Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies

You’re going to love this twist on chocolate chip cookies! These Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with the refreshing flavor of peppermint. Perfect for holiday gatherings, birthday parties, or just a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. With their delightful mix of mint chips and chocolate, they stand out from ordinary chocolate chip cookies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of mint and chocolate creates a delightful taste that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive celebration or an everyday treat, these cookies fit right in.
• Customizable Ingredients: Use your favorite chocolate or mint chips, or mix in chopped Andes candies for extra flair.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Enjoy the perfect balance of softness and chewiness in every bite.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Wire racks

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: Makes beating the butter and sugars easier, ensuring a smooth dough.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for perfect results every time.

Ingredients

To create your Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

• 1⅔ cups all purpose flour (spooned into the measuring cups and leveled)
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened slightly but still cool)
• ½ cup light brown sugar (packed)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ½ teaspoon pure peppermint extract
• 1½ cups mint chips, chocolate chips and/or chopped Andes candies (see note)

How to Make Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat together the softened butter and both sugars for about 1-2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Add the egg and peppermint extract, then beat until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Slowly add in the flour mixture while mixing on low speed until just combined. Gently fold in 1 cup of mint chips/Andes/chocolate chips (set aside some for topping).

Step 5: Scoop Dough

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, scoop out 2-tablespoon portions of dough. Place them a couple of inches apart on your prepared baking sheets.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for about 9-11 minutes. The edges should be golden brown while the centers remain slightly underdone. If needed, rotate the baking sheets halfway through baking for even cooking. While warm, press remaining mix-ins into the tops for decoration.

Step 7: Cool

Once baked, transfer the baking sheets to wire racks to cool completely before enjoying your Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies!

How to Serve Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing, the creamy texture of milk complements the chewy cookies perfectly.

As Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Place a scoop of mint or vanilla ice cream between two cookies for a refreshing dessert.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cookies on a decorative platter along with fresh fruits and chocolate-covered treats for a festive display.

With Hot Chocolate

• Enjoy these cookies alongside a warm cup of hot chocolate for a cozy treat during chilly evenings.

As Party Favors

• Wrap individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons to give as sweet party favors at your next gathering.

Crumbled Over Yogurt

• Add crumbled cookies over a bowl of yogurt for an indulgent breakfast or snack option.

How to Perfect Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Perfecting your Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Cool Butter: Slightly softened butter helps create the perfect texture. Avoid melting it completely to maintain the structure.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined when adding flour. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps with spreading.

• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake; they should be golden at the edges but soft in the center.

• Add Extra Chips: Nestle additional chips on top right after baking for an appealing finish and extra flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies

Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some tasty options to consider.

1. Fresh Berries – Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries add a tart sweetness that complements the minty flavor.

2. Vanilla Pudding – Creamy pudding serves as a great dip or side, enhancing the overall dessert experience.

3. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the cookies.

4. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels – The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate adds texture and contrast.

5. Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses can provide an interesting savory balance to sweet treats.

6. Nut Butter Spread – Serve almond or peanut butter on the side for those who enjoy an extra layer of flavor with their cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Using warm butter – If the butter is too warm, it can lead to flat cookies. Always use slightly softened butter that is still cool.
• Overmixing the dough – Overmixing can create tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a soft and chewy texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly – Incorrect measurements can ruin your cookies. Spoon flour into measuring cups and level off for accuracy.
• Skipping parchment paper – Baking directly on the sheet can cause sticking. Always line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Not letting cookies cool completely – Cutting them too soon can result in a mushy texture. Allow cookies to cool on wire racks for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and heat for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until just warm.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat; cover and warm for a couple of minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Can I use other types of chocolate chips?

Yes! You can mix dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips with mint chips for added flavor.

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

What if I don’t have mint chips?

You can increase the amount of chocolate chips or use crushed peppermint candies as an alternative.

How do I make Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies chewy?

Make sure not to overbake them; the centers should be slightly underdone when you take them out of the oven.

Final Thoughts

Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies offer a delightful twist on classic flavors that everyone loves. Their chewy texture paired with refreshing mint makes them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize by adding different chocolate types or nuts to suit your taste!