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.
