Introduction to Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
If you're looking to elevate your cookie game this season, double chocolate peppermint cookies are an absolute must-try. These delightful treats combine rich dark chocolate with the refreshing zing of peppermint, creating a flavor explosion that’s perfect for the holidays. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie filled with melty chocolate chips and a hint of festive peppermint—what’s not to love?
Why are Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies a must-try this season?
This season is all about comfort and indulgence, and these cookies deliver just that. Not only do they satisfy your sweet tooth, but they also infuse a festive spirit into every bite. The contrasting textures—crispy edges paired with a gooey center—add to their charm, making them an irresistible addition to your dessert table.
Additionally, double chocolate peppermint cookies are super easy to whip up. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary adventure, this recipe comes together quickly, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of friends and family. Plus, the inviting aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake is guaranteed to spark joy.
Make this holiday season memorable with these delectable cookies! Check out our recipe here for a step-by-step guide to creating your own batch.
Ingredients for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
When cravings for something sweet and festive strike, these double chocolate peppermint cookies are THE answer! With a delectable chewy center and melty chocolate chips, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering. To whip up a batch of these delights, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 ¼ cups (156 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled (try this guide for perfect measuring).
- ½ cup (40 g) cocoa powder, preferably Dutch process for a richer flavor.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder and ½ teaspoon baking soda to help them rise—don’t skip these!
- ½ teaspoon salt to balance the sweetness.
- ¾ cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened for creamy texture.
- ¾ cup (165 g) light brown sugar (packed) and ¼ cup (50 g) granulated white sugar for that perfect sweetness.
- 2 egg yolks, at room temperature for better mixing.
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract and 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract for that festive flavor.
- ½ cup (100 g) peppermint chips (Andes are great!) and ¼ cup (50 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips for extra chocolatey goodness.
- 2 tablespoon crushed candy canes for topping, optional but highly recommended!
With everything ready, you’re set for a delicious baking adventure! For more tips on measuring flour, check out this detailed guide on baking flour. Happy baking!
Step-by-step Preparation of Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Baking double chocolate peppermint cookies is a delightful way to infuse your kitchen with the scents of the season and satisfy your sweet tooth. Follow these simple steps to create cookies that are rich, chewy, and slathered with holiday spirit!
Prepare your baking station
Before diving into the mixing bowl, it's essential to get your baking station ready. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will not only make your cleanup easier but help prevent the cookies from sticking. Gather all your ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, butter, sugars, egg yolks, peppermint extract, and your chips. Having everything on hand makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Cream the butter and sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with both sugars—light brown and granulated. Using an electric mixer, cream them together for about two minutes. You want the mixture to be light and fluffy, which incorporates air and gives your cookies that perfect chewy texture. This foundational step sets the stage for the rest of your double chocolate peppermint cookies, so don’t rush through it!
Add eggs and extracts
Next, add your room-temperature egg yolks along with peppermint extract and vanilla bean paste or extract. Mix on medium speed for two minutes, allowing the mixture to turn pale in color and fluffy. These ingredients not only enhance the flavor profile but also contribute to the moistness of your cookies.
Mix in the dry ingredients
Now it's time to blend the dry ingredients! Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. It's crucial to measure your flour accurately (check out tips on proper measuring in baking!) to ensure the correct consistency. Mixing until just combined is key here—this helps keep your cookies chewy and not cakey.
Incorporate chocolate and peppermint chips
With the dough ready, it’s time to add the stars of the show: your peppermint chips and semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir them in until evenly incorporated. This is where the double chocolate magic happens! The cookies will be bursting with chocolate decadence and a refreshing peppermint twist in every bite.
Scoop, shape, and bake
Using a cookie scoop, form 18 balls of dough and place them two inches apart on your prepared baking sheets. Bake in your preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes—10 for that chewy center you crave, and 12 if you prefer a bit more crispness around the edges. When they're done, let them cool on the baking sheets for a couple of minutes and then transfer them to a cooling rack.
Once cooled, feel free to sprinkle some crushed candy canes on top for an extra festive touch. Enjoy your double chocolate peppermint cookies with a warm cup of cocoa, and savor every delicious bite!
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days, but we doubt they'll last that long! Happy baking!
Variations on Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Minty White Chocolate Version
If you’re a fan of double chocolate peppermint cookies but crave a change, try adding white chocolate! Simply swap out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate chips, and toss in some crushed peppermint candies for that refreshing crunch. The creamy sweetness of the white chocolate beautifully balances the rich cocoa, creating a delightful twist that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Gluten-Free Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
For those looking for a gluten-free option, don’t worry; you can still enjoy these decadent cookies! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for the right texture. The combination of dark cocoa and peppermint will still shine through, and you won't even miss the gluten. Who knew chocolate peppermint goodness could be so inclusive?
