**Prep time:** 10 minutes
**Cook time:** 10-12 minutes
**Total time:** 22 minutes
**Servings:** 24 cookies
What’s more delightful than cookies? How about Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies that encapsulate the essence of the holiday season in every bite? If you’re like me, the moment you think of peppermint, you’re transported to cozy evenings spent with loved ones, a cup of hot cocoa in hand, and the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the air. These cookies not only invoke that warm, festive feeling but are also incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and time.
In this article, you’ll discover the secrets behind creating perfect Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies from scratch. From selecting the right ingredients to tips for baking and storage, you will feel confident in bringing this joyful treat to your kitchen. Plus, I will share variations and substitutions so that you can customize these beautiful cookies just the way you like!
What Are Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies?
Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies are an effortless and delightful treat, combining the convenience of cake mix with the festive flavor of peppermint. By using a box of cake mix as a base, these cookies come together quickly, ideal for busy individuals or families looking to whip up something delicious without a lot of preparation time. If you’ve ever had peppermint dessert that had a whimsical, candy-like taste, that’s precisely the flavor profile you’ll find here.
The texture of Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies is soft, chewy, and pillowy—like taking a bite of fluffy cloud. Each cookie boasts a stunning white hue, speckled with bits of crushed peppermint candy canes or peppermint extract, while the scent of mint fills your kitchen. They can be finished off with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate for that extra flair, making them not only delicious but visually appealing as well.
These cookies originated from the traditional cake mix cookie phenomenon, which gained popularity in the U.S. for their simplicity and versatility. You can enjoy these cookies as they are for a lovely dessert, or serve them at parties, holiday gatherings, or even bake sale events.
Why You’ll Love These Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies
There are countless reasons to love Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies, and one of the most significant is their sheer *ease of preparation*. With just a few ingredients, you can have a batch ready in no time, making this recipe accessible for everyone, even beginner bakers or busy parents juggling multiple responsibilities.
### Benefits:
– **Quick and Easy**: The use of cake mix drastically cuts down prep time and effort. No need to measure out flour, sugar, or baking soda—all those essential dry ingredients are already expertly mixed for you!
– **Delicious Flavor**: Peppermint cake mix gives your cookies that festive flavor, perfect for the holiday season. The combination of mint and chocolate or vanilla creates an invigorating taste experience that’s hard to resist.
– **Versatile**: Not only can you swap out ingredients in this recipe to suit your dietary needs or preferences, but you can also use these cookies as a base for experimentation, adding your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit.
– **Cost-Effective**: Utilizing cake mix helps keep ingredient costs low, making your treats budget-friendly while not compromising on flavor.
– **Fun for Everyone**: Baking these cookies is a fantastic way to engage family and friends in the kitchen. Kids especially enjoy helping to mix and decorate!
There are a few misconceptions surrounding cake mix cookies, like they lack flavor or complexity; however, this couldn’t be further from the truth! The addition of peppermint makes them vibrant and tasty, proving you can create gourmet-tasting treats with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
– **1 box of peppermint cake mix**: This is the base of your cookies and provides that quintessential peppermint flavor. You can choose chocolate or vanilla cake mix, depending on your preference.
– **2 large eggs**: Eggs provide binding and structure to your cookies, ensuring they hold their shape while baking.
– **1/3 cup of vegetable oil**: This adds moisture and softness to the texture. You can substitute it with melted coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce for a healthier option.
– **1 cup of crushed peppermint candy canes**: This ingredient takes your cookies to a new level with its crunchy texture and burst of mint flavor. If you don’t have candy canes, you can use peppermint extract (about 1 teaspoon) for a more subtle flavor.
– **1/2 cup of chocolate chips or white chocolate chips (optional)**: For an additional flavor component, you can mix in some chocolate or white chocolate chips. They add sweetness and creaminess, creating a marvelous combination with the peppermint.
How to Make Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into how to create these scrumptious Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies. Follow these step-by-step instructions:
1. **Preheat Your Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. This is an essential step, as it ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that delightful golden-brown color. Also, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. **Mix the Wet Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the **cake mix, eggs, and vegetable oil**. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on low-speed to blend the ingredients until combined. Don’t worry if the dough seems a bit thick at this stage; this is what you want!
3. **Add Peppermint Candy**: Next, fold in the **crushed peppermint candy canes**. If you are using peppermint extract instead, carefully mix it into the dough at this point. Taste the dough and adjust the sweetness or peppermint flavor as desired.
4. **Incorporate Chocolate Chips**: If you choose to add chocolate or white chocolate chips, fold them into the dough gently until evenly distributed. This step is optional but highly recommended if you love the contrast of flavors.
5. **Scoop the Dough**: Using a medium-sized cookie scoop or two tablespoons, drop rounded balls of cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Leave sufficient space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking.
