The scent of peppermint swirling through your kitchen is enough to tell you the holidays have arrived. Peppermint cookies aren’t just another seasonal sweet—they’re a celebration of all things merry and bright. Whether you’re looking to bake with the kids, prep ahead for a cookie exchange, or add a vibrant touch to your dessert table, these festive, candy cane-studded cookies are just the thing.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to make peppermint cookies from scratch, what ingredients make them truly shine, and how to tweak the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. You’ll also discover serving ideas, flavor variations, storage tips, and answers to the most common questions people have about baking these minty marvels.
Don’t miss our Christmas Cookie Bars if you’re looking to expand your holiday cookie tray this year.
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Why Peppermint Cookies Are a Must for Your Holiday Baking
The flavor of the season: Why peppermint reigns during the holidays
Nothing says winter like peppermint. From peppermint bark to hot cocoa stirrers, the cool, refreshing bite of peppermint pairs perfectly with rich sweets. Peppermint cookies take full advantage of this holiday favorite, offering a bright contrast to traditional warm spice-based cookies. The addition of crushed candy canes brings not just flavor, but a satisfying crunch and visual flair.
These cookies are especially popular around Christmas, where red and white hues feel right at home on the dessert table. Their look alone makes them perfect for gifting, and their taste? Even better.
Texture meets taste: What makes peppermint cookies special
What sets peppermint cookies apart is the satisfying combination of textures. You get the buttery softness of the cookie base, the melt-in-your-mouth creaminess of white chocolate chips, and the crisp edges of crushed candy canes. The balance between sweet and minty delivers a bite that’s indulgent but refreshing.
Peppermint cookies often fall into the “no chill dough” category, which makes them incredibly quick to prepare. With just a few pantry staples and some candy canes, you’ll have cookies that rival any bakery offering.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Festive Cinnamon Rolls for another crowd-pleasing winter bake.
Healthier indulgence: Low-effort, no-chill dough, pantry-friendly ingredients
One of the biggest perks of making peppermint cookies is that they don’t require hours of preparation. No need to chill the dough—just mix, scoop, and bake. Most of the ingredients are already in your pantry: flour, butter, sugar, and baking soda.
Using only egg whites makes the cookies lighter and gives a fluffier texture. And if you want a slightly denser, chewier cookie, a splash of half-and-half can be used instead. Plus, peppermint extract is surprisingly potent, so a little goes a long way.
Check out our Christmas Candy Bark if you’re interested in no-bake peppermint treats for your holiday party.
Ingredients & Substitutions for the Best Peppermint Cookies
Pantry staples + peppermint magic: What you really need
To make perfect peppermint cookies, here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Salted Butter | 8 tbsp (½ cup) softened | Adds richness and structure |
| Granulated Sugar | ⅔ cup | Sweetens and creates a tender crumb |
| Egg Whites | 2 (room temperature) | Adds structure while keeping them light |
| Peppermint Extract | ¼ to ½ tsp | Infuses the dough with minty flavor |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1 ¾ cups | Forms the base of the cookie dough |
| Baking Soda | ½ tsp | Helps cookies rise and spread evenly |
| White Chocolate Chips | ¾ cup | Creamy contrast to the peppermint crunch |
| Crushed Peppermint Candy | ½ cup (about 8 candy canes) | Adds flavor and festive decoration |
These cookies are not only festive but flexible. If you’re missing something, keep reading.
Creative swaps: Making it gluten-free, dairy-free, or egg-free
Need to make these peppermint cookies more diet-friendly? It’s easier than you think:
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s designed for baking.
- Dairy-Free: Swap the butter with a dairy-free baking stick, and use dairy-free white chocolate chips.
- Egg-Free: Use a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 2.5 tbsp water) or replace egg whites with 3 tbsp half-and-half or applesauce.
Don’t miss our Molasses Cookies for a spice-forward treat that’s also easy to customize.
Flavor boosters: What to add for extra richness and crunch
If you want to elevate your peppermint cookies further, try:
- A drizzle of melted white chocolate or candy melts on top after baking
- Sprinkling coarse sugar before baking for a sparkle finish
- Swapping white chocolate chips with semi-sweet for a deeper flavor contrast
- Mixing in chopped peppermint bark for a gourmet twist
Discover great ideas like these in our Twix Thumbprint Cookies for more creative cookie variations.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Peppermint Cookies Like a Pro
Peppermint cookies might look impressive, but the process is incredibly beginner-friendly. No dough chilling, no special equipment—just a few simple steps and a handful of smart baking tricks will get you bakery-quality results in under 30 minutes.