For further inspiration, check out the Gluten-Free Baking Guide here and find more ways to modify your favorite recipes!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Baking double chocolate peppermint cookies can be a delightful experience, especially during the holiday season! Here are some handy tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfect every time:
- Ingredient Temperature Matters: Use room temperature eggs and butter for a smoother batter, creating delightful chewy centers.
- Measuring Flour: Be sure to spoon and level your flour rather than scooping directly from the bag. This prevents overly dense cookies.
- Cooling is Key: Let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a rack. This helps maintain their shape.
Considering these tips will lead you to cookie perfection! For more about baking techniques, check out King Arthur Baking.
Serving Suggestions for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
When it comes to enjoying your double chocolate peppermint cookies, the options are as delightful as the cookies themselves! Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your treat:
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Pair with Hot Chocolate: The rich, chocolatey flavor matches perfectly with a warm mug of hot cocoa. Perfect for those cozy nights!
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Festive Gift Idea: Package these cookies in a cute tin and share them with friends or colleagues. The festive peppermint makes them a perfect holiday gift.
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Ice Cream Sandwiches: Sandwich a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent dessert that screams winter fun.
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Garnish with Whipped Cream: Enjoy with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkling of crushed peppermint candies for an extra touch.
With these suggestions, your double chocolate peppermint cookies will surely impress!
Time Breakdown for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Preparation Time
Getting started is easy! You'll need 15 minutes to whip up the dough for these delightful double chocolate peppermint cookies. This includes gathering your ingredients and mixing them to perfection.
Cooking Time
Baking these cookies takes just 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them! Bake for 10 minutes for a chewier center or 12 minutes if you prefer a bit of crispiness.
Total Time
In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a batch of warm, chocolatey treats ready to enjoy! Perfect for your holiday celebrations or a cozy night in. Want to dive deeper into the science of baking? Check out this guide on cookie making. Happy baking!
Nutritional Facts for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Calories
These double chocolate peppermint cookies pack about 150 calories each, making them a delightful treat that's not too indulgent. Enjoy them guilt-free as a sweet snack or dessert!
Sugar Content
With roughly 12 grams of sugar per cookie, these cookies offer a satisfying sweetness that pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint flavors. It's a perfect balance for a holiday treat!
Fat Content
Each cookie contains about 7 grams of fat, primarily from the butter and chocolate. While it's important to keep an eye on fat intake, these delicious cookies are best enjoyed in moderation. After all, it's the holiday season! For a closer look at how fat impacts your diet, check out this healthline article.
In summary, these delicious cookies can be both a festive indulgence and a manageable treat, especially if you share with friends! Who's ready to bake?
FAQs about Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
How can I enhance the peppermint flavor?
If you’re a peppermint lover, consider adding more peppermint extract or incorporating additional crushed candy canes into the dough. For an even richer taste, you might also try using peppermint-flavored baking chips alongside the standard peppermint chips. Get creative with different brands—you'll be amazed by how they can elevate your double chocolate peppermint cookies!
What’s the best way to store these cookies?
To keep your double chocolate peppermint cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you're worried about them getting stale, placing a piece of bread in the container can help maintain moisture. Alternatively, layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze the dough for later use?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for your double chocolate peppermint cookies. Simply scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can be baked directly from the freezer—just add an extra minute or two to the baking time!
Conclusion on Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
In summary, these double chocolate peppermint cookies are a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate with a refreshing hint of peppermint. With their chewy centers and melty chocolate chips, they’re perfect for any occasion. Indulge in these cookies, and share them with friends and family for a joyous experience! For more cookie inspiration, check out this resource on different cookie types.
Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- electric mixer
- baking sheets
- parchment paper
- Cooling Rack
Ingredients
- 1.25 cups all-purpose flour spooned and leveled
- 0.5 cups cocoa powder Dutch process
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.75 cups unsalted butter softened
- 0.75 cups light brown sugar packed
- 0.25 cups granulated white sugar
- 2 egg yolks at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract
- 0.5 cups peppermint chips Andes
- 0.25 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoon crushed candy canes for topping, optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350℉ (175℃). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Add softened, unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar to a large bowl. Cream the butter and sugars with an electric mixer for two minutes, or until light and fluffy.
- To the creamed butter and sugars add the egg yolks, peppermint extract and vanilla. Mix on medium speed for two minutes, or until the mixture is pale in color and fluffy.
- Add in the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt and mix until combined.
- Add in the peppermint chips and chocolate chips and mix just until incorporated.
- Scoop the dough into 18 balls and arrange them two inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. (10 for chewier centers, 12 for crispier edges.)
- After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for two minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool for 10 minutes. Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the cookies if you wish and then serve!
- Store left overs in an airtight container for up to three days.
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