There’s nothing quite like a batch of freshly baked Peppermint Cookies-and-Cream Cookies to bring the holiday spirit into your kitchen. These cookies are the perfect fusion of cool peppermint, rich chocolate, and creamy cookie crumbs. With their soft centers and festive crunch, they’re ideal for holiday dessert trays, cookie exchanges, or cozy evenings with a mug of cocoa.

The Charm of Peppermint Cookies-and-Cream Cookies

What makes Peppermint Cookies-and-Cream Cookies so special is their balance of texture and flavor. Each bite combines buttery cookie dough, crushed chocolate sandwich cookies, and bursts of peppermint candy. The hint of peppermint extract adds a refreshing twist that brightens the rich chocolate base, creating a treat that’s indulgent yet perfectly balanced. Plus, they’re easy to prepare — perfect for novice bakers or anyone looking to impress during the holiday season.

Key Ingredients for Perfect Peppermint Cookies-and-Cream Cookies

• Unsalted Butter: Creates a rich, creamy base and gives the cookies a soft, chewy texture.
• Brown Sugar: Adds depth and moisture for a tender crumb.
• Granulated Sugar: Balances sweetness and helps with browning.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances flavor and rounds out the minty notes.
• Peppermint Extract: Brings that classic holiday coolness.
• Eggs: Bind ingredients and add moisture for soft, fluffy cookies.
• All-Purpose Flour: The structure that holds everything together.
• Cornstarch: Keeps the cookies thick and soft.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Ensure the cookies rise and maintain a chewy texture.
• Kosher Salt: Balances sweetness and deepens flavor.
• Crushed Peppermint Puffs: Add crunch and festive flair.
• Crushed Chocolate Sandwich Cookies: Infuse a cookies-and-cream vibe throughout.
• Mini Red Candy-Coated Chocolates: Provide pops of color and extra sweetness.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

If you’re missing an ingredient or prefer dietary adjustments, here are simple swaps:
• Butter Substitute: Use vegan butter or coconut oil for dairy-free baking.
• Chocolate Sandwich Cookies: Gluten-free chocolate cookies work beautifully for gluten-sensitive eaters.
• Peppermint Extract: Substitute with crushed candy canes or omit for a milder mint note.
• Candy-Coated Chocolates: White chocolate chips or peppermint chips can replace the red candies for a softer flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Directions for Peppermint Cookies-and-Cream Cookies

Cream the Butter and Sugars
Beat room-temperature butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium-high for about 4 minutes, until light and fluffy.
Add Extracts and Eggs
Mix in the vanilla and peppermint extracts, followed by the eggs. Continue to beat until smooth, scraping the bowl’s sides for even mixing.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until combined.
Fold in Add-Ins
Gently fold in crushed peppermint puffs, crushed chocolate cookies, and mini candy-coated chocolates.
Chill the Dough
Roll the dough into balls (about 3 tablespoons each) and chill for at least one hour. This step ensures thick, bakery-style cookies that stay soft in the center.
Bake to Perfection
Preheat the oven to 375°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Arrange cookies 2 inches apart and bake for 15–18 minutes, until edges are lightly golden and centers are just set.
Cool and Store
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a rack. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Expert Tips for the Best Peppermint Cookies-and-Cream Cookies

• Don’t skip chilling — it prevents spreading and enhances flavor.
• Use room-temperature ingredients to ensure even mixing.
• Measure flour correctly by spooning it into a cup and leveling it off. Too much flour can make cookies dry.
• Add-ins last — folding them in at the end keeps them evenly distributed.
• Avoid overbaking — the cookies continue to cook as they cool, so remove them when the centers look slightly soft.

Delicious Pairings and Creative Twists

• Serve with Hot Chocolate: The peppermint flavor complements a creamy cup of cocoa perfectly.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Press two cookies around a scoop of vanilla or mint chip ice cream.
• Holiday Drizzle: Drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle crushed peppermint on top for an elegant touch.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Extra Chocolate Version: Mix in white or dark chocolate chips for added indulgence.

Why These Cookies Belong in Your Holiday Baking Lineup

Peppermint Cookies-and-Cream Cookies are festive, easy, and visually stunning — everything a holiday cookie should be. The cooling peppermint balances the richness of the chocolate, while the crushed cookies add nostalgic flavor. Whether you’re gifting them in holiday tins or setting out a platter for a party, these cookies deliver joy in every bite.

Seasonal and Storage Insights

These cookies are perfect for winter celebrations, but their refreshing mint-chocolate flavor works year-round. For make-ahead convenience, freeze the dough balls for up to 3 months — bake straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Conclusion

When it comes to holiday baking, Peppermint Cookies-and-Cream Cookies are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. These cookies combine creamy chocolate sandwich cookies with the cool, festive flavor of peppermint, creating a texture that’s both soft and delightfully crunchy. Whether you’re preparing a holiday dessert table or searching for the perfect edible gift, these cookies embody the warmth and joy of the season. Their irresistible aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them a recipe worth keeping in your yearly rotation.

Baking a batch of Peppermint Cookies-and-Cream Cookies is more than just making dessert — it’s creating a moment to share with loved ones. From the satisfying snap of peppermint to the creamy crunch of cookies and cream, this treat captures everything we love about cozy winter baking.

Frequently Asked Questions About Peppermint Cookies-and-Cream Cookies

1. Can I make Peppermint Cookies-and-Cream Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the dough up to 48 hours in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Alternatively, roll the dough into balls, freeze them, and bake straight from frozen with just 1–2 extra minutes of baking time.

2. How can I make these cookies more peppermint-flavored?

For a stronger peppermint taste, increase the peppermint extract slightly or add extra crushed peppermint candies on top before baking. You can also drizzle the cooled cookies with melted peppermint bark for added flavor.

3. Are Peppermint Cookies-and-Cream Cookies suitable for gifting?

Yes! These cookies stay fresh and soft for up to five days when stored in an airtight container. Their festive look and delicious balance of mint and chocolate make them perfect for holiday cookie boxes or homemade gift tins.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free or dairy-free?

You can easily adapt this recipe. Use gluten-free chocolate sandwich cookies and a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free. For a dairy-free version, substitute vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate candies — the texture and taste remain delightfully similar.

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