat with the remaining dough.

How to place the dough on the baking sheet: Place the balls of dough 2 inches apart on a baking sheet. You will need to bake the cookies in batches.

How to add toppings: Press the remaining Oreos, candy canes, and white chocolate onto the tops of the balls of dough.

How to bake the cookies: Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes or until light brown at the edges.

How to cool the cookies: Cool the cookies on the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.

How to store the cookies: Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

How To Make Peppermint Cookies

Chunks of candy canes, white chocolate, and Oreos can be found in these peppermint cookies. This is sure to be a holiday hit with everyone.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

¾cupbuttersoftened
½cupgranulated sugar
½cupbrown sugar
2eggs
1tspvanilla extract
1droppure peppermint extractoptional
2¼cupsall purpose flour
3.4ozinstant vanilla pudding mix
1tspBaking Soda
1cupOreoschopped
1cupwhite chocolatechips or chunks
½cupcandy canescrushed, or peppermints

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a nonstick baking mat.
Place the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in the bowl of a mixer. Beat for about 3 minutes or until light and fluffy,.
Add the eggs, vanilla extract and peppermint extract (if using). Beat until combined.
Add the flour, pudding mix and baking soda to the bowl. Mix on low speed until just combined.
Fold in ¾ of the Oreos, white chocolate and candy canes.
Take 2 tablespoons of dough and roll it into a ball. Repeat with remaining dough.
Place the balls of dough 2 inches apart on a baking sheet. You will need to bake the cookies in batches.
Press the remaining Oreos, candy canes and white chocolate onto the tops of the balls of dough.
Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes or until light brown at the edges.
Cool the cookies on the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
Repeat the baking process with the remaining dough.
Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 159.75kcal
Fat: 7.75g
Saturated Fat: 4.67g
Trans Fat: 0.19g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.15g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.37g
Carbohydrates: 21.37g
Fiber: 0.45g
Sugar: 13.79g
Protein: 1.85g
Cholesterol: 24.06mg
Sodium: 100.82mg
Calcium: 19.10mg
Potassium: 46.89mg
Iron: 0.66mg
Vitamin A: 43.95µg
Vitamin C: 0.03mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Peppermint Cookies

When crushing your candy canes, place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to gently break them into small pieces. This method will prevent the candy canes from scattering all over your kitchen counter and will give you more control over the size of the pieces. Remember, you want small chunks to mix into the cookie dough and not a fine powder.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Peppermint Cookie Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking to save time on the day you want to bake the cookies.

Use a cookie scoop: Using a cookie scoop will help you portion the dough quickly and efficiently, ensuring uniform cookie sizes for even baking.

Multi-task: While the cookies are baking, use that time to clean up the kitchen or prepare other dishes to maximize efficiency.

Organize ingredients: Before starting the recipe, gather all the ingredients and measure them out, so they are ready to use when needed, saving time during the mixing process.

Set up a baking station: Arrange all the necessary tools and ingredients in one area to create an efficient and organized workspace for baking.

Substitute Ingredients For Peppermint Cookies Recipe

butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the cookies, while also adding a hint of coconut flavor.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and moisture to the cookies, and it also brings a unique flavor profile.
brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can offer a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the cookies, enhancing their flavor.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can act as a binding agent and add moisture to the cookies, while also reducing the fat content.
all purpose flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour can add a nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture to the cookies, making them gluten-free as well.
instant vanilla pudding mix - Substitute with vanilla protein powder: Vanilla protein powder can add a similar vanilla flavor while also providing a protein boost to the cookies.
oreos - Substitute with chocolate wafer cookies: Chocolate wafer cookies can provide a similar crunchy texture and chocolate flavor to the cookies.
white chocolate - Substitute with coconut milk chocolate: Coconut milk chocolate can offer a creamy and rich alternative to white chocolate, with a hint of coconut flavor.
candy canes - Substitute with peppermint extract: Peppermint extract can provide the same minty flavor to the cookies, without the crunchy texture of candy canes.

