Amid the flurry of holiday preparations, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies filling the kitchen. As the air turns cooler and festive lights begin to twinkle, I find myself craving the sweet, minty flavor of peppermint that characterizes this magical season. Enter my Vegan White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies—a delightful treat that perfectly combines the richness of dairy-free white chocolate with the refreshing zest of crushed peppermint candies.
These cookies don’t just look gorgeous on a platter; they are soft, chewy, and bursting with flavors that evoke cherished memories of holiday gatherings. Best of all, they cater to a variety of dietary preferences, making them an inclusive option for everyone at your table. Whether you’re planning a cookie swap or looking for the perfect gift to bring to a holiday party, this recipe is as easy to whip up as it is delicious. Grab your mixing bowls and let’s dive into these festive delights, guaranteed to impress family and friends alike!
Why Choose Vegan White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?
Deliciously Festive: The delightful combination of creamy white chocolate and refreshing peppermint brings the holiday spirit to life in each bite.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies can be prepared in no time, perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Suitable for Everyone: Catering to vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-free diets, these cookies ensure that no one feels left out during celebrations.
Perfect Texture: Enjoy a delightful chewiness complemented by the satisfying crunch of crushed peppermint and melting chocolate.
Great for Gifting: Pack them in decorative boxes for an impressive gift that friends and family will adore.
Baking Memories: Create cherished moments in the kitchen with loved ones, making these cookies a wonderful holiday tradition.
Ingredients for Vegan White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
For the Batter
• Almond Flour – Provides gluten-free structure; substitute with oat flour for a different texture.
• Coconut Sugar – Sweetener that gives a caramel-like flavor; can be replaced with brown sugar.
• Baking Soda – Helps cookies rise; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Salt – Enhances sweetness and balance; use sea salt for a subtle flavor boost.
• Coconut Oil – Adds moisture and richness; can substitute with vegan butter.
• Non-Dairy Milk – Liquefies the batter; use almond milk, soy milk, or any plant-based milk.
For the Chocolate and Peppermint
• Dairy-Free White Chocolate Chips – Creates a creamy, sweet chocolate flavor; substitute with dark chocolate chips for a different taste.
• Crushed Peppermint Candies – Adds holiday flavor and crunch; use candy canes for an easy option or make your own crushed peppermints.
These Vegan White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are not only a delicious treat but also cater to various dietary needs, ensuring everyone can indulge this holiday season!
How to Make Vegan White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, coconut sugar, baking soda, and salt. This combination provides structure and flavor—make sure everything is well combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, melt your coconut oil and mix it with non-dairy milk. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully blended, adding richness to your cookies.
Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. As you mix, add in the dairy-free white chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies for that festive touch.
Scoop Dough: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly to allow spread while baking.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking!
Cool Cookies: Once baked, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: Drizzle with melted dairy-free white chocolate for an extra festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Vegan White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Measure Accurately: Use precise measurements for almond flour; too much can cause dense cookies instead of the desired light texture.
Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking soda is fresh to guarantee that your cookies rise beautifully in the oven.
Cooling Time: Let the cookies cool completely before storing to avoid moisture buildup, keeping them soft and chewy.
Crush Peppermints: For a fresher taste and varied texture, crush the peppermint candies yourself instead of buying pre-crushed ones.
Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to swap in dark chocolate chips or nuts for added flavor and texture in your Vegan White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies!
Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature non-dairy milk to help the dough mix more smoothly and evenly.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly and refrigerate. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. For best results, scoop the dough onto the baking sheet and freeze the individual cookie portions for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw—just pop them in the preheated oven, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, you can enjoy fresh, soft cookies with minimal effort amidst your holiday hustle!
What to Serve with Vegan White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?
Savor the holiday spirit with these delightful cookies, perfect for a festive gathering or cozy night in.
- Hot Cocoa: Enjoy with a rich, creamy hot cocoa; the warmth wonderfully complements the minty freshness of the cookies.
- Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors of the cookies for a delightful pairing.
- Fruit Salad: Brighten your table with a light, refreshing fruit salad; the freshness contrasts beautifully with the rich cookie texture.
- Vegan Ice Cream: Pair with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream for a dreamy dessert that adds a creamy touch to your treat.
- Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy nut and dried fruit mix offers a textural contrast and nutty flavor that pairs nicely with the soft cookies.
- Holiday Punch: Serve with a fizzy holiday punch that echoes the minty notes of the cookies, adding a refreshing zing to your dessert spread.
How to Store and Freeze Vegan White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container for up to 2-3 weeks at room temperature to maintain freshness.
Fridge: If you prefer, store them in the fridge for up to a week to prolong shelf life; allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: To warm up, reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until soft, enhancing the delightful flavors of these Vegan White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.
Variations & Substitutions for Vegan White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and customize it to your taste preferences!
- Gluten-Free: Use oat flour instead of almond flour for a different texture and a nutty flavor boost.
- Sweetness: Substitute coconut sugar with maple syrup for a liquid sweetener option that pairs well with peppermint.
- Chocolaty Twist: Add dark chocolate chips instead of dairy-free white chocolate for an indulgent flavor contrast.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition, enhancing the cookie’s texture.
- Minty Freshness: Swap in peppermint extract instead of crushed candies for a more concentrated mint flavor throughout the cookie.
- Holiday Spice: Sprinkle in cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy twist that complements the peppermint beautifully.
- Coconut Lover: Incorporate shredded coconut for added texture and a tropical flair that pairs nicely with the white chocolate.
- Chewy Variation: Use brown rice syrup instead of coconut sugar for a chewier cookie that’s equally delightful.
Let your imagination run wild and bring your unique touch to these festive treats!
Vegan White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best almond flour for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing almond flour, opt for finely ground almond flour for a smoother texture, which aids in achieving soft and chewy cookies. Check the package for freshness and any dark spots that may indicate spoilage. If you’re looking for a different flavor, you can also try oat flour, which lends a nuttier taste to your cookies!
What’s the best way to store Vegan White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 weeks. The less exposure to air, the softer they will remain! If they begin to harden, reheating briefly in the microwave can help restore their chewy texture.
Can I freeze these cookies, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze these cookies! After baking and cooling them completely, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm (about an hour). Then, transfer the cookies to an airtight container or freezer bag, layering parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months! When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.
What if my cookies don’t spread during baking?
No worries! If your cookies don’t spread as much as you’d like, it could be due to over-measuring the almond flour. Make sure to lightly spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off. You can try flattening the dough balls slightly before baking to encourage spreading as well!
Are these cookies suitable for my friends with allergies?
Very! These Vegan White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are designed to be allergy-free, using no dairy, gluten, or animal products. However, if you have guests with nut allergies, it’s best to substitute almond flour with a safe alternative, such as oat flour. Always check ingredient labels for potential cross-contamination.
Can I substitute the crushed peppermint candies?
Of course! If you’re looking for a peppermint flavor without the candies, consider using peppermint extract instead. Just add a few drops to the wet ingredients for a refreshing taste without the crunch. Alternatively, you can use crumbled candy canes for a festive touch!
Irresistibly Soft Vegan White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, coconut sugar, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, melt your coconut oil and mix it with non-dairy milk until smooth.
- Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, adding in the white chocolate chips and crushed peppermint.
- Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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