The aroma of freshly baked peppermint chocolate cookies fills the air, wrapping you in a warm embrace of sweet nostalgia. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie with rich chocolate chunks melting in your mouth, followed by a refreshing burst of peppermint that dances on your taste buds. decorating mini Halloween donuts These cookies are not just a treat; they evoke memories of cozy family gatherings and festive celebrations.
Now picture this: it’s December, and you’ve gathered around the kitchen with friends, laughter echoing as you bake these delightful cookies together. cinnamon roll cupcakes recipe The joy of sharing this recipe is as sweet as the cookies themselves. pumpkin pie cupcakes with frosting Just wait until you take that first bite—it’s an experience worth savoring!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These peppermint chocolate cookies are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for even the busiest bakers
- Their rich flavor profile combines the warmth of chocolate with a refreshing minty twist
- Visually stunning with their festive green and brown colors, these cookies are sure to be a hit
- Versatile enough for any occasion, they’re perfect for holiday parties or just because!
When I first baked these peppermint chocolate cookies, my friends devoured them in seconds! Their delighted faces and happy tummies were my best reward. For more inspiration, check out this Christmas mints recipe recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of your cookie dough; opt for unbleached flour for better texture.
- Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder to achieve that deep chocolate flavor we crave.
- Baking Soda: This helps the cookies rise beautifully; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
- Salt: A pinch enhances all flavors; don’t skip it!
- Unsalted Butter: I recommend using room temperature butter for easy creaming with sugars.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create those lovely crispy edges.
- Brown Sugar: For moisture and a slight caramel flavor; light brown is perfect here.
- Eggs: Two large eggs are essential to bind everything together beautifully.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash adds depth; choose pure vanilla for the best flavor.
- Peppermint Extract: This is where the magic happens—go for pure peppermint extract for that holiday essence!
- Chocolate Chips or Chunks: Semi-sweet or dark chocolate works great; use plenty for ooey-gooey goodness! pumpkin chocolate chip bread recipe.
- Candy Cane Pieces (optional): Crushed candy canes add crunch and festive flair; sprinkle some on top before baking!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven : Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you gather your ingredients. This way, it’s hot and ready when your cookie dough is prepared.
Mix Dry Ingredients : In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. The dry mix should look like rich brown sand.
Cream Butter and Sugars : In another bowl, beat room temperature butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks pale and creamy.
Add Eggs and Flavorings : Beat in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Then add vanilla extract and peppermint extract; let those delightful scents fill your kitchen!
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients : Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—no one likes tough cookies!
Add Chocolate Chips : Fold in chocolate chips or chunks gently into the dough using a spatula. Make sure every bite has enough chocolate!
Scoop and Bake : Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set but centers might look slightly underbaked—they’ll firm up as they cool.
These peppermint chocolate cookies will soon become your go-to treat during the holiday season or any day you want to spread some cheer! Each bite brings joy wrapped in chocolatey goodness with a refreshing twist of mint—enjoy!
You Must Know
- Peppermint Chocolate Cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings
- Their rich chocolate flavor paired with a minty twist creates an irresistible treat
- The aroma wafting from the oven will have everyone eagerly waiting to indulge in these festive delights
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To make your peppermint chocolate cookies, start by creaming butter and sugar, then mix in eggs and vanilla. Combine dry ingredients while preheating the oven to 350°F for perfect baking results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chocolate chips for white chocolate or even add crushed peppermint candies for extra crunch. This customization enhances flavor while keeping it festive and fun.
Storing & Reheating
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Reheat them briefly in the microwave for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For optimal sweetness, consider using dark chocolate chips alongside milk chocolate
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking; this helps maintain their shape
- Don’t be shy about adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking to enhance flavors
Creating peppermint chocolate cookies reminds me of my childhood kitchen, where laughter mingled with sweet aromas as we baked together during winter holidays.
FAQ
Can I use peppermint extract instead of candy canes?
Yes, peppermint extract is a great alternative to candy canes in these cookies.
How long do these cookies last?
Peppermint chocolate cookies stay fresh for about one week when stored properly.
Can I freeze peppermint chocolate cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to three months before baking.
Peppermint Chocolate Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the festive joy of peppermint chocolate cookies, where rich chocolate meets refreshing mint in a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. These soft, chewy cookies fill your home with an inviting aroma that beckons loved ones to gather around. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a batch that will evoke sweet memories and smiles at every bite. Bake some today and share the warmth of this classic holiday favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar (light)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp pure peppermint extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Crushed candy cane pieces (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, beat the room temperature butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then incorporate vanilla and peppermint extracts.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips gently.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto lined baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes; edges should be set but centers slightly underbaked.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
