When it comes to holiday baking, there’s nothing quite like a tray of Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies cooling on the counter. These cookies combine everything we love about the season—rich chocolate, cool peppermint, and that irresistible soft, chewy texture. With dark and white chocolate chips, crushed candy canes, and buttery dough that melts in your mouth, they’re the ultimate Christmas cookie for festive gatherings, cookie exchanges, and cozy nights in.

Why You’ll Love These Peppermint Cookies

Soft & chewy texture: Just like your favorite chocolate chip cookie, but with a festive twist.
Perfect holiday flavor: The combo of peppermint and chocolate brings instant Christmas joy.
Quick to make: No fancy ingredients—ready in under 30 minutes, including chill time.
Cookie exchange favorite: They hold their shape beautifully and look stunning with red and white candy cane bits.
Freezer-friendly: Bake ahead for easy holiday prep or make the dough in advance.

Time Needed

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies

Ingredients

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
½ cup sugar
⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
1 large egg
1 ½ cups (204 g) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon baking soda
¾ cup white chocolate chips
¾ cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
5 candy canes, crushed (about ¼ cup plus 1 tablespoon)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cream the Butter & SugarsUsing a hand or stand mixer, beat butter, sugar, and brown sugar for 3–4 minutes until light and fluffy. This step adds air for that perfect chewy texture. Add vanilla and egg, mixing just until combined.
Mix the Dry IngredientsIn another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and sea salt. Gradually add the dry mix into the butter mixture, stirring until just combined—don’t overmix!
Fold in the Chocolate & PeppermintStir in white and dark chocolate chips along with crushed candy canes. Smaller candy cane pieces melt beautifully, adding festive pops of red and white.
Chill the DoughCover and chill the dough for 30–60 minutes to prevent spreading. For best results, chill up to 3 days and bring to room temp before baking.
Bake the CookiesPreheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop cookie dough using a 1½ tablespoon scoop and place 2 inches apart. Bake 9–12 minutes, until edges are golden but centers still soft.
Shape & CoolIf desired, use a round cookie cutter to “scoot” warm cookies into perfect circles. Cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.

Chef Emma’s Tips for Perfect Peppermint Cookies

Cream butter and sugar for at least 3 minutes—this gives lift and chew.
Crush candy canes finely to avoid spreading or sticky edges.
Use a mix of white and dark chocolate for balanced sweetness.
Don’t overbake! Pull cookies out just as they set; they’ll continue baking on the tray.
For thicker cookies, add 1–2 tablespoons flour if the dough feels too soft.

Variations

Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: Replace ¼ cup flour with cocoa powder.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Peppermint Mocha: Add 1 teaspoon espresso powder for a cozy coffeehouse twist.
Drizzled Version: Dip half the cookie in melted white chocolate and sprinkle crushed candy canes on top.

How to Store

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To refresh, warm in a low oven (300°F) for 5 minutes or microwave for 10 seconds for that fresh-baked feel.

Nutrition Info per Cookie

Calories: 152
Carbohydrates: 20g
Sugar: 14g
Fat: 7g
Protein: 2g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 121mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I stop the candy canes from melting too much?
A: Crush them finely and press larger pieces slightly into the dough before baking.
Q: Can I freeze the dough?
A: Yes—scoop into balls, freeze on a tray, and store in bags. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes.
Q: Can I use peppermint extract?
A: You can! Add ¼ teaspoon for extra minty flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies are everything holiday baking should be—soft, chewy, minty, and full of joy. Whether you’re baking for a Christmas cookie exchange, Santa’s plate, or a cozy winter evening, these cookies are guaranteed to disappear fast. Save this festive cookie recipe to your holiday baking or Christmas dessert board so it’s ready when the craving hits!