Introduction
Chocolate peppermint cookies are the perfect blend of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint. This delightful treat is ideal for the holiday season or any time you crave a festive touch. With a soft and chewy texture, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– All-purpose flour: 1 ¾ cups
– Unsweetened cocoa powder: ¾ cup
– Baking soda: ½ teaspoon
– Baking powder: ½ teaspoon
– Salt: ½ teaspoon
– Butter (softened): 1 cup
– Granulated sugar: 1 cup
– Brown sugar: ½ cup
– Eggs: 2 large
– Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
– Peppermint extract: 1 teaspoon
– Chocolate chips: 1 cup
– Crushed peppermint candies: ½ cup
Prep Time
The preparation time for the chocolate peppermint cookies is approximately 15 minutes. This allows you to gather all the ingredients and mix them together to create the cookie dough.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking time for these cookies is about 10-12 minutes in the oven. With a prep time of 15 minutes, the total time to make these delicious cookies is around 30 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside for later use.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together soft butter and sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract for flavor enhancement.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until everything is just combined. Do not overmix to maintain a tender texture.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Peppermint
Gently fold in the chocolate chips and peppermint extract to the cookie dough, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
Step 7: Scoop Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers still look soft. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
Step 9: Cool Completely
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This will ensure the texture remains chewy.
Notes
Note 1: Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week for optimal freshness.
Note 2: Peppermint Adjustment
Adjust the amount of peppermint extract to your preference. If you prefer a stronger flavor, feel free to increase the amount slightly.
Note 3: Chocolate Varieties
You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark, milk, or white chocolate chips to cater to different taste preferences.
Note 4: Chilling the Dough
If you prefer your cookies to spread less during baking, chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes before scooping and baking.
Cook techniques
Chilling the dough
Chilling the cookie dough helps firm it up, which can lead to a thicker cookie. It also helps in developing flavors as the ingredients meld together.
Proper measuring
Accurate measuring of ingredients is crucial for achieving the right texture and flavor in cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for dry ingredients to ensure accuracy.
Using room temperature ingredients
Bring butter and eggs to room temperature before mixing. This allows for better incorporation and helps create a uniform dough.
Mixing the dough
Avoid over-mixing once the flour is added. This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the flour is incorporated.
Baking in batches
Bake cookies in batches to ensure even baking. Overcrowding the baking sheet can lead to uneven heat distribution and prevent cookies from spreading properly.
FAQ
Can I use different types of chocolate in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute with dark chocolate, white chocolate, or any chocolate of your preference.
How do I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
What can I substitute for peppermint extract?
You can use vanilla extract or omit the extract entirely for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked, as they will continue to firm up while cooling.
Conclusion
The chocolate peppermint cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly blends rich chocolate flavors with a refreshing hint of peppermint. Their chewy texture and festive appeal make them ideal for any occasion, especially during the holiday season. These cookies are sure to become a favorite among family and friends.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Hazelnut Cookies
Combine the richness of chocolate with the nutty flavor of hazelnuts for a decadent twist.
Peppermint Bark Cookies
Merge the essence of peppermint bark with cookie dough for a festive and visually striking dessert.
Double Chocolate Mint Brownies
Intensify the chocolate flavor by preparing fudgy brownies infused with peppermint for a rich dessert.
White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Create a sweeter variation by incorporating white chocolate chips along with peppermint for a lovely contrast.
Chocolate Chip Peppermint Muffins
Transform the cookie recipe into fluffy muffins by adding chocolate chips and peppermint extract for a breakfast treat.
