Oreo Peppermint Crunch Cookies: A Festive Holiday Treat

Oreo Peppermint Crunch Cookies: Prepare to be utterly captivated by these festive delights! Imagine the classic, comforting crunch of an Oreo, elevated to a whole new level with the invigorating coolness of peppermint. These aren’t just cookies; they’re a holiday experience packed into each and every bite.

While the Oreo itself is a relatively modern invention, dating back to the early 20th century, the combination of chocolate and peppermint has a long and cherished history, particularly around the winter holidays. Think of candy canes, peppermint bark, and hot chocolate with a peppermint twist – these flavors evoke feelings of warmth, joy, and celebration. Our Oreo Peppermint Crunch Cookies tap into that same nostalgic spirit, offering a familiar yet exciting treat that’s perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!).

What makes these cookies so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The rich, dark chocolate of the Oreo provides a satisfying base, while the crushed peppermint candies add a delightful burst of freshness and a satisfying crunch. They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal baking skills, and they’re guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering. Plus, the vibrant red and white peppermint pieces make them visually stunning, adding a touch of festive cheer to any dessert table. Get ready to bake up a batch of these addictive cookies – you won’t regret it!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Oreo Cookie Base:
• 1 ½ cups (192g) all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (1 stick or 113g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• ¾ cup (150g) packed light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (about 24 cookies) Oreo cookie crumbs (finely crushed)
• For the Peppermint Cream Cheese Filling:
• 8 ounces (226g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (1 stick or 113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2-3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (to adjust consistency)
• ½ cup crushed peppermint candies (like candy canes)
• For Decoration (Optional):
• Melted white chocolate
• Extra crushed peppermint candies
• Mini Oreo cookies

Making the Oreo Cookie Dough

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the baking soda and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is crucial for proper leavening and flavor. Set this aside for now.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The mixture should be noticeably lighter in color and have a smoother texture. This step is important because it incorporates air into the dough, which helps create a tender cookie.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed. The egg adds moisture and richness to the dough, while the vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor.
4. Gradually Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten in the flour and result in tough cookies. Mix until you no longer see streaks of flour.
5. Incorporate Oreo Cookie Crumbs: Gently fold in the crushed Oreo cookie crumbs until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This is what gives these cookies their signature Oreo flavor and texture. Make sure the crumbs are finely crushed for the best results.
6. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax and the flavors to meld together. Chilling also prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking. You can chill the dough for up to 24 hours if needed.

Baking the Oreo Cookies

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
2. Scoop and Shape the Dough: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. You can gently flatten the cookies slightly with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass.
3. Bake the Cookies: Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The centers of the cookies may still appear slightly soft, but they will continue to set as they cool.
4. Cool the Cookies: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking while they are still warm and soft.

Making the Peppermint Cream Cheese Filling

1. Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large bowl (or the bowl of a stand mixer), cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. This is a crucial step for a smooth and lump-free filling. Make sure both the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for the best results.
2. Gradually Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until combined. Be careful not to add the powdered sugar too quickly, as it can create a cloud of dust. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
3. Add Peppermint Extract and Salt: Beat in the peppermint extract and salt until well combined. The peppermint extract provides the signature peppermint flavor, while the salt balances the sweetness of the filling.
4. Adjust Consistency: Add milk or heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the filling reaches your desired consistency. You want the filling to be thick enough to hold its shape but still spreadable.
5. Fold in Crushed Peppermint Candies: Gently fold in the crushed peppermint candies until they are evenly distributed throughout the filling. This adds a festive touch and a burst of peppermint flavor.
6. Chill the Filling: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the filling in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help the filling firm up and make it easier to spread.

Assembling the Oreo Peppermint Crunch Cookies

1. Pair the Cookies: Match up the cookies by size and shape. This will create a more uniform and visually appealing final product.
2. Spread the Filling: Spread a generous amount of the peppermint cream cheese filling onto the flat side of one cookie.
3. Top with Another Cookie: Top with the flat side of another cookie, creating a sandwich. Gently press the cookies together to evenly distribute the filling.
4. Decorate (Optional): If desired, melt white chocolate according to package directions. Dip the assembled cookies halfway into the melted white chocolate and then sprinkle with extra crushed peppermint candies. You can also attach a mini Oreo cookie to the top of each sandwich with a dab of melted chocolate.
5. Chill the Assembled Cookies: Place the assembled cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling to set and the chocolate to harden (if using).
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Oreo Peppermint Crunch Cookies chilled or at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Tips for Success:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for the filling. This will ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing the cookie dough can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet filling, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar.
• Get Creative with Decorations: Feel free to get creative with your decorations! You can use different types of sprinkles, chocolate shavings, or even edible glitter.
• Make Ahead: The cookie dough and filling can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Variations:

• Chocolate Peppermint: Add cocoa powder to the cookie dough for a chocolate peppermint version.
• Different Extracts: Experiment with different extracts in the filling, such as almond or vanilla.
• Different Candies: Use different types of crushed candies in the filling, such as chocolate-covered pretzels or peanut butter cups.
• Dipped in Chocolate: Dip the entire cookie sandwich in melted chocolate for an extra decadent treat.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! These Oreo Peppermint Crunch Cookies are more than just a holiday treat; they’re a delightful explosion of flavor and texture that will have everyone reaching for seconds (and thirds!). The combination of the classic Oreo, the refreshing peppermint, and that satisfying crunch is simply irresistible. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try, especially if you’re looking for something festive and relatively easy to bake.

Why is this recipe a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible taste, it’s incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for holiday cookie exchanges, potlucks, or even just a cozy night in with a mug of hot cocoa. The recipe is also easily adaptable to your preferences. Don’t have peppermint extract? A few drops of peppermint oil will do the trick! Want to add even more chocolatey goodness? Throw in some chocolate chips! The possibilities are endless. Plus, let’s be honest, who can resist an Oreo cookie, especially when it’s been elevated to this level of deliciousness?

Now, let’s talk serving suggestions. These cookies are fantastic on their own, of course, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. Imagine enjoying one with a steaming cup of coffee, a rich hot chocolate, or even a glass of cold milk. For a truly decadent experience, try crumbling them over vanilla ice cream or using them as the base for a peppermint bark cheesecake. You could even get creative and use them to decorate a gingerbread house!

And speaking of variations, don’t be afraid to experiment! If you’re not a fan of peppermint, you could try using other extracts like vanilla, almond, or even orange. You could also swap out the crushed peppermint candies for other toppings like sprinkles, chopped nuts, or even mini chocolate chips. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free Oreos and ensure your peppermint candies are also gluten-free. The key is to have fun and make the recipe your own!

I’m so excited for you to try these Oreo Peppermint Crunch Cookies. I have a feeling they’ll become a new holiday favorite in your household, just like they have in mine. The recipe is straightforward, the ingredients are readily available, and the results are simply divine.

So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake some magic! And most importantly, don’t forget to share your experience with me. I’d love to hear how your cookies turned out, what variations you tried, and what your family and friends thought of them. You can leave a comment below, tag me on social media, or even send me an email. I can’t wait to see your creations! Happy baking! I am confident that you will find that this Oreo Peppermint Crunch Cookies recipe will be a delightful addition to your baking repertoire.