01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 - Whisk flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl until evenly mixed. Set aside.
03 - Beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together in a large bowl until light and creamy using an electric mixer or sturdy whisk.
04 - Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Incorporate vanilla extract and peppermint extract.
05 - Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overwork the dough.
06 - Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies until evenly distributed.
07 - Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing each ball about 2 inches apart.
08 - If desired, sprinkle additional crushed peppermint on top of the dough balls for a decorative finish.
09 - Bake for 9 to 11 minutes until edges are lightly golden and centers remain soft.
10 - Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.