Creating Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies is a breeze if you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy and smooth.
4. Add Eggs and Extracts: Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the butter mixture. Beat until well combined.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies (if using).
7. Scoop Cookies: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
9. Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

These simple steps will guide you in creating these incredible cookies effortlessly.