If you want to add a mint flavor to your next batch of cookies, there are two popular methods. The first one is to use peppermint extract, which adds a mint flavor directly to the cookie dough. This is great for dark chocolate mint cookies, but the mint can easily taste like toothpaste if you use too much. My favorite method is to use crushed candy canes or peppermint candies. They break very easily (just crush them in a plastic bag with a rolling pin), keep the mint flavor from becoming overpowering, and the iconic red and white colors tell everyone exactly what's inside.