How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: A Festive Treat That Melts in Your Mouth

Chocolate and peppermint is a classic holiday flavor combination, and these chocolate peppermint cookies are the perfect way to enjoy it. They’re rich, chocolatey, and have a refreshing peppermint kick that will leave you wanting more. The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make at home, even if you’re a baking novice. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let’s create some magic in the kitchen!

The Story Behind the Flavor

Did you know that the combination of chocolate and peppermint has been a beloved treat for centuries? It dates back to the 17th century when Europeans first started using peppermint oil to flavor chocolate. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that chocolate peppermint candies, as we know them today, became popular.

One of the most famous chocolate peppermint treats is the candy cane, which originated in Germany in the 1600s. Legend has it that a choirmaster gave his young singers white sugar sticks bent into the shape of a shepherd’s crook to keep them quiet during the long Christmas Eve service. These early candy canes eventually evolved into the red and white striped treats flavored with peppermint that we know and love today.

Ingredients for Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Here’s what you’ll need to make about two dozen of these delicious cookies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (about 15-20 candy canes)
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Optional Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup white chocolate chips (for drizzling)
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (for a stronger peppermint flavor)

Tools You’ll Need

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Rolling pin (optional)
• Cookie cutters (optional)

Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Ingredients

Let’s Bake Some Cookies!

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugars until light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed, resulting in perfectly textured cookies.

Step 3: Gradual Incorporation

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can make the cookies tough.

Step 4: The Peppermint Twist

1. Gently fold in the crushed peppermint candies and chocolate chips. It’s best to do this by hand to avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Chilling Time

1. Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and allows the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Shaping Your Cookies

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Scoop out rounded tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. If desired, you can flatten the balls slightly with the palm of your hand.
3. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.

Step 7: Baking to Perfection

1. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are set and the tops are just slightly cracked.

Step 8: Cooling and Decoration (Optional)

1. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. While the cookies are still warm, you can gently press a few extra chocolate chips or white chocolate chips into the tops for decoration.

Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Baking

Tips and Tricks for the Best Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature before you start baking. This will help them incorporate more easily into the dough, resulting in a smoother texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to tough cookies. Mix the ingredients just until combined.
• Chilling is Key: Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven and allows the flavors to meld.
• Candy Cane Variations: For a fun twist, experiment with different flavors of crushed candy canes, such as cherry or green apple.
• Freezing for Later: These cookies freeze beautifully! Simply bake as directed, let cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I use peppermint extract instead of crushed candy canes?

Yes, you can use 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract in place of the crushed candy canes. Start with 1/4 teaspoon and add more to taste. Keep in mind that peppermint extract is potent, so a little goes a long way.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! The cookie dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, let the dough thaw in the refrigerator overnight before proceeding with the recipe.

What can I serve with these cookies?

These cookies are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a glass of cold milk, a cup of hot cocoa, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Conclusion

There you have it – a simple yet utterly delightful chocolate peppermint cookies recipe that’s perfect for the holidays or any occasion that calls for a little chocolate and peppermint magic.

These cookies are sure to become a new family favorite. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. So gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and let the baking begin! Don’t forget to share your baking experience and photos with us in the comments below. Happy baking!

Looking for more delicious cookie recipes? Check out our guide on how to make black and white cookies for another classic treat, or explore the refreshing flavors of our mint cookie recipe. If you’re a fan of chocolate and buttery goodness, our chocolate shortbread recipe is a must-try! For something a little different, why not venture into Estonian cuisine with our munavalgekook recipe? And if you can’t get enough of that chocolate-mint combination, our chocolate mint cookies offer a delightful twist on today’s recipe. Happy baking!