Craving a festive treat that combines rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint? Look no further! These Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are the perfect combination of flavors. With soft, chewy textures and a hint of holiday cheer, they're sure to impress everyone. Whether you're baking for a party or just indulging on your own, these cookies deliver joy in every bite. Get ready, as I guide you through every step of this delicious recipe!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a perfect balance that delights the taste buds.
- Festive Appeal: These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a great addition to any holiday spread.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Customizable: You can easily swap in different chocolates or toppings to make this recipe your own!
Ingredients
To create these delightful Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, you will need:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)
These ingredients blend together to create a rich, chocolatey cookie with a refreshing twist. The butter and sugars give a soft texture, while the cocoa adds depth. The peppermint candies bring a festive touch, making these cookies perfect for any celebration. The optional white chocolate chips can add a creamy flavor, but they are not necessary. You can mix and match as you like!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Mix until it is light and fluffy.
- Add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Then stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Gradually add the dry mix to the butter mixture. Mix until just combined.
Shaping and Baking
- Fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1/2 cup of crushed peppermint candies. If you like, add 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes. The edges should set, but the centers will be soft.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
- While still warm, sprinkle extra crushed peppermint candies on top for a festive touch.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
Softened butter is key for great cookies. It helps the butter mix well with sugars. Soft butter makes the cookie dough light and fluffy. If your butter is too cold, the cookies will be dense.
To avoid overmixing, stop mixing as soon as you combine ingredients. Overmixing can make the cookies tough. Gently fold in chocolate chips and peppermint pieces to keep the dough soft.
Flavor Enhancements
Using high-quality chocolate makes a big difference. Choose semi-sweet chocolate chips that melt well. You can also add dark chocolate for a richer taste.
Experiment with different types of peppermint. Try using peppermint extract for a stronger flavor. You can also use crushed candy canes for a fun crunch.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies taste best warm and fresh. Serve them on a festive plate for special occasions. You can also stack them for a fun cookie tower.
Pair your cookies with milk, hot cocoa, or coffee. The flavors blend well and create a cozy treat. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side adds a sweet touch.
Pro Tips
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking will help the cookies maintain their shape and prevent them from spreading too much in the oven.
- Use Quality Chocolate: For the best flavor, choose high-quality semi-sweet and white chocolate chips. The better the chocolate, the richer your cookies will taste.
- Don’t Overbake: Remove the cookies from the oven when the edges are set but the centers are still soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Experiment with Extracts: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a few drops of peppermint extract to the dough. It will intensify the peppermint taste in your cookies.
Variations
Gluten-Free Options
To make these cookies gluten-free, replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Look for a mix that includes xanthan gum. This will help mimic the texture of regular flour. You may need to adjust the liquid in the recipe slightly. Add a tablespoon of milk or water if the dough feels too dry.
Vegan Adaptations
For a vegan version, swap butter for coconut oil or vegan butter. Use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed with two and a half tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens, then add to the dough. This keeps the flavor rich and the texture soft.
Different Flavor Infusions
Want to switch up the taste? Add a teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty twist. You can also use peppermint extract for a stronger mint flavor. Feel free to mix in nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. Each addition gives your cookies a unique flair.
Storage Info
Storing Cookies
To keep your double chocolate peppermint cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. They will stay tasty at room temperature for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap each cookie in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, they can last up to three months!
Shelf Life
These cookies stay fresh for about seven days at room temperature. If you freeze them, they maintain quality for three months. Check for signs of staleness, such as a hard texture or off smell. If they feel dry or crumbly, it's time to toss them.
Reheating Suggestions
To enjoy your cookies warm again, reheating is key. You can use the microwave or the oven. For the microwave, heat one cookie for about 10-15 seconds. Check and add more time if needed. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes. This method will keep the cookies soft and tasty.
FAQs
What is the best way to crush peppermint candies?
To crush peppermint candies, you can use a few easy methods:
- Plastic bag method: Place candies in a sturdy plastic bag. Use a rolling pin to crush them. This keeps mess to a minimum.
- Food processor method: Add candies to a food processor. Pulse until you get small pieces, but don’t make dust.
- Hammer method: Wrap candies in a towel. Gently tap them with a hammer to crush them. This is fun and effective.
These methods help keep your kitchen clean while making perfect peppermint pieces for your cookies.
Can I make the dough ahead of time and freeze it?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time! Here’s how to freeze cookie dough:
- Prepare the dough: Follow the recipe until just before baking.
- Shape the dough: Use a cookie scoop to form dough balls.
- Freeze the dough: Place the balls on a baking sheet. Freeze until firm, about an hour.
- Store the dough: Transfer frozen dough balls to a freezer bag. Label with the date. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months.
When you’re ready to bake, no need to thaw. Just bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
If you need an egg substitute, here are a few good options:
- Flaxseed meal: Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes to thicken.
- Applesauce: Use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce for each egg. This adds moisture and sweetness.
- Mashed banana: Replace one egg with 1/4 cup of mashed banana. This will give a slight banana flavor.
These substitutes work well but may change the texture a bit. They still make tasty cookies!
In this post, I walked through the key ingredients and easy steps to make delicious peppermint chocolate cookies. I shared tips for texture and flavor, plus fun variations for gluten-free or vegan options. Storing and enjoying your cookies is just as important as making them. Remember, adding your own touch can make this recipe truly yours. Enjoy baking these tasty treats, and don't hesitate to experiment! You'll be happy you did.
