If you’re craving a holiday treat that’s both unique and utterly delightful, the Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine soft, buttery cookies infused with creamy cheesecake goodness, brightened up by refreshing peppermint, and studded with crunchy crushed candies and luscious white chocolate chips. These cookies offer that perfect balance of rich, tangy, sweet, and minty, all baked into one irresistible bite. Whether you’re sharing them at a festive gathering or sneaking one (or three) with your afternoon coffee, these cookies will quickly become your go-to festive favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients makes baking this Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies Recipe a breeze. Each element plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and festive flair that makes these cookies so special.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Gives the cookies a rich, tender base without overwhelming saltiness.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds a creamy tang and soft texture for that signature cheesecake twist.
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough evenly and helps with browning.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients together and enriches the dough.
- 1 tsp peppermint extract: Infuses the cookies with fresh, cooling mint flavor.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a warm, aromatic note.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation providing the cookie’s shape and chew.
- 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly for a light texture.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
- 1 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes: Adds festive crunch and bursts of minty sweetness.
- 1 cup white chocolate chips: Melts slightly for pockets of creamy, sweet indulgence.
How to Make Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. In a large mixing bowl, whip together the softened unsalted butter and cream cheese until the mixture is wonderfully smooth and fluffy. This step is key because the lightness here directly affects the soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture these cookies are known for.
Step 2: Add Sugar, Egg, and Flavors
Next, beat in the granulated sugar until well combined and a bit fluffy. Then, add the egg along with the peppermint extract and vanilla extract. These added flavors will shine through as the heart of your cookie’s festive personality, giving the dough that unmistakably bright and cozy aroma.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This process helps distribute the leavening evenly and ensures that every bite maintains balance. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into your wet mixture, stirring just until everything comes together. Overmixing can toughen the dough, and we want these cookies to stay soft and tender.
Step 4: Fold in Peppermint Candies and White Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the crushed peppermint candies and white chocolate chips. The crushed candy adds joyful bursts of minty crunch, while the white chocolate chips offer gooey sweetness that melds perfectly with the cheesecake-infused dough.
Step 5: Scoop and Bake
Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart to allow for gentle spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges just start turning golden while the centers remain soft. This balance ensures a tender bite that still holds its shape. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely—this helps them set beautifully without breaking.
How to Serve Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these cookies further, try sprinkling a little extra crushed peppermint candy or a drizzle of melted white chocolate over the top just before serving. This extra pop not only enhances the festive look but also adds textural contrast and amplifies the peppermint charm.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa or peppermint mocha for a dessert experience that’s cozy and indulgent. Milk or a creamy coffee also complements the mint and cheesecake notes perfectly, balancing sweetness and creating a comforting treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday gatherings, arrange your Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies Recipe on a festive platter with fresh mint sprigs or candy cane sticks for decoration. You can also sandwich two cookies with a scoop of peppermint ice cream in between for a playful twist. This creative presentation makes them feel extra special and is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This maintains their softness and preserves the fresh peppermint flavor. Avoid storing in the fridge as it can dry them out.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these cookies later, freeze the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a sealed bag or container. They freeze wonderfully for up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature without losing their signature texture.
Reheating
To revive that just-baked warmth, pop a cookie in the microwave for about 10 seconds or warm them briefly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This will soften them up, bringing back the chewy, creamy delight you love.
FAQs
Can I use peppermint baking chips instead of crushed candies?
Absolutely! Peppermint baking chips provide a milder peppermint flavor and a smoother texture compared to crushed candy pieces. They melt more evenly into the dough, creating pockets of minty sweetness without extra crunch.
Do I have to chill the dough before baking?
Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes is optional but recommended if you want thicker cookies that hold their shape better. If you’re short on time, baking immediately also works, just expect slightly thinner cookies.
Can I substitute cream cheese with something else?
Cream cheese is essential for the cheesecake flavor and texture. If you must substitute, mascarpone cheese can work well as it has a similar consistency and mild taste, but avoid replacing it with yogurt or sour cream as they alter the dough’s consistency significantly.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking?
Using chilled dough helps control spreading. Also, make sure your butter and cream cheese are not overly soft or melted, as warmer fats encourage spreading. Baking on parchment paper or silicone mats promotes even cooking and shape retention.
Are these cookies suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies Recipe uses no animal-derived gelatin or other non-vegetarian ingredients, making it a delightful treat for vegetarian friends and family.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies Recipe that makes baking and sharing them a joyful experience. Their tender, creamy texture paired with bright peppermint and rich white chocolate chips brings instant holiday cheer to any kitchen. Trust me, once you’ve made these cookies, you’ll want to keep coming back to this recipe every festive season — and maybe even beyond. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to these festive delights and watch smiles light up the room.
