Can I make these cookies without peppermint extract?

While peppermint extract creates the signature mint flavor, you can substitute with mint extract or even finely crushed mint candies. Start with less and taste the dough, adjusting as needed.

Why are my cookies too soft or too crispy?

Soft cookies often need an extra minute of baking time, while crispy cookies were likely overbaked. Oven temperatures vary, so watch for visual cues: edges should be set but centers slightly underdone when removed.

How do I prevent green food coloring from being too intense?

Add food coloring drop by drop, mixing between additions. Remember that the color will lighten slightly during baking, so aim for a shade slightly darker than your desired final result.

Can I double this recipe successfully?

Absolutely! This recipe doubles beautifully. Just ensure you have enough mixing bowl space and consider baking in smaller batches to maintain consistent results.

What's the best way to measure flour for consistent results?

Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level with a knife. Don't pack it down or scoop directly from the container, as this can add too much flour and create dense cookies.

How can I tell when the cookies are perfectly done?

Look for edges that are set and lightly golden, while centers appear slightly underdone. They should not look wet, but shouldn't be completely firm either. The residual heat will finish the cooking process.

Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe: Easy Homemade Treats

Description

Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies are soft, refreshing treats filled with cool mint flavor and rich chocolate chips in every delicious bite.

Ingredients

Scale

2¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
¾ cup packed brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon peppermint extract

The Chocolate Magic

2 cups mini chocolate chips
3–4 drops green food coloring (optional, for that classic mint green color)

Smart Substitutions for Every Diet

Gluten-free option: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend
Dairy-free alternative: Swap butter for vegan butter substitute and use dairy-free chocolate chips
Vegan-friendly: Use flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water) instead of regular eggs
Reduced sugar: Cut each sugar measurement to ½ cup for a less sweet version

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Instructions

Prep
Preheat oven to 375°F. Line baking sheets with parchment. Whisk flour, baking soda, and salt.
Mix Dough
Cream butter and sugars until fluffy. Beat in eggs, vanilla, peppermint extract, and food coloring if using.
Combine
Mix in dry ingredients just until combined. Fold in chocolate chips.
Bake
Scoop dough onto baking sheets. Bake 9–11 minutes until edges are set.
Cool
Cool 5 minutes on the pan, then transfer to a rack.

Prep Time: 15m
Cook Time: 9m
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Calories: 140 calories
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g