Decadent Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: Irresistible Holiday Treats

Indulge in the magic of the holiday season with a batch of irresistible Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. These festive treats are a delightful blend of rich chocolate and cool peppermint, perfectly capturing the essence of December in every bite. Imagine sinking your teeth into a thick, chewy cookie made with Dutch-processed cocoa and a hint of minty freshness from peppermint extract. The addition of crushed candy cane on top adds a satisfying crunch and a pop of color, making these cookies a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.

The story behind these Chocolate Peppermint Cookies is one of accidental genius, born out of a need to use up leftover candy canes and a craving for something sweet. Despite their humble origins, these cookies have quickly become a holiday staple in many kitchens, including mine. They are a quick and easy treat to whip up, perfect for last-minute gatherings, cookie swaps, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace. Whether you’re a seasoned baker looking to impress or a busy parent in need of a festive treat, these cookies are sure to bring joy and warmth to your holiday season.

Quick Benefits

• Perfect holiday treat with a cooling peppermint finish
• Quick and easy to make, ideal for busy baking seasons
• Travel well and great for gifting
• Festive and delicious without needing intricate decorations

Why You’ll Love This Decadent Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: Irresistible Holiday Treats Recipe

• The combination of rich Dutch-processed cocoa and refreshing peppermint extract creates a decadent and festive flavor profile that embodies the essence of the holiday season.
• The cookies are thick, chewy, and deeply chocolatey, appealing to both chocolate lovers and mint enthusiasts.
• Quick and easy to make, these cookies are perfect for busy holiday baking schedules, requiring only ten minutes to mix.
• Topped with crushed candy cane, the cookies offer a delightful crunch and a pop of festive color, making them visually appealing for holiday gatherings or cookie exchanges.
• The cookies have a universal appeal, impressing even the most competitive bakers and winning over skeptics with their irresistible flavor.
• They are ideal for gifting due to their festive appearance and ability to travel well, making them a thoughtful and delicious treat for friends, family, or colleagues.
• These cookies provide a simple yet impressive option for those looking to participate in holiday baking without the need for intricate decorating skills, making them a stress-free choice for both beginners and experienced bakers.

Ingredients for Decadent Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: Irresistible Holiday Treats

For the Dry Ingredients

• 1⅓ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ⅓ cup unsweetened Dutch-processed cocoa powder

For the Wet Ingredients

• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1½ tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• ⅔ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature

For the Mix-ins

• 3 to 4 tbsp crushed candy cane for topping (optional)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

How to Make Decadent Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: Irresistible Holiday Treats

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using a hand mixer on medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Extracts

Combine the whole egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract in a bowl. Mix until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients on low speed until just mixed, resulting in a thick dough.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Carefully mix the chocolate chips into the dough until evenly combined.

Step 7: Scoop the Dough

Use a 2½ tablespoon cookie scoop to drop 8 to 9 dough balls onto a prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart for spreading.

Step 8: Bake the First Batch

Bake in the center of the oven for 10-12 minutes until the center of each cookie is set but slightly underdone.

Step 9: Add Candy Cane Topping

Once the cookies are out of the oven, sprinkle crushed candy cane over the tops while they are still warm.

Step 10: Cool on Pan

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 3 to 4 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 11: Bake Remaining Batches

Continue scooping, baking, and cooling the dough until all is used. Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy.

Storage Tips

Once you have baked the delicious Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, ensure they are completely cooled before storing them. To maintain their freshness and chewy texture, it is best to store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. You can layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

If you plan to store the cookies for an extended period or if you have made a large batch, you can freeze them for longer freshness. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, placing parchment paper between layers. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature or reheat them in the oven for a freshly baked taste.

These Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are perfect for gifting during the holidays. To gift them, arrange the cookies in a decorative tin or cookie box, layering them with festive tissue paper or parchment paper to keep them secure. Adding a ribbon or a gift tag will give your homemade treats a personal touch that your friends and family will appreciate. Remember to store the gifted cookies in a cool, dry place to maintain their quality until they are enjoyed.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to make substitutions for this Chocolate Peppermint Cookies recipe, there are a few options you can consider. If you don’t have Dutch-processed cocoa powder on hand, you can use natural cocoa powder instead, but keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different. Additionally, if you are out of peppermint extract, you could use mint extract as a substitute, although the final flavor profile may vary a little.

For those looking to make these cookies a bit healthier, you can swap some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. You could also experiment with using a plant-based butter alternative for the unsalted butter to make these cookies vegan-friendly. Just be aware that these substitutions may alter the texture and taste slightly, so it’s a good idea to do a small test batch first.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Chocolate Peppermint Cookies with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra crushed candy cane on top for an extra festive touch. The combination of warm cookies, cool mint, and fluffy cream creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

For a fun twist, try sandwiching a scoop of peppermint ice cream between two of these cookies to create a decadent ice cream sandwich. Roll the edges in mini chocolate chips or more crushed candy cane for a beautiful and tasty holiday treat that will impress even the most competitive bakers like Linda!

FAQs for Decadent Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: Irresistible Holiday Treats

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed cocoa powder?

Yes, you can use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed cocoa powder in this recipe. However, keep in mind that Dutch-processed cocoa has a smoother flavor and darker color, which may enhance the overall taste and appearance of the cookies.

Can I omit the peppermint extract if I don’t like mint flavor?

Yes, you can omit the peppermint extract if you prefer not to have a minty flavor in your cookies. Simply increase the amount of vanilla extract to compensate for the omitted peppermint extract.

Can I freeze the cookie dough to bake later?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for these Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. Shape the dough into individual cookie balls, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cookie dough balls to a resealable bag or airtight container. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen cookie dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

As you finish baking up a batch of these delightful Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, take a moment to savor the festive aroma wafting through your kitchen. The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint is a true holiday delight that is sure to bring joy to all who taste them. Whether you’re sharing these cookies with friends and family or simply enjoying them with a cup of hot cocoa by the fire, these treats are bound to spread warmth and cheer.

So go ahead, embrace the holiday spirit and whip up a batch of these Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. Let the sweet indulgence of chocolate and the invigorating kick of peppermint fill your home with the magic of the season. Wishing you happy baking and a joyful holiday season filled with love, laughter, and of course, plenty of delicious treats like these Chocolate Peppermint Cookies!