Copycat Trader Joe’s Peppermint Cookies – Festive, Minty & Chocolatey
Introduction
These Peppermint Chocolate Sandwich Cookies are a homemade twist on the beloved Trader Joe’s holiday treat. Crisp chocolate cookies are filled with peppermint cream, dipped in rich chocolate, and sprinkled with crushed candy canes for the ultimate seasonal indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Festive flavor: Peppermint + chocolate = holiday perfection.
Homemade upgrade: Skip store‑bought, enjoy fresh cookies.
Beautiful presentation: Candy cane topping adds sparkle.
Make‑ahead friendly: Cookies keep well for gifting.
Ingredients
Peppermint Chocolate Cookies
½ cup salted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
½ tsp peppermint extract
1¼ cups all‑purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
¼ tsp salt
Peppermint Filling
½ cup salted butter, softened
¼ cup vegetable shortening
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp peppermint extract
3–4 cups powdered sugar
2 peppermint candy canes, crushed
Chocolate Coating
4 cups semi‑sweet chocolate chips
½ tsp peppermint extract
4 peppermint candy canes, crushed
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Make Cookies
Cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
Mix in egg and peppermint extract. Stir in flour, cocoa, and salt.
Roll dough into a 2‑inch log, wrap, and freeze 30–60 minutes.
Slice thin (about 80 slices) and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
Cool completely on wire rack.
Step 2: Make Filling
Beat butter, shortening, vanilla, and peppermint until smooth.
Add powdered sugar gradually until thick.
Stir in crushed candy canes.
Form teaspoon‑sized discs and sandwich between two cookies.
Step 3: Coat in Chocolate
Melt chocolate chips in microwave, stirring until smooth.
Stir in peppermint extract.
Dip sandwich cookies in chocolate, then sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
Place on parchment to set.
Tips & Tricks
Thin slices: Keep dough firm for neat, crisp cookies.
Extra crunch: Roll dipped cookies in crushed candy canes.
Storage: Keep in airtight container up to 1 week.
Freezer‑friendly: Freeze dipped cookies up to 2 months.
Variations
White Chocolate Dip: Swap semi‑sweet for white chocolate.
Double Mint: Add extra peppermint extract to filling.
Holiday Colors: Use red & green sprinkles instead of candy canes.
Mini Sandwiches: Slice dough thinner for bite‑sized treats.
Serving Ideas
Serve on a holiday cookie platter.
Pair with hot cocoa or peppermint lattes.
Wrap in cellophane bags for festive gifts.
Present on a tiered stand at parties.
FAQs
Q: Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?
Yes, just add ¼ tsp extra salt to dough.
Q: Can I skip the shortening in filling?
Yes, replace with butter, but texture will be softer.
Q: Can I make these ahead?
Absolutely—cookies taste even better after a day as flavors meld.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: ~40 sandwich cookies
Final Thoughts
These Copycat Trader Joe’s Peppermint Cookies are crisp, minty, and dipped in chocolate for a festive finish. They’re the perfect holiday treat to share, gift, or enjoy with a cozy drink.