Name: Peppermint Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup butter (softened); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/3 cup mini real semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon finely crushed peppermint candy; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla; 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract; 1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon finely crushed candy canes

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There’s something magical about the combination of peppermint and chocolate, especially during the winter months. The aroma that fills the kitchen while baking Peppermint Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies can instantly transport you to a cozy holiday gathering. I remember the first time I baked these cookies; it was a chilly afternoon, and I decided to surprise my family with a sweet treat. As the cookies baked, the sweet scent wafted through the house, drawing my kids in like a warm hug. Every bite of these buttery cookies, studded with mini chocolate chips and a hint of peppermint, is a reminder of festive cheer and cherished moments around the table.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
1 g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
6 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl

Why This Peppermint Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies Stands Out

Irresistibly Buttery

One of the first things you’ll notice about Peppermint Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies is their delightful crumbly texture. The use of butter not only enriches the flavor but also gives these cookies that melt-in-your-mouth quality that makes them oh-so-addictive.

Holiday Spirit

The blend of peppermint and chocolate in this recipe is a perfect nod to the holiday season. Whether enjoyed with a warm cup of cocoa or gifted in festive tins, these cookies bring joy and warmth to any gathering.

Quick and Easy

With just a few simple ingredients, making Peppermint Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies is a breeze. You can whip up a batch in no time, making them the perfect choice for unexpected guests or last-minute holiday parties.

Customizable Toppings

Feel free to get creative with the toppings! The drizzle of melted chocolate chips and sprinkling of crushed candy canes give these cookies a festive flair, but you can also experiment with other toppings to suit your taste.

Fun to Bake with Kids

This recipe is not only delicious but also a fun activity to do with your kids. Rolling the dough, slicing it, and adding toppings can turn baking into a delightful family bonding experience, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Ingredients for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies

The ingredients for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies are simple yet effective, working together to create a delicious treat. The key players in this recipe are butter, which gives the cookies their tenderness, and peppermint extract, which adds that festive flavor. Each ingredient is chosen not just for its flavor but also for its role in achieving the perfect texture and taste.

1/2 cup butter, softened – The star ingredient of any shortbread, providing richness and a crumbly texture.
1 cup all-purpose flour – This helps create the structure of the cookie, allowing it to bake up perfectly.
1/4 cup powdered sugar – Adds sweetness while ensuring a tender crumb.
1/3 cup mini real semi-sweet chocolate chips – These little bites of chocolate provide bursts of flavor in every cookie.
1 tablespoon finely crushed peppermint candy – Infuses the cookies with a delightful minty crunch.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla – A hint of vanilla rounds out the flavors beautifully.
1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract – Enhances the peppermint flavor, making it festive and refreshing.
Drizzle and Topping:
1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – For drizzling over the cookies, adding a sweet finish.
2 tablespoons butter – Used to melt with the chocolate chips for the drizzle.
1 tablespoon finely crushed candy canes – A perfect garnish that adds both color and a festive feel.

Instructions for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies

Making Peppermint Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies is an enjoyable process that fills your kitchen with festive scents. You’ll start by preparing your oven and mixing the ingredients, and before you know it, you’ll have a batch of cookies ready to enjoy. Follow these steps closely to ensure the best results.

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a crucial step as it ensures your cookies bake evenly. Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
In a large bowl, place 1/2 cup of softened butter. Using a mixer, beat the butter until it becomes fluffy and light in color, which usually takes about two to three minutes. This aeration is key for texture.
Add in 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/4 cup of powdered sugar. Mix at low speed until the ingredients are well combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a dough that holds together but isn’t too stiff.
Next, incorporate 1/3 cup of mini chocolate chips, 1 tablespoon of crushed peppermint candy, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla, and 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Continue beating until the mixture is just combined. You should see flecks of chocolate and peppermint throughout your dough.
Now it’s time to shape your dough. Roll it into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap the log in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for about an hour. This chilling step is essential for shaping and helps the cookies retain their form while baking.
After an hour, remove the dough from the fridge and slice it into 3/4 inch thick rounds. Place the cookie slices on the prepared cookie sheet, leaving some space between each piece as they will spread slightly while baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them—they’re ready when the edges are lightly golden brown. Don’t overbake, as they will continue to firm up after being removed from the oven.
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the pan for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and makes them easier to handle.
For the drizzle, combine 1/3 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons of butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in the microwave for 30 to 45 seconds until melted, then stir until smooth.
Using a fork, drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled cookies. Finally, sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of crushed candy canes to add an extra festive touch and some crunch.

Things Worth Knowing

Chilling the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill helps solidify the butter, ensuring the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Ingredient Temperature: Ensure all your ingredients, especially the butter, are at room temperature for easier mixing.
Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing the dough once you add the flour to keep your cookies tender.
Watch the Bake Time: Different ovens may vary; check on the cookies a minute or two before the recommended bake time.

Recipe Notes about Peppermint Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cookie-making experience is smooth and successful. These notes can make a big difference in your final product.

Storage: Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can last for up to a week at room temperature.
Freezing: You can freeze the cookie dough log before slicing. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw it in the fridge before slicing and baking.
Variations: Feel free to substitute the chocolate chips with white chocolate or dark chocolate for a different flavor.
Serving Size: These cookies are perfect for gifting! Package them in festive tins for a thoughtful homemade gift.
Batch Size: This recipe can be easily doubled if you have a larger crowd to please during the holidays.

Serving Ideas for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies

When it comes to serving Peppermint Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies, the possibilities are endless! Here are some delightful ideas to consider:

Tea Time: Enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee. The rich buttery flavor complements the warmth perfectly.
Holiday Parties: Bring these to holiday gatherings for a sweet treat that everyone will love. They make a fantastic addition to a cookie platter.
Gift Giving: Package them in decorative boxes or bags as holiday gifts. Everyone appreciates a homemade cookie!
Seasonal Celebrations: These cookies are especially fitting during winter holidays but can be enjoyed any time you crave something sweet.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

FAQ

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for mini semi-sweet chocolate chips, feel free to mix things up. You can use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor or even white chocolate for a sweeter treat. Each type of chocolate will bring its unique touch to your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies, so don’t hesitate to experiment!

To prevent your cookies from spreading too much during baking, make sure to chill the dough for at least an hour before slicing and baking. This step is crucial as it firms up the fat in the dough, allowing your cookies to hold their shape better. Additionally, ensure the butter is softened but not melted, as overly soft butter can lead to excess spreading.

Yes, you can enhance the peppermint flavor in your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies. If you enjoy a stronger minty taste, consider adding an extra 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough. Just be cautious not to overdo it, as peppermint extract can be quite potent!

The best way to store your cookies is in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their freshness for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies or the dough log for later use. Just remember to allow them to thaw before serving!

Conclusion

The magic of Peppermint Chocolate Chip Shortbread Cookies lies in their delightful blend of flavors and textures. They make the perfect sweet treat for any occasion, especially during the festive season. I encourage you to try making these cookies, as they are not only easy to prepare but also sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying them with a warm drink or gifting them to loved ones, these cookies are bound to bring smiles all around.