Peppermint Oreo Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season, you’ve come to the right place! These Peppermint Oreo Cookies are not only a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavor with every bite. Loaded with chocolate chips and crunchy bits of Oreos and Andes Peppermint Crunch, they bring that festive spirit straight into your kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering, a cookie exchange party, or just a sweet indulgence after a long day, these cookies are sure to win hearts.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to whip up. You can have them ready in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Let’s dive into why you’ll fall in love with these Peppermint Oreo Cookies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious cookies in your hands in under 30 minutes!
• Family-Friendly Fun: Kids and adults alike will enjoy getting involved in the mixing and scooping process.
• Perfect for Sharing: Bake up a batch for holiday parties or gift them to friends; everyone will appreciate this thoughtful treat.
• Decadent Flavors: The combination of minty freshness and rich chocolate is an irresistible classic that’s hard to beat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to baking, I always love using simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. For these Peppermint Oreo Cookies, you likely have most of these items in your pantry already!

Ingredients:
– 1 cup salted butter, (cold and cubed)
– 1 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 3 cups all-purpose flour ((423g))
– 2 teaspoons cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 3/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 (10-ounce) bag Andes peppermint crunch pieces
– 1 1/2 cups roughly crushed Oreo cookies ((about 12-14 Oreos))
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Variations

The great thing about these Peppermint Oreo Cookies is their flexibility! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Nuts: Throw in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Change the Chips: Swap out semisweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate or dark chocolate if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Make Them Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.
• Use Different Crushes: Instead of Oreos, try crushed peppermint patties or candy canes for an added twist!

How to Make Peppermint Oreo Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. This step is key because it ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown finish.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixer bowl, beat together the cold cubed butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium-high speed for about 3-4 minutes. You want it to be creamy and light—this creates that wonderful texture we all love in cookies!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, crack in those two large eggs along with the vanilla extract. Beat everything together until well combined, making sure to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl. This helps incorporate all ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to add your dry ingredients: flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Mix just until everything is combined—overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

Step 5: Stir in the Goodies

Gently fold in the Andes peppermint baking bits, crushed Oreos, and chocolate chips. This is where the magic happens! Each cookie will be loaded with delightful surprises.

Step 6: Scoop onto Baking Sheets

Using a large cookie scoop (about 1/4 cup), scoop generous balls of dough onto lined baking sheets. Be sure to space them a couple inches apart so they have room to spread while baking.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place your cookie sheets in the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes until they’re set and just golden brown around the edges. They might look slightly underbaked in the middle—that’s okay! Let them cool on the sheets for at least five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

And there you have it—delicious Peppermint Oreo Cookies ready to share (or enjoy all by yourself)! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Peppermint Oreo Cookies

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with a few simple tips, you can ensure your Peppermint Oreo Cookies turn out perfectly every time!

• Use cold butter: Starting with cold, cubed butter helps create a lighter texture in your cookies. This technique prevents the dough from becoming too soft and ensures those delightful chewy edges.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until ingredients are combined keeps your cookies tender. Overmixing develops gluten, which can lead to a tougher cookie rather than the soft, chewy treat we all love.
• Scoop evenly: Using a large cookie scoop ensures that all your cookies bake uniformly. This means they’ll all have the same delicious texture and flavor, making them perfect for sharing.
• Chill the dough (optional): If you have time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can enhance the flavors and help control spreading. It’s an extra step that pays off with even better cookies!
• Watch the baking time: Since ovens vary, start checking your cookies at around 10 minutes. They should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center. This will keep them from becoming overbaked.

How to Serve Peppermint Oreo Cookies

These festive cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some fun ideas on how to serve them up for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Crushed Candy Canes: A sprinkle of crushed candy canes on top adds an extra festive touch and enhances that peppermint flavor.
• Drizzle of White Chocolate: A light drizzle of melted white chocolate brings a sweet contrast to the rich chocolate base of the cookie.

Side Dishes

• Hot Cocoa: A warm mug of hot cocoa pairs beautifully with these cookies, enhancing their chocolatey goodness while providing a cozy feel.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy vanilla ice cream complements the minty flavor perfectly and adds a lovely contrast of temperature and texture.
• Coffee or Espresso: For adults who enjoy a little caffeine kick, pairing these cookies with coffee or espresso elevates their taste profile and makes for a delightful dessert experience.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances out the richness of the cookies. Consider using seasonal fruits like strawberries or citrus for added brightness.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Peppermint Oreo Cookies will surely be a hit at any gathering! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Peppermint Oreo Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can bake a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week, making them an excellent treat for busy days or holiday gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• For optimal freshness, place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies to help retain moisture.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container.
• Frozen cookies can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place frozen or refrigerated cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Peppermint Oreo Cookies!

Can I make Peppermint Oreo Cookies without butter?

Yes! You can substitute the salted butter with a dairy-free option like coconut oil or vegan butter for a delicious alternative.

How should I store Peppermint Oreo Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or freeze them for longer storage!

What other variations can I try with Peppermint Oreo Cookies?

Feel free to mix in different types of chocolate chips, or use seasonal candies like crushed candy canes for extra festive flair!

Are Peppermint Oreo Cookies suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! These cookies make wonderful homemade gifts during the holidays or any special occasion. Just wrap them nicely!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful Peppermint Oreo Cookies! They’re truly a special treat that brings holiday cheer and warmth into every bite. Whether you’re sharing them with friends at a cookie exchange or enjoying them at home, I’m sure they’ll become a favorite. Happy baking, and I can’t wait for you to try this recipe!