**Prep time:** 10 minutes
**Cook time:** 12-15 minutes
**Total time:** 22-25 minutes
**Servings:** 24 cookies
Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies are a festive treat that can elevate any holiday gathering or cozy evening at home. If you’re looking for a cookie that combines the convenience of cake mix with the delightful flavor of peppermint, you are in for a real treat! These cookies boast a soft, chewy texture, a sweet peppermint aroma, and a beautiful burst of color thanks to the festive decorations. Whether you’re a busy parent trying to whip up a batch for your child’s school event or a beginner eager to impress your friends, these cookies are both straightforward and versatile.
Imagine biting into a cookie that melts in your mouth while sending a cool, refreshing burst of peppermint flavor dancing across your taste buds. Drizzled with white chocolate or dusted with powdered sugar, they not only taste delicious but look stunning on any platter. Plus, they take little time to prepare, making it easy for you to enjoy the baking process without the stress!
In this article, you’ll learn how to whip up these delightful Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies step-by-step, discover useful tips for baking success, explore variations to make the recipe your own, and find answers to frequently asked questions along the way. Let’s dive into this easy and delightful cookie recipe that is sure to become a holiday favorite!
What Is Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies?
Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies are delightful treats that fuse traditional cookie-making methods with the accessibility and convenience of pre-packaged cake mix. Originating as a clever way to speed up the baking process, cake mix cookies transform the classic cookie experience into something fun and fast. Instead of meticulously measuring out flour, sugar, and baking soda, you can rely on the cake mix as the foundation, which takes most of the guesswork out of the equation.
These cookies typically feature a soft, chewy texture that is lighter and less dense than traditional cookies. The addition of peppermint extract or crushed peppermint candies imparts a delightful flavor making them perfect for the winter season or any festive occasion. They can be adorned with white chocolate drizzles, colorful sprinkles, or simply dusted with powdered sugar to enhance their look and taste.
The festive combination of peppermint and cake mix allows these cookies to evoke holiday cheer while activating the nostalgic aromas of the season. Whether served alongside a warm cup of cocoa or enjoyed as a midday snack, Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies are sure to please everyone from kids to adults.
Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies
There are numerous reasons to adore Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies! First and foremost, **they are incredibly easy to make**. All you need is a box of cake mix, a few simple ingredients, and you can have a batch of cookies ready to go in less than 30 minutes. This makes them perfect for last-minute baking needs, especially during the hectic holiday season.
Furthermore, these cookies are versatile. You can easily customize them by adjusting the extract levels or adding mix-ins such as chocolate chips, nuts, or candy canes. This allows you to create unique variations that suit any flavor preference. They also freeze well, making it easy to have a stash ready for surprise guests or gatherings.
On top of all this, the cookies often evoke warm memories of holiday cheer for many home bakers. Peppermint flavor recalls cozy family gatherings, festive parties, and a sense of nostalgia that brings everyone together. By simply following this recipe, you can recreate those treasured moments in your own kitchen and share them with loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To get started on your Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
– **1 box of white or vanilla cake mix**: This serves as the primary base of the cookies and provides sweetness and structure. You can choose a brand that you prefer or one that’s gluten-free if desired.
– **2 large eggs**: These offer moisture and binding qualities to hold the cookies together while also adding richness.
– **1/3 cup vegetable oil**: This ingredient adds moisture and ensures your cookies are chewy and flavorful. You can also substitute it with melted coconut oil for a unique flavor.
– **1 teaspoon peppermint extract**: This extract is essential for infusing the peppermint flavor into the cookies. Adjust the amount based on your preference for minty freshness, but remember that too much can overpower the other flavors.
– **1 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes**: These add a delightful crunch and festive look while enhancing the peppermint flavor profile. You can find them pre-crushed or easily crush them yourself in a bag using a rolling pin.
– **Optional toppings and mix-ins**: Consider adding chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or a drizzle of melted white chocolate for an added touch of sweetness.
This simple list keeps the recipe approachable while ensuring each element contributes significantly to the overall flavor and texture of the cookies.
How to Make Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making these scrumptious Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies!
1. **Preheat your oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial to ensure your cookies bake evenly. Grease or line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. **Mix the cake mix**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the box of cake mix, eggs, and vegetable oil. Use a spatula or a hand mixer on low speed to blend everything together until you achieve a smooth and thick dough. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies.
3. **Incorporate peppermint**: Once the dough is well combined, add the peppermint extract and crushed peppermint candies or candy canes. Gently fold them into the mixture, ensuring an even distribution throughout the cookie dough. The vibrant flecks of peppermint will instantly make the dough look festive!
4. **Scoop the dough**: Using a cookie scoop or two tablespoons, portion out the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking.
5. **Bake the cookies**: Place the baking sheets in your preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes or until the edges are just starting to get golden brown. Be mindful not to overbake, as the cookies will continue to firm up a bit as they cool.
6. **Cool completely**: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps maintain the soft and chewy texture.
7. **Decorate (optional)**: If you’d like to take your cookies to the next level, melt some white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and drizzle it over the cooled cookies. You can also sprinkle extra crushed peppermint on top for an added crunch and festive look.
