
Festive Peppermint Oreo Cookies
These Peppermint Oreo Cookies pack a holiday punch by mixing traditional tastes with a merry spin. The cookie dough gets its amazing softness from cream cheese and butter, while chunks of Oreo, peppermint bits, and dark chocolate chips create flavor explosions in every bite. Perfect for Christmas gatherings, homemade gifts, or just snacking, everyone will love these seasonal treats.
INGREDIENTS- Box of white cake mix: 1 box, works as your cookie foundation
- Softened unsalted butter: 8 tbsp, makes everything rich and tender
- Large egg: 1, holds everything together
- Vanilla extract: ½ tsp, rounds out the flavor
- Peppermint extract: ½ tsp, gives that cool minty kick
- Softened cream cheese: 4 oz, adds wonderful smoothness
- Dark chocolate chips: ½ cup (plus extra for topping), brings deep cocoa notes
- Andes Peppermint Crunch bits: 1 cup (plus extra for topping), adds holiday sweetness
- Chunks of Oreo cookies: 1 cup, gives that awesome crunch
- Step 6:
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a couple minutes before moving them to a cooling rack.
- Step 5:
- Put 12 dough balls on your cookie sheet and bake for 10-11 minutes. Keep the other 12 cold in the fridge. Don't cook them too long - they should look a bit soft when done.
- Step 4:
- Heat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Form the dough into 24 balls.
- Step 3:
- Chill the dough in your fridge for at least 60 minutes to make it firmer.
- Step 2:
- Mix in the Oreo pieces, peppermint crunch bits, and chocolate chips with a light touch.
- Step 1:
- Mix the cake mix, softened butter, egg, peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and cream cheese in a bowl until you get a soft dough.
- They're awesome with hot chocolate or a cup of coffee.
- Keep them in a sealed container so they stay soft.
- Sprinkle extra peppermint bits on top for a festive look.
- Cooling the dough in the fridge helps the cookies keep their shape while baking.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Claire thinks adding a tiny bit of espresso powder creates an interesting flavor combo.
Getting holiday cookies just right comes down to watching the clock and getting the feel right. When you chill your dough for at least an hour, it's easier to handle and makes your cookies chewy inside after baking. Also, watch them closely so you don't overbake them - that's how you keep them soft and flavorful. Before they go in the oven, throw some extra peppermint chunks and chocolate chips on top for a pretty finish.
Why These Cookies Are a Festive FavoriteThese Peppermint Oreo Cookies bring together childhood flavors and holiday cheer. The combo of chocolate, mint, and creamy goodness feels both familiar and special, making them stand out at parties or for quiet evenings by the fire.
FAQsCan I freeze the dough for later use?
You bet! Just freeze the dough balls and bake them whenever you want fresh cookies.
How do I make them more minty?
Just add another ¼ tsp of peppermint extract if you want a stronger mint taste.
Can I use different types of chocolate chips?
For sure! Try milk or white chocolate chips if you want to mix it up.
Do I need to refrigerate leftovers?
They'll be fine in an airtight container at room temperature for about 5 days, or put them in the fridge to keep them fresh longer.
