The scent of peppermint always takes me straight back to my grandmother’s kitchen, especially around the holidays. Her house would fill with the comforting aroma of baking, a symphony of vanilla, sugar, and that unmistakable cool, festive mint. It was pure magic, and the kind of warmth I always try to recreate in my own home.
One year, she surprised us with a new creation, something unlike any cookie we’d tasted before. These weren’t just simple sugar cookies; they were these incredibly soft, melt-in-your-mouth peppermint cheesecake cookies with a delightful tang. Every bite was a revelation, perfectly capturing the spirit of the season.
That memory has stayed with me, inspiring me to perfect my own version of these festive treats. They quickly became a staple in my holiday baking repertoire, a delightful twist that stands out from the usual fare. If you’re looking for a dessert that marries comfort with a touch of elegance, you absolutely must try my strawberry cheesecake wontons; they’re a similar delicious fusion of flavors and textures.
These sparkling peppermint cheesecake cookies are more than just a recipe; they are a tradition in the making. They embody the joy of sharing something truly special, a little sparkle for your festive table. Get ready to bake some holiday happiness!
Why you’ll love this Sparkling Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies
- These cookies offer an irresistible combination of chewy cookie edges and a tender, creamy cheesecake-like center. It’s a texture sensation you won’t forget.
- The cool burst of peppermint flavor is perfectly balanced by the subtle tang of cream cheese, creating a sophisticated holiday taste. They’re not just sweet; they’re wonderfully complex.
- Adorned with crushed candy canes, these sparkling peppermint cheesecake cookies are visually stunning and incredibly festive, making them a showstopper for any holiday gathering or cookie exchange.
- Despite their gourmet appeal, the recipe is straightforward and accessible for bakers of all skill levels. You’ll be amazed at how easily these come together.
- They’re incredibly versatile, perfect for gifting, serving at parties, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa. Everyone will be asking for the recipe.
- The delightful aroma alone will fill your home with holiday cheer, making the baking process as enjoyable as eating these fantastic cookies.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 ounces (½ block) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies, plus extra for topping (about 8-10 regular candy canes)
- Optional: 4 ounces white chocolate, melted, for drizzling
Directions
Step 1
Peppermint cheesecake cookies makes every moment feel indulgent. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Make sure these dry ingredients are thoroughly combined to ensure an even bake.
Step 2
In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened unsalted butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect creamy texture in your peppermint cheesecake cookies.
Gradually add the granulated sugar to the butter and cream cheese mixture and beat until well combined and fluffy. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is incorporated.
Step 3
Beat in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until just combined. Avoid overmixing at this stage to keep the cookies tender.
Step 4
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined and a soft dough forms. It’s important to be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 5
Gently fold in ½ cup of the crushed peppermint candies into the dough until evenly distributed. This ensures every bite of your peppermint cheesecake cookies has that festive crunch and flavor.
Step 6
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours. This step is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much and helps develop the flavors.
Step 7
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Step 8
Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough and roll them into smooth balls. Consistency in size helps them bake evenly.
Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet, giving them enough room to spread slightly. Gently flatten each cookie dough ball slightly with the palm of your hand.
Step 9
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are just set. The cookies will look slightly puffy when they come out of the oven.
It is vital not to overbake these delicate peppermint cheesecake cookies, as they will continue to set as they cool. A slightly soft center is desirable.
Step 10
Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking.
While still warm, you can gently press a few extra crushed peppermint candies onto the tops for extra festive sparkle and a beautiful finish. This adds to the visual appeal of these delightful peppermint cheesecake cookies.
Step 11
Once completely cooled, if desired, melt the white chocolate according to package directions. Drizzle over the cookies in a decorative pattern.
Immediately sprinkle with additional crushed peppermint candies before the chocolate sets. This creates a stunning, professional-looking finish that elevates these sparkling peppermint cheesecake cookies.
Variations, pairings, and serving ideas
Variations
While these sparkling peppermint cheesecake cookies are perfect as is, there are many fun ways to personalize them. Consider adding a different type of chocolate for a new flavor dimension. Dark chocolate chips, for instance, could be folded into the dough alongside the peppermint candies.
