**Prep time:** 10 minutes
**Cook time:** 8-10 minutes
**Total time:** 20 minutes
**Servings:** 24 cookies
Nothing brings the holiday spirit into a kitchen quite like the smell of baking cookies, and if you’re searching for that perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your family and friends, look no further than these delightful Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies. With their vibrant pink color and festive peppermint flavor, these cookies aren’t just visually appealing; they’re incredibly easy to make, blending the rich allure of cake mix convenience with the refreshing taste of peppermint.
In this article, you’ll learn how to create these tasty treats with just a few ingredients. From step-by-step instructions to valuable tips and variations, you’ll find everything you need to whip up a batch of these cookies that are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie swaps, or simply indulging at home. Plus, the delightful crunch of crushed peppermint and the sweetness of chocolate chips make these cookies a truly festive experience!
What Are Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies?
Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional cookies that utilize a standard box of cake mix as the base. Originating in the realm of convenience baking, this recipe combines key ingredients like **cake mix**, **eggs**, **oil**, and **peppermint extract** to create a cookie that’s soft and chewy on the inside with a slight crispness on the outside. The addition of crushed peppermint candies or candy canes elevates these cookies, providing bursts of minty flavor, while semi-sweet chocolate chips add richness and depth.
The texture of these cookies is similar to that of soft-baked cookies, making them a delightful treat for anyone who loves cookies that practically melt in your mouth. Moreover, the vibrant pink color from the peppermint (if you choose to add food coloring) adds a festive flair, making these cookies a delightful addition to any holiday cookie platter. The fast preparation time ensures that even busy home bakers or beginners can whip up a batch with minimal fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies
There are countless reasons to fall in love with these Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies! Firstly, they are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for beginners in the kitchen or even busy parents looking for a quick sweet treat to please the family. The use of cake mix cuts down on prep time, allowing you to mix the ingredients and scoop the dough within minutes.
In terms of cost, purchasing a box of cake mix is often more economical than buying all the individual ingredients for traditional cookie recipes, adding even more appeal for those on a budget. The glorious peppermint flavor from the extracts and crushed candies make these cookies uniquely festive and a refreshing break from heavier desserts. Furthermore, they’re incredibly versatile and can be customized with various mix-ins such as nuts, white chocolate chips, or other holiday-themed candies.
Common misconceptions about cake mix cookies claim that they won’t taste as good as homemade cookies made from scratch, but rest assured, these cookies hold their own in terms of flavor and texture! You’ll find that the combination of peppermint and chocolate creates a perfect balance, keeping your taste buds dancing with delight throughout the holidays.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies, you’ll need a handful of ingredients which you might already have in your pantry:
– **1 box of cake mix (any flavor, though red velvet or vanilla works best for a festive look)**
The star of the show, cake mix provides the perfect foundation for these cookies. It’s pre-measured and balanced, cutting down on prep time. If you prefer, you can select a gluten-free version to cater to your dietary needs.
– **2 large eggs**
Eggs act as a binder in the cookie dough, providing structure and moisture. They also help achieve that soft, chewy texture that is characteristic of cake mix cookies. You can use an egg substitute like flaxseed meal or applesauce for a vegan version.
– **1/2 cup vegetable oil**
Vegetable oil keeps the cookies moist and rich, while also contributing to that delightful chewy exterior. For a healthier option, you could substitute it with unsweetened applesauce or coconut oil.
– **1 tsp peppermint extract**
This extract infuses the cookies with a refreshing mint flavor. If you want a stronger peppermint kick, feel free to adjust the amount to your liking.
– **1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes**
Not only do these candies impart a delightful crunch, but they also elevate the peppermint flavor profile. Crushing them ensures that every bite has just the right amount of festivity.
– **1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips**
Chocolate chips add a wonderful sweetness and create a delightful contrast to the refreshing peppermint. Feel free to use white chocolate chips for a different flavor experience or to match a holiday color theme.
– **Optional: Red or green food coloring**
This is optional but can add a festive tint to your cookies if desired. Simply add a few drops to the dough while mixing.
How to Make Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies
Here’s a detailed guide on how to create these scrumptious Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies right in your kitchen. Follow each step for the best results:
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is important because it helps your cookies bake evenly and achieve the right texture — soft and chewy in the center with slightly crisp edges.
2. **Prepare the Baking Sheets:** Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes for hassle-free cleaning afterward. If you don’t have either, you can counter the stickiness by lightly greasing the baking sheets.
3. **Mix the Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and peppermint extract using a wooden spoon or electric mixer. Start by mixing at a low speed to avoid flour flying everywhere, then increase the speed until the mixture is well combined. You should notice a thick, dough-like consistency forming as you mix.
4. **Fold in the Mix-ins:** Once your dough is perfectly blended, gently fold in the crushed peppermint candies and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Use a spatula to ensure that these goodies are evenly distributed throughout the dough, which will give you bites of chocolate and peppermint in every cookie.
5. **Scoop the Dough:** Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. This spacing gives the cookies room to spread as they bake.
6. **Optional: Add a Splash of Color:** If you’ve chosen to include food coloring, now is the time to add a few drops to your cookie dough. Gently fold the color into the dough, being careful not to overmix. Aim for a nice even hue without making the dough too streaky.
7. **Bake the Cookies:** Place the baking sheets in your preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep in mind that cookies will continue to bake slightly after being removed from the oven, so it’s better to take them out when they’re still a bit soft in the center.