And just like that, your Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies are ready to enjoy! They can be devoured immediately or stored for later, but I can assure you—they won’t last long!
5 Variations & Substitutions
For those looking to switch things up, here are five variations and substitutions you can try with your Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies:
1. **Chocolate Peppermint Swirl**: To create a chocolate version of your peppermint cookies, substitute a chocolate cake mix for the white or vanilla mix. This creates a delightful contrast between the fresh peppermint flavor and rich chocolate. For additional chocolate flavor, include chocolate chips or a chocolate drizzle on top.
2. **Gluten-Free Option**: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, simply use a gluten-free cake mix in place of the traditional one. Many brands offer excellent gluten-free cake mixes that perform beautifully in cookie recipes, making it easy to enjoy these treats without gluten.
3. **Peppermint Mocha Cookies**: For a coffee twist, you can mix in a tablespoon of instant coffee granules into the cookie dough along with the other ingredients. It gives a mocha flavor that pairs wonderfully with peppermint. You could even top these with a hint of espresso icing for an extra kick!
4. **Fudge-Filled Cookies**: For an ultra-decadent treat, create a small thumbprint in the center of each cookie before baking and fill it with fudge or chocolate ganache. The gooey center adds an indulgent touch that elevates your cookies.
5. **Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies**: Instead of using crushed peppermint candies, mix in mint-flavored chocolate chips or regular semi-sweet chocolate chips. This gives you a classic mint chocolate chip flavor that feels refreshing with every bite.
Feel free to mix and match these variations based on your preferences or dietary needs!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While making Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies is quite straightforward, there are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
– **Overmixing the dough**: When you combine the ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to dense and chewy cookies instead of the soft and fluffy texture we desire. Once the ingredients are combined, stop mixing.
– **Incorrect oven temperature**: Always preheat your oven to the correct temperature. If your oven runs hot or cold, this can adversely affect baking times and result in cookies that are undercooked or overcooked. Investing in an oven thermometer can help ensure that your oven is at the proper temperature.
– **Not using parchment paper**: Skipping the parchment paper may lead to cookies that stick to the baking sheet. Greasing the pan can help, but parchment paper guarantees easy removal and uniform browning.
– **Underbaking or overbaking**: Keep an eye on your cookies while they’re in the oven. Cookies should be removed when the edges start to turn golden brown while the centers look soft and slightly underbaked. They’ll continue to firm up outside of the oven!
– **Ignoring cooling time**: Allowing the cookies to cool on the baking sheets allows them to set properly. If you move them too soon, they may fall apart. Patience is key for achieving the desired texture.
By keeping these common mistakes in mind, you can enhance your cookie-baking skills and ensure every batch of Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies is a delicious success.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
Proper storage of your Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies ensures they remain fresh and delicious. Here are some helpful tips on storage, freezing, and reheating:
– **Storage**: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. These cookies are best enjoyed within 3-5 days, but they will remain tasty for up to a week. If you live in a warm climate, consider refrigerating them to prevent any melting of toppings or added ingredients.
– **Freezing**: If you want to prepare your cookies ahead of time, they freeze beautifully! Place baked and cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours, until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper, for up to three months.
– **Reheating**: To enjoy your cookies warm, reheat single cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes. This will enhance the flavors and give the cookies a nice, fresh-baked warmth.
Following these storage and freezing tips will help you enjoy your Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies long after they are baked—if they last that long!
Frequently Asked Questions
**1. Can I use a different cake mix flavor?**
Absolutely! While white or vanilla cake mixes are the traditional choice for Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies, you can experiment with flavors like chocolate or red velvet to create interesting variations. Just be mindful that flavors may slightly change the overall experience of the cookie, particularly when paired with peppermint.
**2. How can I make these cookies less sweet?**
If you find cake mix cookies to be overly sweet, consider using only half the amount of peppermint candies or candy canes. Alternatively, you could substitute a sugar-free cake mix. Keep in mind that reducing sweetness may also reduce the overall flavor, so feel free to adjust other elements like peppermint extract to compensate.
**3. Can I omit the peppermint?**
While peppermint is a key ingredient in this recipe, you can certainly omit it if you prefer plain cookies. You can also substitute it with vanilla extract or find another extract like almond or coconut for a different flavor profile. Just bear in mind that the texture and overall experience will change!
**4. Can these cookies be made in advance for an event?**
Yes! You can make the dough in advance, scoop the cookies onto a baking sheet, and freeze them until you’re ready to bake. This way, you can pull them out and bake a fresh batch on the day of your event without the hassle.
**5. What can I use instead of eggs for a vegan version?**
If you’re looking to make this recipe vegan-friendly, you can substitute the two eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and allowed to sit for 10 minutes) or 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce. Both options will help bind the cookies while keeping them moist!
In conclusion, Peppermint Cake Mix Cookies are the ultimate festive treat. With their delightful flavor, easy preparation, and endless possibilities for customizations, you can create something truly special for your family and friends. Whether you’re gathering around a warm fire during the chilly months or hosting a cookie exchange, these cookies are bound to be a hit.
I encourage you to try this delightful recipe, feel free to personalize it as you wish, and don’t hold back on sharing the joy of these delicious cookies with others. Happy baking!
