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Who doesn’t love cookies, especially during the festive season? Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, chewy Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookie, with rich chocolate flavor perfectly balanced by a hint of refreshing peppermint. These cookies are not just a delightful treat, but they’re also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for sharing, gifting, or indulging on cozy nights, these cookies will make your taste buds dance!
There’s something magical about the combination of chocolate and peppermint. It’s a flavor profile that screams holidays while inviting warmth and cheer. Have you ever been in the mood for something that feels special yet is simple to bake? Look no further! This Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies recipe is all that and more.
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Key Benefits of Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
When you think about cookies that combine blissful chocolate decadence with a refreshing peppermint twist, you can’t help but smile. Here are some key benefits that make these cookies a must-try:
Why you’ll love this recipe:
- Decadent Richness: Every bite offers a delightful chocolate flavor that chocolate lovers crave.
- Peppermint Twist: The peppermint extract adds a refreshing finish, perfect for the holidays.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
- Versatile Treat: Great for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or just a sweet indulgence.
- Customizable: Add nuts, or use different types of chocolate to suit your preferences.
- Festive Appeal: Their unique flavors and colors add a fun touch to any holiday dessert table.
What truly makes these cookies stand out is their originality. The rich, decadent chocolate is complemented beautifully by the bright, minty flavor of peppermint. Whether it’s holiday time or just a cozy night in, these cookies capture the essence of festive cheer and comfort food at its best.
When I think about cookies, I want something that feels indulgent but isn’t complicated to prepare. These Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies fit this bill perfectly. Customize them as you wish, but know they’ll always be a hit!
Ingredients for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Before diving into the baking process, let’s go over the ingredients you’ll need to whip up these delightful cookies.
Complete ingredient list with measurements:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (optional)
Substitutes and alternatives:
- Butter: You could use coconut oil or vegan margarine for a dairy-free option.
- Sugar: For a healthier version, try coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like Stevia.
- Flour: Whole wheat flour can replace all-purpose flour for a nuttier flavor and more nutrition.
- Eggs: Substitute with flaxseed meal mixed with water or unsweetened applesauce for a vegan option.
- Chocolate Chips: Use milk chocolate or white chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter cookie.
How to Make Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies – Step-by-Step Directions
Let’s get right into the fun part – baking your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies! Follow these detailed steps, and you’re on your way to cookie perfection.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential to ensure even baking of your cookies.
Step 2: Cream Together the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This can take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer.
Step 3: Beat in the Eggs
Once your butter and sugar are well combined, beat in the eggs one at a time. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts, mixing until everything is well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps ensure even distribution when combined with the wet mixture.
Step 5: Blend Dry Ingredients with Wet Mixture
Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix it until just combined; don’t overmix, as this can affect the cookie texture.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Peppermint Candies
Carefully fold in the dark chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies if you’re using them. This extra touch will give the cookies a delightful crunch and burst of flavor.
Step 7: Prepare Your Baking Sheets
Prepare your ungreased baking sheets. You can also opt for parchment paper if you prefer. This helps to prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Step 8: Shape the Dough
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop generous amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart. This ensures they have room to spread while baking.
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. They may look slightly undercooked, but they’ll firm up as they cool.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy!
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies warm or at room temperature!
Serving Suggestions for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Now that your cookies are done and cooling, let’s talk about when to serve them.
Best occasions to serve this dish:
- Family meals during the holidays
- Office parties or gatherings
- Cookie exchange events
- Cozy nights in with loved ones
Pair your cookies with one of the following:
- Drinks: Hot cocoa, peppermint tea, or coffee
- Sauces: Chocolate syrup or caramel drizzle
- Toppings: Whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar
- Sides: A bowl of fresh berries or a fruit platter
These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion!
Storing Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Properly
To enjoy your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies over time, follow these best storage practices:
Best storage practices:
- Room temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Refrigerator: You can store them in the fridge, but this may change the texture slightly.
Reheating and freezing tips:
- To reheat: Place cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will warm them without making them soggy.
- To freeze: Stack layers of cookies in an airtight container separated by parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature.
Tips & Tricks for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
As you embark on your cookie-baking journey, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
Mistakes to avoid:
- Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, chewy texture we want.
- Baking at too high a temperature: Always ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for the best results.
- Skipping cooling time: Allow cookies to cool properly on the baking sheet to finish cooking and retain their shape.
Extra tips for better results:
- Chill the dough: If you have time, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps to enhance flavors and reduce spreading.
- Use high-quality chocolate: The better the chocolate, the better the flavor! Use good quality chocolate chips or bars for folding into your dough.
- Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch, or even a drizzle of melted white chocolate on top.
Recipe Variations of Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Get creative! Here are a few variations you can try:
Creative twists:
- Nuts: Add chopped nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for a delightful crunch.
- Spices: Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice twist.
- Festive spins: Use holiday-themed cookie cutters to create fun shapes.
Dietary adjustments:
- Vegan: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
- Dairy-free: Ensure your butter substitute and chocolate are dairy-free.
Conclusion about Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
In summary, these Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies combine rich chocolate flavor with a fresh peppermint twist, delivering an indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Their ease of preparation makes them a favorite for novice and experienced bakers alike. So why not give them a try, share them with family and friends, and bring some warmth and joy to your gatherings?
Don’t forget to savor the experience, share your results, and enjoy these delightful cookies!
FAQs about Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
What if it doesn’t turn out right?
If your cookies are too dry, you may have overbaked them or used too much flour. Try to accurately measure your ingredients next time and keep an eye on the baking time.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for a few days or freeze it for longer storage. Just thaw before baking.
What are the best ingredient substitutions?
For a dairy-free version, use a vegan butter substitute. For gluten-free cookies, opt for a gluten-free flour blend.
How long can it be stored?
Once cooled and stored in an airtight container, these cookies will stay fresh for about one week at room temperature or up to three months in the freezer.
Can I use store-bought dough or crust?
Yes, using premade dough is a quick alternative, although it won’t have the same freshness and flavor as homemade.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids will love helping to bake and decorate these cookies. Plus, the final product is deliciously kid-approved.
Can I make it allergen-free?
You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use allergen-free chocolate chips to create a version that avoids common allergens.
Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Add-ins
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies (optional)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in the dark chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies.
- Prepare baking sheets with parchment paper or leave ungreased.
- Drop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.
Baking
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are set but centers are still soft.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.