8. **Cool and Enjoy:** Allow the cookies to sit on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes to cool slightly before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. The cooling time allows the cookies to firm up while maintaining their chewy texture. Now you can take a moment to appreciate the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen!
5 Variations & Substitutions
While the classic Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies are a delightful treat, you can easily switch things up with these variations and substitutions:
1. **Chocolate Mint Cake Mix Cookies:**
Swap out the regular cake mix for a chocolate cake mix. The chocolate and peppermint combination creates a deliciously rich and decadent dessert. You might want to substitute white chocolate chips in this version for a beautiful contrast against the chocolate base.
2. **Nutty Peppermint Cookies:**
Add a half-cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the cookie dough for added texture and flavor. The nuts highlight the peppermint beautifully while providing a satisfying crunch. Ensure to chop the nuts finely, so they blend well into the dough without being a distraction.
3. **Vegan Peppermint Cookies:**
Use a vegan cake mix, substitute the eggs with ground flaxseed (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water equals one egg), and replace the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce. This variation forms a delicious cookie that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions.
4. **White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies:**
Replace the semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a sweeter and creamier flavor. White chocolate and peppermint are a match made in heaven! If you want to add an extra nice touch, drizzle melted white chocolate on top of the cooled cookies for a gorgeous finish.
5. **Peppermint Mocha Cookies:**
Incorporate 2 tablespoons of espresso powder or finely ground coffee into the dough for a rich, mocha flavor that pairs beautifully with the peppermint. This variation is perfect for coffee lovers looking to satisfy their sweet cravings with a delightful twist!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
There are a few common pitfalls to watch out for when making Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies. Even though this recipe is easy to prepare, here are some tips to ensure you avoid any mishaps:
– **Not Measuring the Ingredients:** Ensure you’re accurately measuring out your cake mix, eggs, and liquids. Adding too much or too little cake mix can lead to dry or overly wet cookies. Use dry measuring cups for the cake mix and liquid measuring cups for the oil or any liquids to avoid confusion.
– **Overmixing the Dough:** While it’s tempting to mix the dough until utterly smooth, be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can create dense cookies instead of the soft, chewy texture you’re after. Mix just until everything is combined, and then gently fold in any additional ingredients.
– **Baking at the Wrong Temperature:** Every oven is different. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before loading your cookies. If you suspect your oven runs hot, consider reducing the temperature by 25°F to avoid burning the cookies. Using an oven thermometer can help you check for accuracy.
– **Skipping the Cooling Time:** Allowing the cookies to cool on the tray for a few minutes is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. If you try to move them too quickly, they might crumble or fall apart. Be patient and let them rest for the recommended time before transferring them to a cooling rack.
– **Storing Incorrectly:** Improper storage can ruin the deliciousness of your cookies. Make sure to store Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about a week. If you plan on freezing them, allow them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or using a freezer-safe bag.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and flavor of your Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies. Here is a detailed guide:
– **Storing at Room Temperature:** These cookies can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to one week. This keeps them soft and chewy, preserving the delightful texture that you love. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers if you stack them to prevent sticking.
– **Freezing Cookies:** If you’d like to save some for later or bake a batch in advance, Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies can be frozen. Once completely cooled, place them in a sealed freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To thaw, simply place them in the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for about an hour before enjoying.
– **Reheating:** If you prefer warm cookies, reheat the frozen cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat as this can make the cookies tough. Alternatively, you can place thawed cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
Keeping these tips in mind will ensure that your cookies remain delicious no matter when you choose to enjoy them!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. **Can I use any flavor of cake mix for these cookies?**
Absolutely! While vanilla and red velvet cake mixes are popular choices for Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies, you can use any flavor you like. Chocolate cake mix produces a rich and decadent cookie, while lemon cake mix can lend a delightful citrus twist. The key is to choose a flavor that complements the peppermint essence.
2. **What can I do with leftover crushed peppermint candies?**
Great question! Leftover crushed peppermint can be used in various desserts and treats, such as topping for hot chocolate, as an ingredient in peppermint bark, or sprinkled over brownies for some extra crunch. You can also store any excess peppermint in an airtight container for your next baking project.
3. **How do I know when my cookies are done baking?**
To check if your cookies are done, look for lightly golden edges and a firm appearance. They should still look slightly soft in the center as they will firm up while cooling. If you are unsure, you can always perform a “test cookie” to check cooking time!
4. **Can I use egg substitutes in this recipe?**
Yes! If you prefer to avoid eggs, you can use one of several substitutes: 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water (let it sit for a few minutes to thicken), 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, or 1/4 cup of silken tofu blended until smooth works wonderfully for this recipe.
5. **Can these cookies be made in advance for a party?**
Definitely! These Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies are perfect for making ahead of time. You can either bake them in advance and freeze them or prepare the dough, scoop it into balls, and freeze them until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few minutes to the baking time if baking from frozen!
In conclusion, Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies are an exceptionally easy and flavorful treat that can brighten your holiday season or serve as an everyday indulgence. Their delightful balance of sweetness, freshness, and creaminess makes them irresistible, ensuring they will be a hit among family and friends alike. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and bake a batch! Don’t forget to share your delicious results or make a substitution to personalize the recipe for your taste. Happy baking!
[Read also: Easy Dessert Recipes for Beginners]
