Name: Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies: Quick Festive Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (softened); 1.25 cups Brown Sugar (packed); 0.75 cups Granulated Sugar; 2 large Eggs (room temperature); 2.5 tsp Vanilla Extract (Madagascar preferred); 3 cups Flour (all-purpose); 2 tsp Cornstarch; 1 tsp Baking Soda; 1 tsp Salt; 12 oz Peppermint Crunch (crushed); 0.5 cups Semi-sweet or Dark Chocolate Chips; 1.5 cups Crushed Oreos (about 15 cookies)

As I sifted through my holiday baking supplies, the unmistakable scent of peppermint wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to cozy winter evenings spent with loved ones. That’s when I decided it was time to whip up a batch of Quick & Simple Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies. These delightful treats not only combine the classic taste of chocolate and mint but also come together in just 30 minutes, making them a lifesaver for busy festive schedules. Perfect for both baking novices and seasoned pros, this recipe guarantees a chewy, mouthwatering texture that will have your friends and family rushing back for seconds. Are you ready to spread some holiday cheer with these irresistible cookies?

Why Are These Cookies a Must-Bake?

Quick preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can have a batch of festive treats ready to delight your loved ones.

Chewy delight: These cookies feature a soft center with a satisfying chew, perfectly balancing the rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint flavors.

Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking for the perfect gift, these Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies are sure to impress everyone.

Versatile ingredients: Feel free to mix it up! Swap Oreos for different flavored varieties or add scrumptious mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit to suit your taste.

Easy for all skill levels: Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned baker, this recipe is straightforward, ensuring success with minimal effort!

Once you try these cookies, be prepared to make them your holiday staple!

Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Butter – 1 cup, softened; provides moisture and richness, substitute with unsalted butter and add 1/4 tsp extra salt if needed.
Brown Sugar – 1 1/4 cups, packed; adds moisture and chewiness, dark brown sugar enhances the flavor.
Granulated Sugar – 3/4 cup; sweetener that adds texture.
Eggs – 2, room temperature; binds ingredients and gives structure to the cookies.
Vanilla Extract – 2 1/2 tsp, Madagascar preferred; enhances the cookie flavor.
Flour – 3 cups, all-purpose; this forms the base structure of your cookies.
Cornstarch – 2 tsp; prevents spreading for a thicker cookie; can swap with equal parts all-purpose flour.
Baking Soda – 1 tsp; acts as a leavening agent for the perfect rise.
Salt – 1 tsp; balances the overall sweetness.

For the Festive Mix-ins

Peppermint Crunch – 12 oz, crushed; adds a delightful peppermint flavor, may substitute with crushed candy canes mixed with white chocolate chips.
Semi-sweet or Dark Chocolate Chips – 1/2 cup; enhances the rich chocolate flavor, can be replaced with white or mint chocolate chips.
Crushed Oreos – 1 1/2 cups, about 15 cookies; brings flavor, texture, and a festive touch; consider mint Oreos for extra mintiness.

Now that you have everything you need for these Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies, let’s move on to crafting your deliciously sweet holiday treats!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This step ensures that the Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies bake evenly and don’t stick. While waiting for the oven, you can gather the rest of your ingredients to streamline the process.

Step 2: Crush and Combine Dry Ingredients
Using a food processor, crush the Oreos and peppermint candy until they form fine pieces. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. This dry mixture provides the foundation for your cookies while preventing them from spreading too much during baking.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a stand mixer, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium speed for about 3 to 4 minutes until light and fluffy. The mixture should be pale in color and airy, which helps to create the chewy texture that makes these Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies so delightful.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition. Include the vanilla extract and continue mixing until everything is combined smoothly. This will create a rich and flavorful batter, enhancing the overall taste of your cookies.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of your Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies. A few streaks of flour remaining is perfectly fine.

Step 6: Fold in Festive Mix-ins
Gently fold in the crushed peppermint, Oreos, and chocolate chips using a spatula. This step ensures your cookies will have bursts of flavor and texture in every bite, making them a festive treat for holiday gatherings.

Step 7: Scoop the Cookie Dough
Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them at least 2 inches apart. This spacing prevents the cookies from merging together as they spread in the oven, allowing each Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookie to maintain its shape.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the trays in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear slightly underbaked. This is key for achieving that perfect chewy texture, as they will continue to cook slightly on the baking sheet once out of the oven.

Step 9: Cool and Transfer
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This time helps them set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The gentle cooling process keeps them soft and allows the flavors to meld beautifully in each bite of the Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies.

Storage Tips for Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. They can be enjoyed later, maintaining their festive flavors.
Dough Storage: Prepare the cookie dough in advance and freeze it. When ready to bake, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and add 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: If desired, warm up the cookies in a microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving to restore that freshly-baked taste and chewy texture of your Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies.

