Why You’ll Love This Recipe
As the scent of freshly baked cookies wafts through your home, you can’t help but feel cozy and content. There’s something magical about the combination of chocolate and peppermint, especially during the chilly winter months. These Ultimate Chocolate Peppermint Cookies wrap you in warmth, creating a sense of joy that only baking can bring.
Imagine gathering your loved ones around the kitchen counter, sharing stories as you roll the dough into perfect little balls. Or think about the delightful surprise on your children’s faces when they take that first bite, their eyes lighting up with glee. This recipe isn’t just about cookies; it’s about creating memories and moments that will last a lifetime.
Perfect for holiday baking, cookie exchanges, or simply an afternoon treat, these cookies are a festive hug in a delicious bite. They are soft, chewy, and packed with chunks of chocolate and crushed peppermint candies. You’ll find that they bring smiles to everyone who tastes them. Let’s dive into making these delightful treats together!
how to make Ultimate Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Gather your ingredients, and let’s get started on this delightful journey. Baking should feel like a warm embrace, so grab a comfy apron and let’s create something beautiful in the kitchen!
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour
- ¾ cup Cocoa Powder (Dutch-processed preferred)
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
- ½ teaspoon Baking Powder
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened)
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 cup Brown Sugar (packed)
- 2 large Eggs
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
- 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract
- 2 cups Chocolate Chips or Chunks
- 1 cup Peppermint Candies (Crushed)
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This step makes your home start to feel inviting right away.
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In a bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer. You want to mix until it’s like soft clouds of sweetness.
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure they’re well incorporated. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract. This is where the magic of peppermint really begins to shine.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. The dark cocoa powder will give your cookies that rich color and flavor we love.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix because we want tender cookies.
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Stir in the chocolate chips or chunks and the crushed peppermint candies. The bright bits of peppermint add not just flavor but a pop of color too.
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Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes (or overnight). Chilling is an important step that helps the cookies hold their shape, so don’t skip this!
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Drop by rounded tablespoons onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave enough space between them, as they will spread a little while baking.
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Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly soft. The smell will be irresistible.
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Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This is the part where you can taste test one while they’re still warm!
how to serve Ultimate Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
These cookies are delightful on their own, but let me share a few ways to elevate your cookie experience! First, serve them with a nice cup of hot cocoa or peppermint tea. The warm drinks perfectly complement the cool minty flavors.
If you’re hosting a brunch, arrange them on a festive platter. You can even dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a lovely snowy effect. Imagine your friends gathering around, laughter filling the room as they indulge in your sweet creations.
And for the little ones, why not create a fun cookie decorating station? Set out toppings like icing, sprinkles, or even more crushed peppermint, allowing everyone to personalize their cookies. It’s a delightful way to share creativity and joy.
how to store Ultimate Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and tasty for up to a week. If you think you might not eat them all right away, these cookies also freeze quite well. Just place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers, and they’ll be ready for any impromptu gatherings or sweet cravings.
tips to make Ultimate Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
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Use Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your cookies hinges on the quality of the ingredients. Choose good cocoa powder and pure peppermint extract for the best taste. It makes a world of difference in your final product.
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Don’t Skip the Chill Time: Chilling the dough not only helps with shaping but also enhances the flavor. If you’re in a hurry, an hour may be sufficient. However, overnight is ideal for a deeper taste.
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Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is a little different, so keep an eye on your cookies. They should look set at the edges but still soft in the middle. They will continue to cook slightly once out of the oven.
variation (if any)
If you want to switch things up, consider adding some nuts. Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a lovely crunch that pairs well with the soft, chewy cookies. Another fun twist is to mix in white chocolate chips along with the dark ones for an extra layer of flavor and sweetness. You could even use crushed Oreos instead of peppermint candies for a chocolatey twist!
Pro Tips for Success
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This will help them mix better and create a batter that is airy and fluffy. If you forget, don’t worry; you can gently warm the eggs in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes.
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Measuring Flour: When measuring flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Scooping straight from the bag can compact the flour, leading to denser cookies. We want them light and chewy!
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Taste Test Wisely: While you’re mixing, it’s tempting to taste the dough. Just make sure to do this thoughtfully, especially with raw eggs in the mix. Sneak a taste of the baked cookie instead!
Serving Ideas
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Cookie Platters: For a holiday party or bake sale, create a cookie platter with a variety of treats. Mix in some classic sugar cookies or maybe snickerdoodles to offer a delightful assortment.
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Gift Jars: Fill mason jars with cookies and tie them with a pretty ribbon. These make wonderful gifts for friends, coworkers, or neighbors. You can even add a little tag with your favorite baking tips or a sweet note.
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Ice Cream Sandwiches: For a summer treat, sandwich a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream between two cookies. Freeze them briefly, and you have gourmet ice cream sandwiches perfect for any occasion.
FAQs
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! Feel free to use semi-sweet, dark, or even white chocolate. Each will bring its unique flavor and texture.
What if I can’t find crushed peppermint candies?
You can substitute with crushed candy canes, or leave them out completely if you prefer a pure chocolate cookie.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend, and the cookies should turn out just as delicious.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Look for edges that are set and a soft center. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
Quick Recap
These Ultimate Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are more than just treats; they are a heartwarming experience. With their soft texture, rich chocolate, and minty crunch, they are sure to bring joy to any gathering. They’re an easy and approachable recipe that invites your family and friends into the kitchen to share in the fun.
So, gather your ingredients this weekend, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to bake something magical. You won’t regret it; your taste buds will thank you, and your loved ones will be thrilled! Happy baking!
Ultimate Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 0.75 cups Cocoa Powder (Dutch-processed preferred)
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 0.5 teaspoon Baking Powder
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened) Ensure it's softened at room temperature.
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 cup Brown Sugar (packed)
- 2 large Eggs Room temperature preferred.
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
- 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract
Add-ins
- 2 cups Chocolate Chips or Chunks
- 1 cup Peppermint Candies (Crushed)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Stir in the chocolate chips or chunks and the crushed peppermint candies.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes (or overnight).
Baking
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers are slightly soft.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.