Best Way to Present Homemade Peppermint Cookies

Elevate the plating: Carefully arrange the cookies on a pristine white plate, ensuring they are evenly spaced and visually appealing.
Garnish with crushed candy canes: Sprinkle a delicate dusting of crushed candy canes around the cookies to add a pop of color and a festive touch.
Drizzle with white chocolate: Create an elegant drizzle of melted white chocolate over the cookies, adding a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Accompany with a peppermint-infused beverage: Serve the cookies alongside a refreshing peppermint tea or a decadent peppermint hot chocolate to enhance the overall experience.
Use fine dining cutlery: Place the cookies on a beautiful dessert plate and pair them with polished silverware to elevate the dining experience.
Incorporate edible flowers: Adorn the plate with delicate, edible flowers such as pansies or violas to add a touch of elegance and a subtle floral note to the presentation.
Present on a mirrored tray: Showcase the cookies on a mirrored tray to create a stunning visual effect and add a touch of glamour to the presentation.
Add a dusting of powdered sugar: Lightly dust the plate with powdered sugar to create a beautiful, snowy effect that complements the peppermint flavor of the cookies.

Essential Tools for Making Peppermint Cookies

Baking sheet: A flat, metal sheet used to bake cookies, pastries, and other baked goods in the oven.
Mixer: An electric appliance used to mix, beat, and whip ingredients for baking and cooking.
Parchment paper: A non-stick paper used to line baking sheets and pans to prevent food from sticking.
Cooling rack: A metal rack used to cool baked goods by allowing air to circulate around them.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used to accurately measure ingredients for baking and cooking.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for lifting, spreading, and flipping.

How To Store and Freeze Homemade Peppermint Cookies

Allow the peppermint cookies to cool completely before storing. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or sticking together.
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. To maintain freshness, place a piece of bread in the container, which will absorb excess moisture and keep the cookies crisp.
For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 2 months. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
To thaw frozen cookies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For a warm, freshly baked taste, place the thawed cookies on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 3-5 minutes.
If you plan to gift or transport the peppermint cookies, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or place them in small cellophane bags. This will help maintain their freshness and prevent them from breaking during handling.

How To Reheat Leftover Peppermint Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover peppermint cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crisp around the edges. This method will restore some of the cookie's original texture and bring out the flavors of the peppermint, white chocolate, and Oreo pieces.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 15-second intervals until they reach your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the cookies to become too soft or rubbery.
If you want to add a touch of extra indulgence, try warming up the cookies in a skillet with a small amount of butter. Melt the butter over low heat and place the cookies in the skillet. Heat them for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy. The butter will add a rich, nutty flavor that complements the peppermint and chocolate.
For a cool and refreshing twist, crumble the leftover cookies over a bowl of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of the cold ice cream and the slightly soft, minty cookies creates a delightful texture and flavor combination. You can also add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for an extra festive touch.
If you have a few cookies left and want to transform them into a new dessert, try making peppermint cookie truffles. Crumble the cookies into fine pieces and mix them with a small amount of cream cheese. Roll the mixture into small balls and dip them in melted white chocolate. Sprinkle with crushed candy canes and refrigerate until the chocolate sets. These truffles make a beautiful and delicious gift or party treat.

Random Fact About Peppermint Cookies

The peppermint cookie recipe is a delightful treat for the holiday season. It combines the refreshing flavor of peppermint with the sweetness of white chocolate and the crunch of candy canes. This recipe is perfect for festive gatherings and cookie exchanges. Plus, the addition of instant vanilla pudding mix gives the cookies a soft and chewy texture. Enjoy these peppermint cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of hot cocoa for a delightful holiday treat.

Is Making Peppermint Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this peppermint cookie recipe is quite high. The ingredients are relatively common and affordable, making it a budget-friendly option for a household. The overall verdict for this recipe would be an 8 out of 10, considering the delightful combination of peppermint, oreos, and white chocolate. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15, making it an economical choice for a sweet treat.

Are Peppermint Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?

