White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies spark bold cozy joy. I’m a chef who builds meal prep ideas for busy professionals and homemakers. I share simple, scalable recipes that fit a hectic schedule without losing homey comfort. This cookie recipe blends soft, chewy centers with peppermint crunch and festive white chocolate. It’s perfect for Christmas trays, gifting, or cozy nights by the fire. I love baking in big batches. The aroma fills my kitchen with peppermint magic. And yes, they freeze beautifully for easy seasonal snacking. Read on to learn how to make a batch that travels from oven to cozy moments. With this guide, joy comes out in every bite.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
What makes White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Special
White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies have a way of turning a busy weeknight into a cozy celebration. I reach for this recipe when time is tight but I crave warmth. The peppermint sparkle and creamy white chocolate bring festive joy without a kitchen marathon.
A cozy, weeknight-friendly treat
On busy weeknights, I bake these between kid homework and late emails. The aroma of White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies breaks fatigue like a warm hug. They stay tender when cooled, a small victory after a long day. I love how the dough comes together quickly, almost chatty in its ease. And how the white chocolate melts into little pockets of sweetness. The peppermint chips provide a bright crunch that keeps the bite exciting. For picky eaters, a familiar flavor helps them reach for seconds. Sharing a plate of these cookies makes the night feel calmer, like a soft blanket.

Why this cookie suits busy schedules
These cookies are a busy-person win because I can do more with less. The dough comes together in one bowl, with quick cleanup. I batch-bake and freeze the dough for quick future cravings. This recipe scales up beautifully for gifts or holiday trays. They bake in under 12 minutes, delivering warm aroma fast. Soft cookies stay tender, so I can snack while I juggle plans. The result is a small, joyful ritual that fits a busy home. Plus, the smiles on gifting trays remind me why I bake. And cleanup is quick, so I can get back to my to-do list.
White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Ingredients
For White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, gather these ingredients so the dough comes together quickly and the kitchen smells like a holiday hug. I rely on butter and sugars for tenderness, while white chocolate and peppermint chips deliver festive contrast. The egg and vanilla add depth, and the flour with baking soda provide body and lift. A pinch of salt ties every flavor together. And yes, you can print the exact quantities at the bottom of the article.
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- ½ cup peppermint baking chips or crushed candy canes
Ingredient overview: These components keep the cookies soft yet sturdy. Butter and sugars deliver chewiness, the egg supplies structure, and vanilla adds warmth. Flour with baking soda gives body and a gentle lift, while salt balances sweetness. White chocolate melts into creamy pockets, and peppermint chips add a crisp, refreshing bite. If you swap chocolate or skip peppermint, you’ll still enjoy a festive treat with a familiar, comforting feel.
Quick notes on substitutions and print-ready quantities
Substitutions and print-ready quantities: For thicker cookies, chill the dough before baking. Swap salted butter for unsalted and adjust salt by half a pinch. To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free butter and dairy-free white chocolate chips. If you crave a stronger peppermint punch, add up to ¼ tsp peppermint extract. Exact quantities are listed at the bottom of the article and are ready for printing, so you can save or share the ingredients with ease.
How to Make White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Here are practical steps to bake White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies with confidence. Each tip helps keep the cookies tender and festive.
Step 1: Preheat and prepare
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Gather your equipment so you move smoothly through the steps. Soften the butter to room temperature for easy creaming. In a large bowl, measure the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and butter. Beat until the mixture looks light and fluffy. This aeration gives the cookies their signature soft centers. If your butter is a touch cool, give it a quick stir to even it out. Have your dry ingredients ready for the next move.
Step 2: Cream butter and sugars
With the mixer on medium, beat the butter with both sugars until creamy, about two minutes. Scrape the bowl to blend every bit in. The texture should be smooth and glossy, not grainy. This step builds a tender base for the holiday cookies. A little extra air here means lighter cookies in the end. If you want a bit more chew, keep beating a few seconds longer, then stop. You’re laying the groundwork for a cozy bite.

Step 3: Add eggs and vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until just combined. Avoid overmixing at this stage to keep the cookies soft. The egg adds moisture and structure, while vanilla deepens the sweetness. If you notice slight clumps, scrape again and mix briefly. The batter should look smooth and cohesive, not separated. At this point, you can smell the holiday vibes already. Ready for the next turn, you’ll bring in the dry mixture.
Step 4: Whisk dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. A quick whisk ensures even distribution of lift and flavor. If you like an ultra-light texture, sift the flour lightly. The dry mix is the backbone that supports the cookies’ shape. Salt balances sweetness, while baking soda gives a gentle rise. Set this bowl where you can reach it easily as you blend the batter. You’re almost ready to bring the dough together.
Step 5: Combine wet and dry to form dough
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until a soft dough forms. Stop as soon as you don’t see dry flour. Overmixing can toughen cookies, so stir with a gentle hand. The dough will be thick and a bit sticky—perfect for scoop-and-bake. If it’s too soft, chill it for 15 minutes to make scooping easier. This step is where the cookies start to look like real treats for holiday trays.
Step 6: Fold in white chocolate and peppermint chips
Fold in the white chocolate chips and peppermint chips evenly. If you can’t find peppermint chips, crush candy canes finely and mix in. The white chocolate pockets melt into creamy sweetness, while peppermint adds a crisp finish. Distribute the chips so every bite has a bit of sparkle. Don’t overmix after adding chips; you want them visible and intact for texture. The dough should hold its shape but still be pliable enough to scoop easily.
Step 7: Scoop, bake, and cool
Scoop dough onto the parchment-lined sheets, spacing cookies about 2 inches apart. Bake 10–12 minutes, until the edges are set and centers stay soft. Let the cookies rest on the sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool. They’ll firm up as they cool, keeping their tender centers. If you rotate sheets halfway through, you’ll get even coloring. Store cooled cookies in an airtight container to preserve freshness for gifting or quiet evenings by the fire.
Tips for Success
- I lay out all ingredients and tools first for White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies to stay calm.
- For thicker cookies, chill the dough 30 minutes before baking.
- I use parchment-lined sheets to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
- Don’t overmix once the flour goes in; it keeps centers tender.
- Bake one sheet at a time or rotate halfway for even color.
- To save time, freeze dough logs or bake in a big batch for gifts.
Quick kitchen hacks
Quick kitchen hacks: If you’re pressed, soften butter in 10-second bursts in the microwave, just until pliable. Grate chilled butter to speed creaming without melting it. Weigh ingredients or use a scale for consistent results. Freeze dough for later by shaping into logs—slice and bake as needed. Crush candy canes or chips in a bag with a rolling pin to control peppermint intensity. Don’t overmix after adding chips, and rotate sheets for even browning.
Equipment Needed
Here’s the core gear I reach for—simple, affordable, scalable for big batches.
- Mixing bowls (one large, one medium) or a big bowl with a whisk
- Electric mixer or sturdy wooden spoon for creaming
- Parchment paper and baking sheets or silicone mats
- Cookie scoop and cooling rack
Essential tools
At minimum, you’ll want a reliable mixer, a sturdy sheet pan, and a 1-ounce scoop or rounded spoon for uniform portions. A rubber spatula, parchment, and a cooling rack finish the setup, keeping cookies tender and easy to handle. These basics cover any batch, large or small.
Variations
Flavor twists
- I whisk in 1–2 teaspoons espresso powder with the dry ingredients for a mocha kiss.
- I add 1 teaspoon orange zest for a bright peppermint glow.
- I fold in 1/2 cup toasted almonds for extra crunch.
- I drizzle caramel and a pinch of flaky salt after baking for a glossy finish.
- I boost peppermint chips to ¾ cup for a bolder bite.
- I swap in dark chocolate chunks occasionally for a bittersweet twist.
Dietary swaps
- I use dairy-free butter and dairy-free white chips for a vegan batch.
- I swap in a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend; bake still tender.
- I replace the egg with a flax egg or applesauce for allergies or vegan needs.
- I reduce sugar by a quarter and still add vanilla for softness.
- I ensure chips are vegan-certified if dairy-free is needed.

Why You’ll Love This White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
I reach for White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies when time is tight but comfort matters. They come together quickly, bake in under a dozen minutes, and fill the kitchen with a peppermint glow. Chewy centers meet crisp edges and pockets of creamy white chocolate.
They’re easy to freeze for gifts or cozy nights by the fire, which makes them a practical treat for busy weeks and a small, joyful ritual I love sharing.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies shine on a holiday platter and during late-night cocoa runs. A quick pairing list below will help you plan a cozy spread. The peppermint aroma and white chocolate pockets pair beautifully with warm drinks and simple, savory bites. They freeze well for easy gift boxes and platters this season.
- Pair with a mug of cocoa, coffee, or peppermint tea for a comforting bite.
- Arrange on a small holiday platter with fudge, citrus, and a dusting of crushed candy cane for color.
- Dust with extra crushed peppermint for sparkle and a brighter peppermint note.
- Package in cello bags with ribbons for quick, thoughtful gifts.
Pairings and presentation
Arrange cookies on a white platter with red-and-green accents for a festive pop. Pair them with peppermint cocoa, a creamy latte, or vanilla-spiked milk. Add a simple tag or ribbon to turn these into ready-made gifts. The visual sparkle elevates the cozy mood and invites sharing.
Make-Ahead Batch Plan for White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Make-ahead batches save me on days when the clock won’t stop. I love having dough or baked cookies tucked away for busy weeknights or last‑minute gifts. The peppermint aroma still greets me, and I can bake them fresh in a snap.
To freeze dough, scoop into evenly sized balls on a parchment‑lined tray. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip bag. When ready, thaw in the fridge 8–12 hours or bake from frozen with 1–2 extra minutes.
For baked cookies, cool completely, then freeze on a tray. Once solid, bag and store. Reheat in a 325°F oven for 5–7 minutes, or warm 10–15 seconds in the microwave for a quick glow.
FAQs
FAQ 1: Can I freeze the dough or baked cookies?
Yes. You can freeze both the dough and baked cookies to save time during the holidays. For dough, scoop and place on a parchment-lined tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or zip bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes. For baked cookies, fully cool, then freeze on a tray before bagging. Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave as needed.
FAQ 2: Can I adjust peppermint strength or use extracts?
Absolutely. If you want more peppermint, add up to ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract to the dough, or increase peppermint chips a touch. For a lighter bite, stick with the recipe as written. I often rely on peppermint baking chips to deliver crunch without overpowering the cookie. If you swap in extract, be mindful of intensity; start with half the amount, mix, and taste before adding more.
FAQ 3: Are these cookies kid-friendly or suitable for gifts?
Yes to both. White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are kid-friendly, with familiar flavors and soft centers that little bakers can enjoy. They make lovely gifts when bagged with a ribbon or placed on a festive platter. For kids, you can let them sprinkle crushed candy canes or help scoop the dough. If giving as gifts, consider making a mini batch for neighbors or teachers—two dozen cookies travel well and spread holiday cheer.
FAQ 4: Can I substitute other chocolates or add-ins?
Definitely. You can swap in dark chocolate chunks, milk chocolate, or a mix of chips for different flavors. If you skip peppermint, try white chocolate with dried cranberries or chopped nuts for texture. You can also add a pinch of orange zest or espresso powder for a new twist. Keep the base ratios similar so the dough still holds together and bakes evenly.
These White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies remind me why I bake in the first place: rituals that quicken the ordinary into something bright. When the peppermint scent fills the kitchen, I feel steadier, ready to tackle a busy day or a quiet evening with a cup of tea. The soft centers and bright chips travel well, making gifts feel personal without fuss. I love teaching my family and friends that holiday comfort can be simple, scalable, and kind to an overstuffed schedule. If you try one batch, you’ll discover how a tray of cookies can spark connection, warmth, and holiday magic.
Print
White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies spark 3 Bold Cozy Joy.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are soft, chewy treats infused with festive peppermint and studded with white chocolate. They deliver cozy holiday comfort with a refreshing peppermint crunch, making them perfect for Christmas trays, gifting, or cozy nights by the fire. Simple to bake and scalable for big batches, these cookies fill your kitchen with warm peppermint aroma, stay tender as they cool, and freeze well for easy seasonal snacking.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- ½ cup peppermint baking chips or crushed candy canes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
- Fold in white chocolate chips and peppermint chips evenly.
- Scoop dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing cookies apart.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are set and centers are soft.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For thicker cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- If you prefer a stronger peppermint flavor, add 1/4 tsp peppermint extract.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze baked cookies for up to 1 month.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: ~160-180 per cookie
- Sugar: 12-15 g
- Sodium: 65-120 mg
- Fat: 8-10 g
- Saturated Fat: 4-6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2-4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22-26 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2-3 g
- Cholesterol: 15-25 mg
Keywords: White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, peppermint cookies, holiday cookies, Christmas cookies, festive cookies, easy peppermint cookies, cookies with white chocolate