These soft and chewy Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint flavor. Perfect for holidays, cookie exchanges, or any time you crave a minty treat!
Ingredients
Makes 24 Cookies
Baking & Spices
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
Mix-Ins
- 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup green chocolate chips (optional, for extra minty color)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add extracts and eggs: Mix in the vanilla extract, peppermint extract, egg, and egg yolk until well combined.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Fold in mix-ins: Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and green chocolate chips (if using).
- Portion cookies: Scoop 1½-tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked—this is okay!
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a more vibrant green, add a drop or two of green food coloring to the dough.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Use mini chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey bite in every cookie.
Helpful Tips
- Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, use high-quality butter, vanilla extract, and chocolate chips. Premium ingredients can make a noticeable difference in taste.
- Soften Butter Properly: Ensure your butter is softened but not melted. Softened butter creams better with sugar, which is key for achieving the perfect cookie texture.
- Accurate Measurements: Baking is a science, so measure ingredients precisely. Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid packing it into the measuring cup, which can result in dense cookies.
- Don’t Skip Chilling: While not mandatory, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help prevent the cookies from spreading too much and ensures a chewy texture.
- Room Temperature Eggs: For a smooth and even dough, bring eggs to room temperature before mixing. This helps them blend better with the other ingredients.
- Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing the dough after adding the dry ingredients. Overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in tougher cookies. Mix just until combined.
- Perfect Portioning: Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform cookie sizes. This promotes even baking and makes your cookies look consistent.
- Bake One Tray at a Time: For even baking, bake one tray in the center of the oven. If using multiple trays, rotate them halfway through baking.
- Watch the Baking Time: Remove the cookies from the oven when the edges are set, but the centers still look slightly underdone. They will continue to cook as they cool, resulting in perfectly chewy cookies.
- Storing Cookies: Store cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to keep them soft for days. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies or raw dough balls for up to three months.
Substitutions and Variations
- Flour Alternatives: Swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to make these cookies gluten-free. For added fiber, you can replace a small portion (up to ¼ cup) with whole wheat flour.
- Sugar Adjustments: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a natural sweetness or try light brown sugar for a richer, caramel-like flavor. You can also reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer less sweetness.
- Butter Alternatives: Substitute unsalted butter with plant-based or vegan butter to make the cookies dairy-free. Coconut oil is another option, but it will add a subtle coconut flavor.
- Egg-Free Option: Replace the egg and egg yolk with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) for a vegan-friendly cookie.
- Peppermint Extract: If you don’t have peppermint extract, use crushed peppermint candies or candy canes. Alternatively, reduce the peppermint extract for a milder mint flavor or try a drop of mint oil for a stronger punch.
- Chocolate Chips: Customize the cookies by using dark chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or a combination. For an extra minty twist, incorporate Andes mint baking chips or chopped mint chocolates.
- Food Coloring: Add green or red food coloring for a festive touch, especially around the holidays.
- Mix-Ins: Enhance the texture by adding chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or crushed pretzels.
- Dipped Cookies: Dip half of each baked cookie in melted dark or white chocolate for an elegant and indulgent variation.
These substitutions and variations allow you to tailor the recipe to dietary needs and personal preferences while keeping the cookies irresistibly delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough up to 3 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to soften slightly.
2. Can I freeze the cookies?
Absolutely! Freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Alternatively, freeze the portioned dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
3. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking, and ensure your baking sheet is cool between batches. Warm dough or pans can cause spreading.
4. What can I do if I don’t have peppermint extract?
You can use crushed peppermint candies or candy canes as a substitute. Simply crush and mix them into the dough for a minty touch.
5. How do I store leftover cookies?
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Add a slice of bread to the container to keep them soft.
Serving Suggestions
Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies are versatile and can be served in numerous creative and delightful ways to elevate your snacking experience. Here are some ideas:
- Classic with Milk: Serve these cookies warm with a tall glass of cold milk. The creamy milk complements the rich chocolate and refreshing mint perfectly.
- Dessert Platter: Arrange the cookies on a platter alongside other holiday treats, such as peppermint bark, fudge, or brownies. Add a sprinkle of crushed candy canes on top for an extra festive touch.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Turn these cookies into a decadent dessert by sandwiching a scoop of vanilla, mint chocolate chip, or chocolate ice cream between two cookies. Roll the edges in mini chocolate chips or crushed peppermint candies for added texture.
- Dipped in Chocolate: Dip half of each cookie into melted dark or white chocolate and let them set. This adds an elegant touch and pairs wonderfully with their minty flavor.
- Crumbled as a Topping: Crush the cookies and use them as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or pudding. The mix of chocolate and mint adds a refreshing crunch.
- Hot Cocoa Pairing: Serve the cookies alongside a cup of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies. This combo is perfect for chilly evenings.
- Gifting Idea: Package the cookies in decorative tins or gift bags and pair them with a festive ribbon for a thoughtful holiday gift.
Conclusion
Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat that strikes the perfect balance between rich chocolate and refreshing mint flavors. Whether you’re baking them for the holidays, a special occasion, or simply to satisfy a sweet tooth, these cookies are guaranteed to impress family and friends alike.
Their soft, chewy texture and vibrant flavor make them a standout addition to any dessert spread. Plus, with their versatile mix-ins and customizable variations, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences—whether that means adding a festive splash of green food coloring, swapping in dark chocolate chips for a richer taste, or incorporating crushed candy canes for extra crunch.
Not only are these cookies easy to prepare, but they also store well, making them ideal for make-ahead baking or gifting to loved ones. Serve them warm with a glass of milk, transform them into ice cream sandwiches, or dress them up with a chocolate dip for an extra-special presentation.
Beyond their irresistible flavor, Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies offer a sense of nostalgia and comfort, reminding us of cherished memories with loved ones and the joy of simple indulgences. Their universal appeal makes them a crowd-pleaser for all ages and occasions.
So, grab your mixing bowl and whip up a batch of these minty, chocolatey delights. One bite, and you’ll see why they’re destined to become a favorite in your cookie repertoire. Delicious, festive, and unforgettable these cookies are simply mint to be!
More relevant recipes
Looking for more inspiration? Check out this recipe for Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies for even more ideas and tips!
Beyond their irresistible flavor, Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies offer a sense of nostalgia and comfort, reminding us of cherished memories with loved ones and the joy of simple indulgences. Their universal appeal makes them a crowd-pleaser for all ages and occasions.
So, grab your mixing bowl and whip up a batch of these minty, chocolatey delights. One bite, and you’ll see why they’re destined to become a favorite in your cookie repertoire. Delicious, festive, and unforgettable these cookies are simply mint to be!
Print
Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These soft and chewy Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint flavor. Perfect for holidays, cookie exchanges, or any time you crave a minty treat!
Ingredients
Ingredients
Makes 24 Cookies
Baking & Spices
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
Mix-Ins
- 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup green chocolate chips (optional, for extra minty color)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add extracts and eggs: Mix in the vanilla extract, peppermint extract, egg, and egg yolk until well combined.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Fold in mix-ins: Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and green chocolate chips (if using).
- Portion cookies: Scoop 1½-tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked—this is okay!
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For a more vibrant green, add a drop or two of green food coloring to the dough.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Use mini chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey bite in every cookie.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Mint chocolate chip cookies, holiday cookies, chocolate mint cookies