Peppermint Biscotti

Linda Marino
Posted on January 27, 2026
February 8, 2026
by Linda Marino

Peppermint Biscotti

The first time I baked these Peppermint Biscotti, the house filled with a clean, sweet scent that wrapped around my kids like a soft blanket. I remember small hands pressing cookie cutters into play dough while I shaped the dough, and the clink of porcelain cups as we set a pot of coffee on the table. If you want a little holiday in the kitchen any morning, this recipe brings that hush and that bright peppermint together, and it sits so well beside an easy peppermint meltaways recipe I like to keep on hand for school parties.

Why This Peppermint Biscotti Means So Much

I made biscotti for the first time when my mother was still alive. She loved anything crisp and minty. This version with white chocolate and crushed peppermints came from one of those slow afternoons when we were both humming and cleaning the counter together.

It feels like a little gift in a tin. The peppermint lifts the mood. The white chocolate gives a creamy hush against the hard snap. When guests visit, I set these out on a small plate and watch people close their eyes as they take the first bite.
Peppermint Biscotti

There is comfort in the ritual of slicing the warm loaf, of watching the edges turn golden. Each bite keeps a memory and a sound: the light snap when you bite, the soft fizz of candy on your tongue. That is what this recipe gives our family again and again.

How to Make Peppermint Biscotti

“Every time I stir this pot, it smells just like Sunday at home.”

Before you mix, clear a clean space on the counter and gather the bowls. This recipe moves in quiet, steady steps. You will notice pale dough becoming glossy and the faint jingle of crushed peppermint as it folds in.

Watch the color as you mix. The dough should be a soft, pale cream. Listen for a gentle thud when you press the loaves into shape on the sheet. That tells you they have the right heft and will bake into crisp biscotti rather than thick cookies. If you want something warm and soothing right alongside, a mug of peppermint hot cocoa pairs beautifully while you work.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 cube, softened)
3 eggs
1 cup sugar
2 teaspoons peppermint extract
3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup crushed peppermint candies
1 cup white chocolate chips (6 ounces)
1 tablespoon shortening
1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies

A few warm notes: use fresh butter it makes all the difference in flavor. If you love cozy spice, add a dash more cinnamon. If you prefer milder mint, reduce the peppermint extract to 1 1/2 teaspoons.

I like to set the candies in a small bowl and crush gently with a rolling pin so the pieces are varied. Some pieces should be tiny dust to melt into the dough; some should stay a bit bigger to give that delightful crunch.

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper.
    Watch for the oven to come to full temperature. A steady heat will give a clean bake and even color.
  2. In a large bowl, beat on medium speed the butter, eggs, sugar and peppermint extract until combined.
    Beat until the mixture looks glossy and soft. It will smell bright and clean from the peppermint.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, baking powder and salt.
    Stir with a whisk to get the baking powder evenly spread. This keeps the loaves from having dense pockets.
  4. Stir 1/2 of the flour mixture into the egg mixture. Stir in remaining half of flour when first half is fully combined into the butter mixture. Stir in crushed peppermint.
    Work with a wooden spoon or low speed on a mixer. The dough should come together, soft but not sticky.
  5. On a floured cutting board, divide dough in half. Shape each dough half into a long roll, approximately 14-16″ long. Carefully place rolls on prepared baking sheet, about 3″ apart from each other. With your hand, press down each roll so that they are approximately 1/2″ high.
    The rolls will look like long loaves. Press gently so you keep some air inside; that makes the slices lift and crisp.
  6. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Carefully remove from pans and place on cooling racks. Set aside baking sheet, as it will be reused.
    Watch for even golden edges. The loaves should be lightly firm when you touch them.
  7. When biscotti had cooled enough to handle, but is still warm, carefully move them to a cutting board and cut crosswise slices (approximately 1/2″ in size). Place slices, cut side down, back on original baking sheet. Bake for 5-10 minutes or until somewhat firm. Transfer to wire racks to completely cool, with tops upwards.
    Slice with a sharp serrated knife for clean edges. The warm slices cut easily and keep a neat shape.
  8. Place white chocolate chips and shortening in a small bowl. Heat for 20 seconds to melt chips. Stir, and if necessary, continue microwave at 5-10 second intervals to completely melt chocolate. Place chocolate in a small zipper-style plastic bag, seal, and snip off a very tiny corner of the bag. Squeeze out white chocolate through this small hole (increase size if necessary) and drizzle back and forth over the tops of the biscotti. While drizzle is still wet, sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.
    The white chocolate should be smooth and glossy. Drizzle in thin lines so each bite gets a bit of creamy sweetness and a bit of candy crunch.
  9. Let the drizzle set at room temperature or pop the tray into the fridge for five minutes if you are in a hurry.
    Once set, the biscotti will hold their crisp bite and the candy will keep its crunch.

Serving Peppermint Biscotti With Family Warmth

Place the biscotti on a small wooden board or a simple plate and set it beside cups of coffee or hot tea. I often make a little tray for the kids with small mugs of cocoa and let them choose their favorite piece.

These biscotti are a gentle snack between meals or a welcome dessert after a simple dinner. I like to put out a jar of extra crushed peppermint and a small bowl of extra white chocolate drizzle so family members can decorate their own.
Peppermint Biscotti

When friends arrive, I arrange a few biscotti standing in a mug to give a casual, cozy look. For a quiet morning, I pair a slice with buttered toast for someone who wants a little more substance. You might also enjoy a piece with a spoonful of yogurt for a lighter taste while still keeping the festive crunch.

I keep a small stack on the counter during busy mornings so children can grab one with a milk cup before they run out the door. It makes the day feel started and warmed.