For an even richer experience, try drizzling them with melted dark chocolate instead of white chocolate. The slight bitterness of dark chocolate beautifully complements the sweet mint. This creates a striking visual contrast as well.
You could also experiment with other extracts, though peppermint is quintessential for the holidays. Almond extract or even a touch of orange zest could offer an interesting twist for a different occasion. Just be mindful not to overpower the delicate cream cheese flavor.
For a truly decadent treat, turn these into sandwich cookies! Fill them with a light cream cheese frosting or even a simple buttercream. This adds another layer of creaminess that enhances the cheesecake aspect.
Consider adding a touch of food coloring to the dough for a vibrant holiday hue. A few drops of red or green food gel could make these cookies even more festive and eye-catching. This is particularly fun for kids.
If you love the cheesecake element, explore other mini cheesecake ideas like these delightful mini lemon blueberry cheesecakes from Cook Reel, perfect for individual servings and another great way to enjoy that creamy texture.
Pairings
These peppermint cheesecake cookies are a dream alongside a warm, comforting beverage. A classic pairing is a steaming mug of hot cocoa, perhaps topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra crushed peppermint. The rich chocolate and cool mint are a match made in heaven.
For the coffee lovers, a festive peppermint latte or a simple black coffee would be a wonderful accompaniment. The coffee’s bitterness cuts through the cookies’ sweetness, creating a balanced experience. It’s an elevated coffee break.
Tea drinkers can enjoy these cookies with a robust black tea like Earl Grey or a soothing herbal peppermint tea. The subtle notes of the tea will complement the cookies without overwhelming their unique flavor. It’s a cozy combination.
During holiday gatherings, serve these alongside a festive punch or sparkling cider. The bubbles and fruit notes offer a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy cookie. It makes for an inviting dessert spread.
For a dessert platter, arrange your peppermint cheesecake cookies with other holiday treats like gingerbread snaps, sugar cookies, and chocolate truffles. This offers a variety of textures and flavors for guests to enjoy. They will truly stand out.
Consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold, creamy additions enhance the cheesecake texture and bring a refreshing element. It’s an extra layer of indulgence.
Serving ideas
Presentation is key to making these sparkling peppermint cheesecake cookies truly shine on your holiday table. Arrange them artfully on a festive platter, perhaps on a bed of faux snow or greenery. This instantly elevates their visual appeal.
If you’ve opted for the white chocolate drizzle, make sure it’s done neatly and consistently for a professional look. A zig-zag pattern or a few straight lines across the top can be very effective. This adds an elegant touch.
For gift-giving, package these cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons. A small handwritten tag with the recipe name adds a personal touch. They make thoughtful, homemade gifts.
Create a cookie tower or pyramid for a stunning centerpiece at your holiday party. Stack them carefully, interspersing with small candy canes or sprigs of fresh mint. It’s a true showstopper.
Serve them alongside miniature shot glasses of milk or peppermint hot chocolate for a charming individual serving. This makes for a delightful and interactive dessert experience. Guests will love the thoughtful presentation.
For a children’s party, arrange the cookies around a centerpiece bowl of extra crushed peppermint candies, allowing them to sprinkle more on top if they wish. This adds a fun, interactive element. Kids adore customizing their treats.
Storage and make-ahead tips
Storage
Once completely cooled, your sparkling peppermint cheesecake cookies should be stored in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and chewiness. This prevents them from drying out or becoming stale.
At room temperature, these delightful cookies will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3-4 days. Ensure they are kept away from direct sunlight or heat sources. A cool, dry pantry is ideal.
For extended freshness, you can store the peppermint cheesecake cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week. If drizzled with white chocolate, refrigeration helps keep the chocolate firm. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
These cookies also freeze exceptionally well, making them perfect for holiday meal prep. Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze for about an hour.
Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months without losing their quality. This is fantastic for planning ahead.