Dough tips: Mixing, folding, and avoiding overmixing
Start by creaming together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy—this should take about one minute using a hand or stand mixer. This aerates the dough and sets the foundation for soft, tender cookies.
Next, beat in your egg whites and peppermint extract. Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature so they incorporate fully without curdling. This step helps the cookies stay light but still chewy.
In a separate bowl, whisk the flour and baking soda to evenly distribute the leavening. Add it gradually to the butter mixture, beating on low until just combined. Overmixing at this stage can make the cookies tough instead of soft.
Fold in the white chocolate chips and crushed candy canes last. Use a spatula and mix just until the add-ins are evenly spread throughout. If you mix too much, the candy canes can melt and create pockets of stickiness.
Check out our Reese’s Pieces Cookies for more ideas on folding in candy and chocolate add-ins the right way.
Scooping & spacing: Getting even cookies every time
Use a medium cookie scoop or two tablespoons of dough per cookie. Roll the dough between your hands for a uniform ball—this ensures even baking.
Place them at least 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. These cookies will spread slightly, so don’t overcrowd. If you’re baking multiple trays, rotate the pans halfway through for consistent results.
Want more holiday cookie inspiration? Don’t miss our Christmas Cookie Bars—a crowd-pleasing dessert tray addition.
Baking & finishing: Avoiding spreading, adding toppings, storing right
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are set and just beginning to brown. The centers might look a little underdone, but they’ll continue baking as they cool.
Here’s a trick: add a few extra white chocolate chips to the tops of the cookies right after they come out of the oven. This gives them that polished, bakery-style finish.
Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This resting time helps the structure set and prevents crumbling.
Troubleshooting tip: If your cookies are spreading too much, it’s likely due to warm dough or over-creamed butter. Chill the dough for 10–15 minutes if needed.
Looking for more indulgent treats with eye-catching finishes? Discover our Cinnamon Roll Cookies—they’re every bit as festive as they are flavorful.
Serving Ideas & Presentation Tips
Peppermint cookies are more than just delicious—they’re versatile and visually striking, making them perfect for gifting, holiday dessert spreads, or creative presentations.
Gifting ideas: How to package peppermint cookies for friends
These cookies hold their shape well, making them perfect for holiday gifts. Stack them in clear treat bags tied with red ribbon, or layer them in festive tins with parchment paper between layers. Add a handwritten tag with the ingredients and a holiday message for a personal touch.
Planning a holiday baking day? Learn more about gifting options in our Christmas Candy Bark Recipe, another beautiful and giftable peppermint treat.
Dessert spreads: Pairing these cookies with other seasonal treats
On a dessert table, peppermint cookies pair beautifully with chocolate treats, spiced desserts, and fruit-forward sweets. Try placing them next to brownies, shortbread, or cranberry-based desserts to offer visual and flavor contrast.
Want to mix it up? Pair them with warm drinks like mulled cider or eggnog to enhance their minty sweetness.
Dips & drizzles: White chocolate, mint glazes, and more
Elevate your peppermint cookies with:
- A white chocolate drizzle using melted chips and a piping bag
- A mint glaze made with powdered sugar and peppermint extract
- A dusting of crushed candy canes after drizzling for added texture
You can also sandwich two cookies with peppermint frosting or vanilla buttercream for an ultra-decadent treat.
Don’t miss our Festive Cinnamon Rolls if you love crowd-friendly holiday bakes with rich toppings.
Peppermint Cookies Variations You’ll Love
Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or just mixing things up for fun, there are endless ways to reinvent the classic peppermint cookie. Here are a few delicious twists to try this season.
Peppermint chocolate chip cookies
Love a chocolate-mint combo? Simply swap out the white chocolate chips for semi-sweet or dark chocolate. The rich cocoa flavor balances the peppermint beautifully, making this a bolder, more decadent version.
You can also fold in mini chocolate chips for a smoother bite, or add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dough for double chocolate peppermint cookies.
Looking for inspiration? Try our Magic Brownie Cookies to explore more chocolate-based cookie ideas.