6. **Bake the Cookies**: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately **10-12 minutes** or until the edges are lightly golden. This is key; underbaking slightly will result in soft, chewy cookies, while overbaking might lead to dry cookies.
7. **Cool and Serve**: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about **5 minutes** before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help retain their soft texture.
8. **Optional Decoration**: Once cooled, feel free to sprinkle additional crushed candy canes or powdered sugar for a festive touch!
5 Variations & Substitutions
Your Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies can be easily modified to fit various preferences, occasions, or dietary restrictions. Here are some fun variations and substitutions:
### 1. **Chocolate Peppermint Cookies**
If you’re a chocolate lover, consider using **chocolate cake mix** instead of vanilla or peppermint. This will create a rich, chocolatey flavor profile combined with the refreshing peppermint. Just like before, add crushed peppermint candies for that added crunch.
### 2. **Gluten-Free Option**
To make your cookies gluten-free, choose a gluten-free cake mix instead. Many brands create delicious gluten-free cake mixes that work perfectly in this recipe. Just remember to check the label for any additional ingredients needed!
### 3. **Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies**
If the combination of mint and chocolate excites you, add **1 cup of mint chocolate chips** instead of regular chocolate or white chocolate chips. This will reinforce the minty flavor while amplifying the chocolate component, yielding a delightful indulgence.
### 4. **Cream Cheese Frosted Cookies**
Another decadent twist is to frost your cookies with **cream cheese frosting**. Just whip up some cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, then generously frost the tops of your cooled cookies for a delicious treat that’s sure to impress.
### 5. **Dairy-Free Version**
If you follow a dairy-free diet, opt for **dairy-free chocolate chips** to mix in if you wish to add chocolate. The rest of the ingredients are naturally dairy-free, so your cookies will stay compliant without sacrificing deliciousness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making cookies can sometimes lead to *missteps*, especially when you’re trying something new. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies:
– **Not Measuring Ingredients Properly**: While using a cake mix simplifies the process, it’s essential to use the correct measurements for eggs and oil. Using too much oil can lead to greasy cookies, while too few can make them dry. Always follow the recommended amounts for the best results.
– **Overmixing the Dough**: When combining your ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can break down the delicate structure needed for rosy, soft cookies. Mix until you no longer see dry ingredients to avoid tough cookies.
– **Not Preheating the Oven**: It’s easy to skip preheating the oven, but this step is crucial for even baking. If the oven isn’t hot enough, the cookies will spread too much and not rise. Always preheat for the best texture and appearance.
– **Baking Too Long**: Cookies can go from perfect to overbaked quickly, so keep an eye on them during the last few minutes. Remove them when the edges look lightly golden, and let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes afterward.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
Once you’ve baked your Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies, you’ll want to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Here are some storage and reheat tips:
– **Storage**: Place cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for **up to one week**. Be careful not to stack them if they have any icing or topping to avoid sticking.
– **Freezing**: To freeze your cookies, allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once they are frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for **up to three months**.
– **Reheating**: To reheat cookies, preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)** and place the cookies on a baking sheet. Heat for about **5-7 minutes** until warmed through but not too hot, as this can cause the cookies to become dry.
– **Avoiding Moisture**: If you are in a humid environment, adding a slice of bread to your container can help absorb moisture and keep the cookies fresh longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
### 1. Can I use any flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! While peppermint cake mix is ideal, you can experiment with other flavors like chocolate or vanilla. Just be mindful of how the flavor pairing with peppermint will affect the final taste. Each flavor will give your cookies a unique twist.
### 2. How can I make these cookies more festive for a party?
You can enhance your cookies’ visual appeal by drizzling melted white chocolate on top or generously dusting them with powdered sugar. Also, consider the addition of colorful sprinkles or more crushed candy canes to give them a holiday cheer feel.
### 3. What should I do if my cookie dough is too dry?
If your dough appears dry, try adding a tablespoon of vegetable oil or milk to the mixture to achieve the desired consistency. Remember, cookie dough should be moist and slightly sticky but still manageable for scooping.
### 4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and store it in the refrigerator for up to **24 hours** before baking. Allow it to come to room temperature before scooping and baking. This trick is ideal for preparing for gatherings or keeping kids entertained.
### 5. Is there a vegan version of these cookies?
Absolutely! For a vegan option, swap the eggs for **flaxseed meal** (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg) and use a vegetable oil blend or coconut oil in place of regular oil. Be sure to select vegan-friendly chocolate chips as well.
In conclusion, Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies are not just cookies; they reflect joyful moments, shared laughter, and the warmth of togetherness. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday party or simply enjoying a sweet treat at home, this recipe will be a cherished addition to your kitchen roster. I encourage you to experiment with the variations, share this recipe with friends, and revel in the delightful flavors of your homemade cookies. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and let’s bake some magic!