This peppermint cookie recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients contributing to its indulgent nature are:

High amounts of butter and sugar, which are calorie-dense and can lead to weight gain if consumed in excess
Instant vanilla pudding mix, which often contains added sugars and artificial ingredients
Oreos, a processed cookie that is high in sugar and fat
White chocolate, which is rich in sugar and fat, and lacks the beneficial antioxidants found in dark chocolate
Candy canes, which are essentially pure sugar

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of butter and sugar used, or replace some of the butter with a healthier alternative like Greek yogurt or mashed avocado
Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to increase the fiber content
Opt for a sugar-free or low-sugar instant pudding mix, or omit it altogether
Replace the Oreos with a healthier cookie option, such as homemade oatmeal cookies or almond flour-based cookies
Swap the white chocolate for dark chocolate, which contains more antioxidants and less sugar
Use fewer candy canes or replace them with a natural peppermint extract to reduce the sugar content

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of these peppermint cookies. However, it's important to remember that cookies, even healthier versions, should still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a well-rounded diet.

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Peppermint Cookie Recipe

The peppermint cookie recipe is a delightful combination of classic flavors and textures. The use of vanilla pudding mix adds a unique twist, creating a soft and chewy cookie with a hint of vanilla. The addition of crushed Oreos, white chocolate, and candy canes provides a delightful crunch and bursts of flavor. The incorporation of peppermint extract gives a refreshing and festive touch, making these cookies perfect for the holiday season. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful balance of sweetness and minty freshness, making it a wonderful treat for any occasion.

Enhance Your Peppermint Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Create a creamy garlic mashed potatoes with a hint of rosemary for a comforting and savory side dish.

Grilled Asparagus: Serve up some tender grilled asparagus drizzled with a balsamic glaze for a light and flavorful accompaniment.

Fruit Salad: Whip up a refreshing fruit salad with a mix of seasonal fruits and a zesty citrus dressing for a vibrant and juicy side dish.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Peppermint Cookies

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for a chilly day. It's rich, flavorful, and easy to make at home.

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: This grilled lemon herb chicken is a delicious and healthy option for a weeknight dinner. The combination of fresh herbs and zesty lemon makes for a flavorful and juicy chicken dish.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This mango coconut chia pudding is a refreshing and tropical dessert option. It's light, creamy, and packed with the natural sweetness of mango and coconut flavors.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement Peppermint Cookies

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites are filled with a delicious mixture of cheeses, herbs, and breadcrumbs, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Bruschetta: Slices of toasted baguette are topped with a vibrant mixture of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil, creating a burst of Mediterranean flavors in every bite.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish with tender chicken and a rich, savory sauce. Pair it with your favorite pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a quick and flavorful stir fry with tender beef and a colorful array of vegetables. Serve it over steamed rice for a delicious and nutritious dinner option.

Why trust this Peppermint Cookies Recipe:

This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, as it combines the classic flavors of peppermint and white chocolate with a delightful crunch from oreos and a refreshing hint of candy canes. The use of instant vanilla pudding mix ensures a soft and chewy texture, while the addition of pure peppermint extract gives it a burst of minty freshness. With a perfect balance of sweetness and minty flavor, these cookies are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Trust in the harmonious blend of these high-quality ingredients to deliver a delectable treat.

Share your thoughts on the Peppermint Cookies Recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum and let's discuss your experience making these delightful holiday treats!

FAQ:

Can I use regular vanilla pudding mix instead of instant vanilla pudding mix?

Yes, you can use regular vanilla pudding mix, but the texture and consistency of the cookies may vary slightly.

Can I omit the peppermint extract?

Yes, you can omit the peppermint extract if you prefer a milder peppermint flavor or if you don't have it on hand.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate can be used as a delicious alternative to white chocolate for a different flavor profile.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough. Simply roll the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Can I substitute candy canes with peppermint candies?

Yes, you can substitute candy canes with crushed peppermint candies for a similar peppermint flavor and crunch in the cookies.