Storing Peppermint Biscotti for Tomorrow

Store biscotti in an airtight container at room temperature. They keep their crisp edge for up to two weeks when kept away from heat and humidity.

If you live somewhere humid, pop a small paper towel inside the container to gently absorb moisture. For longer storage, freeze the biscotti in a single layer on a tray until firm, then pack into a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving, and if you like, refresh in a warm oven for five minutes.

If you have made them ahead, I promise they taste even friendlier the next day. The peppermint settles with the sugar and the white chocolate breathes a little into the crumb. When you reheat for a minute or two, the aroma returns like someone opening a door to welcome you.

Little Kitchen Notes

  • Use room temperature eggs and softened butter. They blend more smoothly and give a tender crumb.
  • If your dough feels sticky, dust lightly with flour and shape with floured hands. A little flour on your board helps keep the loaves tidy.
  • Slice with a serrated knife and a gentle sawing motion. Pressing straight down can flatten the biscotti.
  • If you want a prettier drizzle, chill the biscotti briefly so the chocolate sets in delicate lines.
  • Save the extra crushed peppermint in a small jar in the pantry for one month.

Family Variations on Peppermint Biscotti

We change this recipe in small ways to match the season and who is coming for tea. For a softer, chewier bite, bake the slices a minute less during the second round. For a crisper snap, extend that second bake by a minute or two.

Add a handful of chopped toasted almonds or pistachios for nuttiness that plays well with the peppermint. My sister loves a smear of almond butter under the white chocolate drizzle for a richer bit of flavor.

If you want a chocolatey version, swap half the flour for cocoa and fold in mini chocolate chips with the peppermint. Or try stirring in orange zest for a bright winter twist. For quick sweet gifts, nestle three biscotti in a box with a ribbon and a note.

Sometimes we break tradition and pair these with soft candies and other treats, like the soft Christmas peppermints my niece loves. Small changes keep the same warm feeling and let each household make it their own.

FAQs About Peppermint Biscotti

Can I bake this a day ahead?

Yes, and honestly, it tastes even better the next day when the flavors settle together.

Can I make biscotti without white chocolate?

Yes. You can skip the drizzle and toss a few extra crushed peppermint pieces on top before the second bake if you want peppermint without the extra sweetness.

How do I keep biscotti crisp in humid weather?

Store them in an airtight container with a paper towel and keep the container in a cool, dry spot. Freezing is a good option for longer storage.

Can I replace peppermint extract with vanilla?

You can, but the recipe will become a classic almond-like biscotti rather than minty. Use 1 teaspoon of vanilla if you prefer a light change.

Is there a way to make these gluten-free?

Yes. Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and bake, watching texture. The crumb may be a touch different, but the peppermint and chocolate will still shine.

A Final Thought

I hope when you make these Peppermint Biscotti, you find a small pause in the day. Let the kitchen fill with the cool scent of peppermint and the warm caramel notes from the baking. Watch the faces of family and friends as they taste that first crisp bite. These moments are simple and slow, the kind you tuck away like a pressed flower in a book.

Keep a pot of hot drink nearby, hum a little song, and know that this recipe will greet you for seasons to come. It has been a small comfort to my own family, and I pass it on with a warm hand and an easy heart.

Conclusion

If you would like another version or a memory-filled take on this cookie, I recommend reading this thoughtful collection of memories and tips for Peppermint Biscotti found at Peppermint Biscotti – Home Cooking Memories.

Plate of homemade peppermint biscotti with festive decoration

Peppermint Biscotti

These delightful biscotti are infused with peppermint and drizzled with white chocolate, making them a perfect holiday treat that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine Holiday, Italian
Servings 16 pieces
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Biscotti

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 cube, softened) Use fresh butter for better flavor.
  • 3 pieces eggs Use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons peppermint extract Reduce to 1.5 teaspoons for milder mint flavor.
  • 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder Helps with the leavening.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup crushed peppermint candies Crushed into varied sizes for texture.
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips (6 ounces)
  • 1 tablespoon shortening Used to melt with white chocolate.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, beat the butter, eggs, sugar, and peppermint extract on medium speed until combined and glossy.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • Stir half of the flour mixture into the egg mixture until combined, then add the remaining flour and stir until fully incorporated.
  • Fold in the crushed peppermint candies.
  • On a floured surface, divide the dough in half and shape each half into a roll approximately 14-16 inches long.
  • Place rolls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 3 inches apart, and gently press each roll to about 1/2 inch high.
  • Bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool.
  • Once cooled, slice each loaf crosswise into 1/2 inch thick slices and place cut side down back on the baking sheet.
  • Bake again for 5-10 minutes until firm, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Drizzle

  • In a small bowl, combine the white chocolate chips and shortening. Heat for 20 seconds in the microwave to melt, stirring until smooth.
  • Transfer the melted chocolate to a small zipper-style plastic bag. Snip off a tiny corner and drizzle over the biscotti.
  • While the drizzle is still wet, sprinkle with the remaining crushed peppermint candies.
  • Allow the drizzle to set at room temperature or refrigerate for 5 minutes.

Notes

These biscotti can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you live in a humid area, include a paper towel in the container to absorb moisture. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer and then pack into a freezer bag. Reheat in a warm oven for refreshed flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 2gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 50mgSugar: 6g
Keyword Biscotti, Cookies, holiday treat, peppermint, White Chocolate
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Author
  • Mom Linda cooking in a cozy kitchen for Lazy Meal Prep

    Linda Marino, retired school cafeteria manager with 25+ years’ experience, now shares her trusted family recipes on Lazy Meal Prep offering comforting, practical, no-fuss meals busy families can rely on.

You may also like

Leave a Comment