Creating Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies from scratch is straightforward if you follow these steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat until creamy.
3. Add Eggs and Extracts: Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Mix until well incorporated.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. Fold in Chips and Candies: Gently fold in the chocolate chips and crushed mint candies, if using. Add a few drops of green food coloring for a festive look.
7. Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown but the centers appear soft.
9. Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

These steps are simple and ensure you create amazing Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies every time!