Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer or whisk.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Fold in the crushed peppermint candy and white chocolate chips (if using).

Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.

Gently press each cookie dough ball with the back of a fork or your fingers to flatten slightly. Sprinkle additional crushed peppermint candy on top.

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should look slightly undercooked as they will firm up while cooling.

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.