When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the frozen peppermint cheesecake cookies at room temperature for a few hours. This makes them convenient for unexpected guests or last-minute cravings. They taste just like freshly baked.
Make-ahead
The dough for these sparkling peppermint cheesecake cookies can be made in advance, which is a huge time-saver during busy holiday seasons. Prepare the dough up to step 5, before chilling.
Once the dough is mixed and the peppermint candies are folded in, cover it tightly with plastic wrap. You can then refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.
Alternatively, you can portion the dough into balls, flatten them slightly, and then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag.
Frozen dough balls can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply place them on a prepared baking sheet and add a few extra minutes to the baking time, without thawing first. This is incredibly convenient.
Having pre-made dough means you can have warm, freshly baked peppermint cheesecake cookies with minimal effort whenever the craving strikes. It’s perfect for last-minute entertaining or a cozy night in.
You can also bake the cookies entirely ahead of time and freeze them after they’ve completely cooled. This is ideal if you want to get all your holiday baking done in one go. Just thaw and enjoy.
Common mistakes when making Sparkling Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies
- **Overmixing the dough:** Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour too much, resulting in tough, dense cookies. Mix until just combined, as soon as a dough forms.
- **Not chilling the dough:** This step is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. Chilling helps the butter and cream cheese firm up, leading to thicker, chewier cookies.
- **Overbaking the cookies:** Peppermint cheesecake cookies are meant to be soft and chewy with slightly golden edges. Overbaking will make them dry and hard, losing their signature tenderness.
- **Not softening butter and cream cheese:** Using cold butter or cream cheese will result in a lumpy dough and an uneven texture in the final cookie. Ensure both are properly softened at room temperature for a smooth mixture.
- **Improperly crushing peppermint candies:** If the pieces are too large, they can be difficult to chew and might burn; if too fine, you lose some of the crunch. Aim for small, irregular pieces.
Final notes
These sparkling peppermint cheesecake cookies are truly a celebration in every bite, capturing the festive spirit with their cool minty flavor and delightful cream cheese tang. They are sure to bring joy and sparkle to your holiday season, whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself. The unique combination of flavors and textures makes them an unforgettable treat.
Don’t be intimidated by the “cheesecake” in the name; this recipe is surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. The chilling time is your secret weapon for perfect cookies that hold their shape and deliver on chewiness. Trust the process, and you’ll be rewarded with a batch of beautiful, delicious cookies.
So, gather your ingredients, put on some festive music, and let the aroma of baking fill your home. These peppermint cheesecake cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re an experience, a memory in the making, and a perfect way to share some homemade love. Enjoy every shimmering, minty bite!
Loved this Sparkling Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies? Try these next
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Sparkling Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies
Indulge in the magic of the holidays with these irresistibly chewy and creamy Sparking Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies! Each bite delivers a delightful burst of cool peppermint, complemented by a rich cheesecake tang and adorned with festive crushed candy canes. They’re a joyful fusion of classic cookie comfort and decadent cheesecake luxury, guaranteed to be the star of any festive spread.
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 ounces (½ block) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies, plus extra for topping (about 8-10 regular candy canes)
- Optional: 4 ounces white chocolate, melted, for drizzling
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened unsalted butter and cream cheese until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the granulated sugar and beat until well combined and fluffy, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Beat in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until just combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined and a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in ½ cup of the crushed peppermint candies into the dough until evenly distributed.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours. This step is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough and roll them into smooth balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. Gently flatten each cookie dough ball slightly with the palm of your hand.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are just set. The cookies will look slightly puffy. Do not overbake.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. While still warm, you can gently press a few extra crushed peppermint candies onto the tops for extra festive sparkle.
- Once completely cooled, if desired, melt the white chocolate according to package directions. Drizzle over the cookies and immediately sprinkle with additional crushed peppermint candies before the chocolate sets.
Notes
For perfectly crushed peppermint candies, place candy canes in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin or meat mallet to crush them. Store these Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to 2 months. For a fun variation, try adding a drizzle of melted dark chocolate instead of white!
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg