The scent of peppermint wafting through the air instantly transports me back to childhood winter holidays filled with laughter and joy. That’s exactly the spirit these Best Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies capture, as they combine the lush, creamy richness of cheesecake with the bright freshness of peppermint. With a buttery exterior and a soft, velvety center, each cookie is a delightful treat that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion that calls for a bit of cheer. These cookies not only serve as a crowd-pleaser but are also surprisingly simple to make, freeing you up to enjoy the festivities. Ready to bake and impress your friends and family with a festive twist on a classic treat? Let’s dive into this sugary adventure!
Why Choose Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies?
Irresistible Flavor: The creamy cheesecake base meets the invigorating bite of peppermint for a truly festive cookie experience.
Soft and Chewy Texture: With a velvety center and buttery edges, every bite melts in your mouth, making them exceptionally comforting.
Effortless to Make: No advanced skills needed! These cookies are straightforward, so you’ll be baking like a pro in no time.
Versatile Decorations: Customize with crushed candy canes or a drizzle of chocolate to elevate your holiday cookie platter. Looking for more festive inspiration? Try these tasty Chocolate Peppermint Cookies or decadent White Chocolate Peppermint Cupcakes for a complete holiday spread!
Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• Butter – Provides richness and moisture; can use margarine for a dairy-free option.
• Cream Cheese – Adds a creamy texture and cheese flavor; substitute with Neufchâtel cheese to lighten the fat content.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookie beautifully.
• Powdered Sugar – Contributes to a fluffy texture for a soft bite.
• Eggs – Essential for binding; ensure they’re at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Peppermint Extract – Infuses delightful mint flavor; use vanilla extract as a substitute for a non-mint version.
• Flour – Forms the base of the cookie structure.
• Baking Soda – Helps achieve that soft and chewy texture.
• Chocolate Chips – Adds a hint of sweetness and rich chocolate flavor; can replace with crushed candy canes for a festive crunch.
Optional Topping
• Crushed Candy Canes – Enhances peppermint flavor and gives a lovely festive decoration.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Best Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your peppermint cheesecake cookies won’t stick and will bake evenly. Take a moment to gather your ingredients, as this will make the next steps quick and enjoyable!
Step 2: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese using an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the granulated sugar and powdered sugar, mixing until well combined. You’ll want a fluffy texture that will enhance the rich flavor of your peppermint cheesecake cookies.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Peppermint Extract
Next, add the eggs to the creamy mixture, one at a time, making sure to mix thoroughly after each addition. This helps bind the ingredients together for a smooth dough. Then, pour in the peppermint extract, allowing its refreshing scent to fill your kitchen. This step’s crucial for infusing the cookies with that signature peppermint flavor.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda until well combined. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the dough. The dough will start to come together; this is a sign that you’re on your way to delicious peppermint cheesecake cookies!
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Once your dough is ready, gently fold in the chocolate chips with a spatula. Be careful not to break them as you mix; you want those delightful chocolate morsels intact in your peppermint cheesecake cookies. The little bursts of chocolate will add sweetness and richness, balancing the peppermint perfectly.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
Using a tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie. This allows for spreading during baking. Place the sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Look for the edges to turn golden while the centers remain soft—this will ensure the perfect chewy texture.
Step 7: Cool and Decorate
After baking, remove the peppermint cheesecake cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. Once cooled, feel free to decorate with crushed candy canes if desired, or serve them as is for a delightful holiday treat!
What to Serve with Best Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies
Indulging in the festive flavors of these cookies opens up a world of delightful pairings that complete your holiday feast.
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Creamy Hot Chocolate: A warm cup enhances the cookies’ rich flavors, wrapping you in a cozy embrace of sweetness with each sip.
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Peppermint Tea: This light herbal infusion offers a soothing contrast, perfect for complementing the uplifting peppermint notes. It’s like a warm hug for your senses!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool texture provides a delightful contrast to the warm cookies, making each bite a dreamy experience. Melted ice cream mingles with the peppermint, creating a deliciously harmonious treat.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling a bit of melted chocolate over the cookies adds an elegant touch and rich flavor, elevating your dessert game. The combination of chocolate and peppermint is a classic favorite!
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Caramel Sauce: A luscious drizzle of salted caramel transforms these cookies into a decadent treat. The sweet, gooey sauce beautifully balances the minty freshness.
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Butter Pecan Coffee: The nutty notes of this coffee pair seamlessly with the cookies, bringing out their rich butteriness while refreshing your palate.
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Candied Pecans: These add a crunchy, sweet element that enhances the elaborate flavors of the cookies, making every bite a delightful experience.
