Mint Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe: A Refreshing Twist on a Classic Favorite
Mint chocolate chip cookies combine the delightful flavors of cool mint and rich chocolate chips into a scrumptious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a fan of traditional chocolate chip cookies or you’re looking to try something new, this mint chocolate chip cookie recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Follow these simple steps to create cookies that are crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside, and bursting with refreshing mint flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chopped mint chocolate or Andes mint chips (optional for extra minty flavor)
- Green food coloring (optional for a vibrant green color)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter texture for your cookies.
- Add the Eggs and Extracts: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, add the vanilla extract and peppermint extract, mixing until well combined. The combination of vanilla and peppermint extracts provides a balanced mint flavor that complements the chocolate chips perfectly.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
- Fold in the Chocolate: Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped mint chocolate or Andes mint chips if using. If desired, add a few drops of green food coloring to give your cookies a vibrant green hue, reminiscent of classic mint desserts.
- Scoop and Bake: Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may still appear slightly underbaked, but they will continue to cook as they cool on the baking sheet.
- Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
Tips for Perfect Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies:
- For an extra burst of mint flavor, consider adding a touch more peppermint extract or using Andes mint chips in addition to regular chocolate chips.
- If you prefer softer cookies, reduce the baking time by a minute or two, keeping a close eye on them to prevent overbaking.
- Experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as dark chocolate or white chocolate, to customize the flavor profile of your cookies.
In conclusion, this mint chocolate chip cookie recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic chocolate chip cookie, incorporating the refreshing taste of mint for a truly memorable treat. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a delicious homemade cookie, these mint chocolate chip cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy them with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate indulgence.