Description
These Peppermint Cheesecake Cookies are soft, chewy holiday cookies bursting with cool peppermint flavor and creamy cheesecake richness. Crushed candy canes, white chocolate drizzle, and a fluffy texture make them the ultimate festive treat for cookie trays, parties, and gifting. Easy to make, freezer-friendly, and totally irresistible.
Ingredients
For the cookie dough:
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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1 teaspoon peppermint extract
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 teaspoon baking powder
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
For topping (optional):
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Powdered sugar for dusting
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Additional crushed peppermint for garnish
Instructions
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add the sugar and beat until light and fluffy.
Mix in the egg, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract until combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Fold in the crushed peppermint candies.
Cover and refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them on the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are just set and the centers look slightly underbaked.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Dust with powdered sugar and sprinkle with extra crushed peppermint if desired before serving.
Notes
Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest flavor. Chill dough to prevent spreading and create bakery-style cookies. Customize with red and white swirls, stuffed cream cheese centers, or a white chocolate drizzle. These cookies are perfect for holiday gift boxes or cookie swaps and can be made ahead and frozen for easy entertaining.