Step-by-step instructions
Begin by whisking together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set this aside for later.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Next, incorporate the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract into the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until everything is well blended.
For that festive touch, add a few drops of green food coloring (if desired) and mix until the color is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Gradually fold in the reserved dry ingredients until just combined, taking care not to overmix.
Gently stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly dispersed throughout the dough.
Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the ideal cookie texture!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each ball.
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, watching for the edges to turn lightly golden while the centers remain soft.
Once done, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving mint chocolate chip cookies can be as simple as placing them on a beautiful plate, or you can get creative! Consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream next to warm cookies to create a scrumptious dessert. Pair them with a glass of cold milk or even a mint-infused hot chocolate for a cozy treat. If you’re hosting, consider adding a decorative touch with some fresh mint leaves or a sprinkling of powdered sugar for visual flair.
How to store
To keep your mint chocolate chip cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This should keep them soft and chewy for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the baked cookies. Simply place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. They can last up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just let them thaw at room temperature!
Helpful cooking tips
For the best results with your mint chocolate chip cookies, here are some insider tips:
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming with the sugars.
- Don’t skip the chilling step! This prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
- For a fudgier texture, try substituting half of the all-purpose flour with brown sugar.
- Experiment with different chocolate types—dark chocolate or even mint chocolate chips can elevate the flavor profile.
Creative twists
Why limit yourself to the classic version? Here are some fun variations to try:
- Incorporate crushed peppermint candies for an added crunch and festive touch.
- Swap out the peppermint extract for orange or almond extract for a completely different flavor experience.
- Try adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful texture contrast.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare these cookies?
From start to finish, including chilling time, expect to spend about an hour. Baking time is only about 10-12 minutes!
Can I substitute the butter with something else?
Yes! You can use margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute if needed. Just make sure it’s a stick form for proper consistency.
Is it safe to eat raw cookie dough?
The dough contains raw eggs and flour, which can pose a risk of foodborne illness. It’s always best to bake the cookies before enjoying them! If you want to indulge in safe cookie dough, consider finding a heat-treated flour recipe designed for eating raw.