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it to maintain its freshness and texture. Simply mix the dough, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before scooping and baking as instructed. Alternatively, you can freeze the rolled dough balls for up to 3 months; just add an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen for delightful, festive treats any time you need them!

Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies: Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen by customizing these delightful cookies to match your taste and dietary needs!

Nut-Free: Replace chocolate chips with sunflower seed chips for a nut-free alternative that still delivers on sweetness.
This way, everyone can enjoy your festive treats without worry, bringing joy to all!
Minty Explosion: Use mint Oreos in place of regular Oreos for double the minty goodness.
Pairing this with a drizzle of white chocolate can really elevate the holiday vibes.
Holiday Spices: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm holiday spice flavor.
These classic scents and tastes will bring a nostalgic twist to your Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Many blends on the market work wonderfully in cookies, retaining that glorious chewy texture everyone loves!
Reduced Sugar: For a slightly healthier approach, cut back on the sugars by 1/4 cup without sacrificing flavor.
Alternatively, using coconut sugar can offer a different, delightful taste while being a bit kinder to your waistline.
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
This makes the cookies rich and delicious while being friendly for those avoiding dairy.
Flavor Boost: Incorporate a teaspoon of peppermint extract for an extra punch of peppermint flavor.
This small tweak can amplify the holiday spirit in each cookie!
Chewy Crunch: Mix in 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and depth.
Adding a variety of textures can make your cookies even more exciting and fun to eat.

These ideas not only make your Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies uniquely yours but also ensure everyone at your holiday gatherings finds their favorite! Embrace the joy of baking, and remember, experimenting is all part of the fun!

Expert Tips for Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies

Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 2 hours helps prevent cookies from spreading too much during baking, ensuring a thicker texture.
Proper Mixing: Avoid overmixing after adding the flour; mix just until combined for the best chewy consistency in your Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies.
Check for Doneness: Take the cookies out of the oven when the edges are golden and centers look slightly underbaked for that perfect chewy center.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially the baking soda and chocolate chips, are fresh for optimal flavor and rise in your cookies.
Store with Bread: To keep your cookies soft, store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread. The moisture from the bread will keep them delightful for days.

What to Serve with Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies

Treat your loved ones to a delightful feast that complements these festive cookies with warmth and flavor.

Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy, rich cocoa pairs beautifully, enhancing the minty flavor in the cookies.
Warm your mugs, top with whipped cream, and enjoy the cozy blend of melted chocolate and peppermint.
Minty Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream complements the chewy texture of the cookies while refreshing the palate.
Ideal for those warm holiday parties, it provides a dreamy contrast that everyone will love.
Sugar Cookies: Soft, buttery sugar cookies add a subtle sweetness that balances the intense flavors of the peppermint Oreo cookies.
Serve them adorned with colorful icing for an extra festive touch, creating a delightful cookie platter.
Fruit Salad: A bright, fresh fruit salad offers a refreshing contrast that lightens up the sweetness of the cookies—perfect to cleanse the palate!
With juicy berries, citrus segments, and crisp apples, it brings a color burst to your dessert spread.
Spiced Apple Cider: The warm spices of apple cider tie in beautifully with the holiday spirit and accentuate the cookies’ mintiness.
Serve it hot, and let the enticing aroma fill your home, creating that perfect holiday atmosphere.
Eggnog: This creamy, spiced drink is a holiday classic that pairs beautifully with chocolate and peppermint flavors.
The festive spirit comes alive in every sip, making it a charming addition to your holiday gathering.
Chocolate Fondue: Invite everyone to indulge by dipping cookies into a warm, velvety chocolate fondue.
It creates a fun and interactive experience that enhances the delicious chocolate flavor of your Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies.
Peanut Butter Blossoms: The nutty flavor of classic peanut butter cookies with a chocolate kiss adds a delightful contrast to these festive treats.
The textures mingle beautifully, making each bite a celebration of flavors.

Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best peppermint for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing peppermint crunch, look for vibrant red and white pieces without any dark spots or discoloration. Quality peppermint candy should have a strong aroma and a crisp texture. If you’re using crushed candy canes as a substitute, opt for ones that are fresh and not too soft.

How should I store my Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also place a slice of fresh bread in the container; this added moisture will help maintain their delightful softness.

Can I freeze my Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your baked cookies, wait until they are completely cooled, then layer them in an airtight container or freezer bag with parchment paper in between each cookie. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore their warmth.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies end up spreading too much, it could be caused by a few factors, such as the butter being too warm or not chilling the dough. For future batches, ensure your butter is cold and cubed before mixing, and please chill the dough for at least 2 hours. This step will help create a thicker cookie that maintains its shape.

Are there any allergy considerations to keep in mind?
Absolutely! These Christmas Peppermint Oreo Cookies contain gluten, dairy, and eggs, which can be allergens for some individuals. For a nut-free version, be cautious with chocolate chips; opt for specially labeled brands. If you’re catering to someone with a severe allergy, always verify the ingredient sources for potential cross-contamination.