White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe

If you are looking for a festive, delightful treat that combines the creamy sweetness of white chocolate with the refreshing zing of peppermint, this White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe is going to become your new holiday favorite. These cookies offer a perfect balance of soft, chewy texture and a crisp peppermint crunch, making them irresistible for cookie lovers everywhere. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a taste of winter magic, this recipe will warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients in this White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe are simple yet essential, carefully chosen to create that perfect flavor and texture. From creamy butter that adds richness to peppermint extract providing the holiday cheer, every element plays its part in making these cookies unforgettable.

• ½ cup unsalted butter: Use room temperature butter for easy creaming, which gives the dough a smooth texture.
• 1 cup granulated white sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps achieve that delicate crumb.
• 1 egg: Also at room temperature, it binds the ingredients and adds moisture for softness.
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: The star flavor that brings the refreshing peppermint taste to life.
• 1 ¾ cups white all-purpose flour: Provides structure; make sure to spoon and level it for accuracy.
• ¾ teaspoon baking powder: Gives a little lift to keep the cookies from being too dense.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.
• 3 cups white chocolate chips: Divided — part folded into the dough, part melted for dipping.
• ½ cup crushed candy canes: Adds a festive crunch and festive color contrast.
• 1 tablespoon shortening: Helps thin the melted white chocolate for smooth dipping.

How to Make White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the cookies won’t stick and will bake evenly. This simple prep step is key to achieving perfect cookies every time.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the room temperature butter until smooth. Then, add sugar and beat on medium-low speed for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture is fluffy and smooth. This creates that light texture that makes the cookies so tender.

Step 3: Add Egg and Peppermint

Beat in the egg and peppermint extract until fully combined. The peppermint will infuse the dough with that unmistakable holiday aroma that makes these cookies so special.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and seasoning to yield uniform cookies.

Step 5: Mix Flour into Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients on low speed, just until no flour streaks remain. Overmixing at this stage can make cookies tough, so keep it gentle.

Step 6: Fold in White Chocolate Chips

Using a spoon, fold in one cup of white chocolate chips carefully into the dough. This way, pockets of melty chocolate are distributed throughout, offering delightful bursts of sweetness.

Step 7: Form Cookie Balls

Shape about half a tablespoon of dough into balls by rolling them gently between your palms. Place the balls two inches apart on the prepared baking sheet so they have room to spread without merging.

Step 8: Bake Until Edges are Golden

Bake the cookies for 9 to 10 minutes, watching for golden edges on the bottom. This indicates they are perfectly cooked yet still soft in the center.

Step 9: Cool and Prepare for Dipping

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes after baking to finalize the cooking process without overbaking. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, setting the stage for the delicious white chocolate dip.

Step 10: Melt White Chocolate and Dip

Microwave the remaining two cups of white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, heating on 50 percent power in 30-second intervals. Stir between each interval until smooth and melted. To thin the chocolate for easy dipping, add shortening a little at a time and stir well.

Step 11: Dip and Decorate

Dip each cooled cookie halfway into the melted white chocolate, letting any extra drip off. For a clean edge, gently drag the bottom of the cookie along the bowl’s rim. Place the dipped cookies back on parchment paper and immediately sprinkle crushed candy canes over the wet chocolate to add crunch and that iconic festive flair.

How to Serve White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkling crushed candy canes over the luscious white chocolate not only adds a burst of color but also introduces a crunchy, minty surprise in every bite. You could also add a dusting of edible glitter or a light drizzle of dark chocolate for contrast and extra decadence.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of hot cocoa or a peppermint-infused coffee latte. For a festive dessert spread, add fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the cookies’ cool mint and creamy flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the cookies in a neat stack tied with a red satin ribbon to make a perfect gift. Alternatively, create a holiday cookie platter by combining these peppermint beauties with a variety of other Christmas cookies, making your gathering all the more special and colorful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe fresh by placing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will maintain their texture and flavor for up to 5 days, making it easy to indulge whenever a craving strikes.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked cookies before dipping for up to 3 months. Just arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready, thaw at room temperature and dip fresh for the best flavor and appearance.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy the cookies with that just-baked warmth, reheat them gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Avoid overheating to keep the texture soft and prevent the chocolate from melting off the cookies.

FAQs

Can I substitute peppermint extract with fresh peppermint?

While fresh peppermint leaves are wonderful in teas and drinks, peppermint extract is concentrated and works best for baking to infuse that distinct minty flavor evenly throughout the cookie dough.

What if I don’t have shortening for the chocolate dip?

You can use a small amount of coconut oil or vegetable oil as a substitute to thin the white chocolate. Just add it gradually and mix well to get a smooth dipping consistency.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or add some to ensure the right texture.

Why do the cookies need to cool completely before dipping?

If the cookies are warm when dipped, the melted white chocolate can melt unevenly or slide off. Cooling preserves the integrity of the dip and ensures a beautiful, firm coating.

How can I make the crushed candy canes last longer on the cookie?

Sprinkle the candy canes immediately after dipping while the chocolate is wet to help them stick well. Allow the chocolate to set fully at room temperature or in the fridge to lock them in place.

Final Thoughts

This White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe is a joyous celebration of holiday flavors wrapped up in a soft, chewy cookie with a crisp peppermint crunch. Baking and sharing these cookies bring so much happiness and a festive spirit in every batch. I genuinely hope you give this recipe a whirl and watch it become a beloved classic in your kitchen. Happy baking and even happier indulging!

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