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Eggnog: Nothing says the holidays like a glass of eggnog! Its creaminess harmonizes perfectly with the peppermint cheesecake cookies, creating a festive duo.
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delightful softness and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can keep cookies in the fridge for up to 7 days; just be sure to use an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: Freeze peppermint cheesecake cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to harden, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
Reheating: To enjoy straight from the freezer, let the cookies thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes for that fresh-baked warmth.
Expert Tips for Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Letting the dough chill for 30 minutes minimizes spreading and enhances the flavors, giving you perfect peppermint cheesecake cookies.
- Perfectly Golden Edges: Keep an eye on the cookies! They should be golden at the edges while remaining soft in the center for that delightful chewy texture.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can make cookies tough rather than soft and chewy.
- Room Temperature Eggs: Use eggs at room temperature for a smoother batter and better blending of the ingredients. This ensures your cookies rise beautifully.
- Storage Solution: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days, or freeze for longer-lasting indulgence.
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies are perfect for those busy holiday weeks! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first five steps and then refrigerating the dough in an airtight container. This chilling not only enhances flavor but also helps maintain the cookies’ chewy texture. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto baking sheets and bake as directed. If you want to get even further ahead, consider baking the cookies entirely and then storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Just remember to allow them to cool completely before sealing to keep them just as delicious for your festive gatherings!
Variations & Substitutions for Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies
Feel free to explore these delicious twists and substitutions to make these cookies truly your own!
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Dairy-Free: Swap butter and cream cheese for vegan margarine and dairy-free cream cheese for a delightful dairy-free treat. Your cookies will still be wonderfully creamy and delicious!
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Lower Fat: Use Neufchâtel cheese in place of cream cheese to lighten up the fat content without sacrificing flavor. This is a great option if you want indulgence without the heaviness.
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Non-Mint Version: For those who prefer a different flavor profile, replace peppermint extract with vanilla extract. You’ll capture that lovely cookie essence while providing a classic twist.
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Chocolatey Crunch: Replace chocolate chips with mini chocolate candies or crushed candy canes for an extra festive crunch. These additions create delightful textural surprises in every bite.
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Frosted Treats: Elevate your cookies by adding a swirl of cream cheese frosting on top after baking. It transforms your cookies into an indulgent dessert that will impress everyone.
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Festive Flair: Sprinkle crushed candy canes or a pinch of sea salt on top right after baking for an added touch of crunch and visual appeal. It’s a small detail that can elevate the festive look of your cookies.
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Different Flavors: Want to try something a little different? Use almond extract instead of peppermint for a unique flavor twist that still feels holiday-inspired. It’s a subtle change that offers a comforting warmth.
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Chill Refreshment: For those who enjoy icy treats, freeze the cookie dough before baking. This method allows you to bake fresh cookies anytime you crave them—just add a few extra minutes in the oven!
These variations not only give room for creativity but can also breath new life into a classic favorite. Why not pair these delicious cookies with a warm cup of cocoa or serve them alongside some delightful Chocolate Marshmallow Swirl Cookies for an extra festive experience? Each variation sparks joy and personalized flavors!
Best Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose cream cheese that is soft and at room temperature; this makes it easier to blend with the butter. Look for fresh eggs without cracks, and make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for optimal mixing. For peppermint extract, choose a high-quality brand to ensure the freshest flavor.
What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
The more the merrier! To keep your peppermint cheesecake cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to chill them, you can keep them in the fridge for up to 7 days. Make sure they’re completely cool before sealing them away.
Can I freeze peppermint cheesecake cookies, and how?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies for up to 3 months! First, let the cookies cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until they’re hard. Once solid, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy one, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
Very! If your dough is too sticky, it may benefit from a longer chilling time in the refrigerator—around 30 minutes should help firm it up. You could also add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency. Just be cautious not to overdo it, as too much flour can make the cookies tough.
Are there any dietary considerations or allergies I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you have guests with dietary restrictions, consider using dairy-free margarine and Neufchâtel cream cheese to make these cookies suitable for lactose intolerance. For nut allergies, ensure your chocolate chips are nut-free. Always check ingredient labels when substituting to keep everyone safe.
How can I enhance the flavors of these cookies?
You can elevate the peppermint cheesecake cookies by adding crushed candy canes both into the dough and as a topping! For even more festive flavors, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an indulgent touch that pairs perfectly with the refreshing peppermint.
Irresistible Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies for Festive Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the granulated sugar and powdered sugar, mixing until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then pour in the peppermint extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips with a spatula without breaking them.
- Using a tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space. Bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely. Decorate with crushed candy canes if desired.
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