White chocolate peppermint cookie bars
Turn your dough into bars by pressing it into a parchment-lined 9×9 baking dish. Bake at 350°F for 18–20 minutes, or until the edges are golden. Once cooled, drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle crushed candy canes for a gorgeous dessert tray centerpiece.
This version is excellent for gifting or serving large groups—no scooping required.
Vegan peppermint cookies
To go fully plant-based, use vegan butter, a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp flax + 2.5 tbsp water), and dairy-free white chocolate chips. The results? Just as delicious and just as festive.
You can even use coconut sugar for a more natural sweetness and add a pinch of cinnamon for extra depth.
Storing, Freezing & Make-Ahead Tips
Whether you’re prepping ahead for a party or trying to enjoy leftovers later, peppermint cookies are very freezer-friendly and easy to store.
Storage timeline: Room temp, fridge, and freezer
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Refrigerator: Not necessary, but can keep cookies slightly firmer for up to a week
- Freezer (Baked Cookies): Freeze individually wrapped cookies in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 1 month
Don’t miss our Cookie Empanadas if you’re stocking up your freezer with handheld holiday desserts.
Make-ahead hacks: Chilling, shaping, and freezing the dough
- Freeze the Dough: Scoop dough into balls and freeze on a tray. Once solid, store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Bake from Frozen: Add 1–2 extra minutes to the baking time—no need to thaw.
- Refrigerate the Dough: For up to 3 days. Great for planning around a busy holiday schedule.
This flexibility is perfect when baking large batches ahead of parties or cookie exchanges.
Reheating and refreshing: Keeping cookies soft after freezing
To restore softness, microwave each cookie for 8–10 seconds or let thaw at room temperature in a covered container to prevent drying.
You can also pop them in a 300°F oven for 3–4 minutes for a just-baked texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use mint extract instead of peppermint?
Yes, but note that mint extract typically has a blend of spearmint and peppermint, so the flavor may be less sharp. If you’re aiming for a true peppermint profile, peppermint extract is the better choice.
Why did my cookies spread too much?
Most likely, your dough was too warm or your butter too soft. For best results, chill the dough for 10–15 minutes if your kitchen is warm, and avoid over-creaming the butter.
Can I double this recipe easily?
Absolutely. Just double each ingredient and mix in a large bowl. When doubling, it’s especially important not to overmix once the flour goes in.
Are crushed candy canes better than peppermint candies?
Yes. Candy canes are thinner and crush more easily. Round peppermint candies tend to be harder and can create large chunks that melt unevenly.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
They’re best within 4 days at room temperature, but you can freeze them for up to a month. Just wrap tightly to avoid freezer burn.
Conclusion: Why Peppermint Cookies Deserve a Spot on Your Holiday Table
With their snowy white chips, vibrant red candy cane flecks, and crisp minty finish, peppermint cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a celebration. They’re quick to make, gorgeous to look at, and adaptable to every occasion, from cookie swaps to Christmas Eve dessert tables.
Whether you’re sticking to the classic or branching out with chocolate, vegan, or bar versions, peppermint cookies are a timeless recipe worth returning to every holiday season.
Don’t miss our full collection of Christmas and holiday desserts to keep your festive baking list exciting and crowd-pleasing.
PrintPeppermint Cookies
These peppermint cookies are a festive, buttery treat packed with white chocolate chips and crushed candy canes—perfect for holiday gifting, cookie exchanges, or a winter dessert tray.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 tablespoons salted butter (½ cup), softened
- ⅔ cup granulated white sugar
- 2 egg whites, room temperature
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¾ cup white chocolate chips
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candy (about 8 regular-sized candy canes)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and creamy (about 1 minute).
- Add egg whites and peppermint extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking soda, then gradually add to wet mixture. Mix just until combined.
- Fold in white chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candy.
- Scoop 2 tablespoons of dough, roll into balls, and place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between cookies.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are set and just turning golden.
- Remove from oven and optionally top with extra white chocolate chips. Cool on the sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- Chill dough for 10–15 minutes if cookies spread too much.
- Swap white chocolate chips with dark or semi-sweet for a bolder flavor.
- For a vegan version, use vegan butter, dairy-free chips, and a flax egg.
- Dough can be frozen for up to 3 months; bake directly from frozen with 1–2 extra minutes.
- Let cookies cool completely before storing to maintain texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 62mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.2g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 11mg
