As the aroma of rich chocolate and peppermint fills your kitchen, the holiday spirit comes alive with every moment spent baking. These Chewy Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are not just a festive treat; they’re a celebration of warmth and cheer wrapped in each delightful bite. With their soft, chewy centers and melty chocolate chips, this quick recipe is designed for both seasoned bakers and anyone looking to whip up something special in under 30 minutes. They’re perfect for cookie exchanges or simply to enjoy with loved ones while sipping hot cocoa. Ready to spread some holiday joy? Let’s dive into crafting these irresistible cookies together!
Why Are These Cookies a Must-Make?
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite bursts with rich chocolate intertwined with refreshing peppermint, creating a festive experience.
Quick and Easy: In under 30 minutes, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies without the hassle.
Perfect for Sharing: Great for holiday gatherings or cookie exchanges, these treats bring everyone together to celebrate.
Chewy Delight: The soft centers paired with crisp edges ensure a delightful texture in every mouthful.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to experiment—try replacing peppermint chips with white chocolate or add nuts for an extra crunch! Embrace the spirit with these Triple Chocolate Mousse or Twisted Christmas Cookies to keep the festivities going!
Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides essential structure; spoon and level for accuracy.
- Cocoa Powder (Dutch Process) – Deepens chocolate flavor for a rich taste.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Essential leavening agents that help the cookies rise perfectly.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolatey goodness.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and richness; ensure it’s softened for optimal blending.
- Light Brown Sugar – Delivers sweetness and moisture to promote that chewy texture.
- Granulated White Sugar – Provides sweetness and adds crispness to the edges of the cookies.
- Egg Yolks – Bind the ingredients together and add extra richness; use room temperature for best results.
- Peppermint Extract – Infuses cookies with a refreshing mint flavor that screams holiday cheer!
- Vanilla Bean Paste or Extract – Adds warm, aromatic sweetness to complement the chocolate.
- Peppermint Chips (Andes) – Cute bursts of mint flavor in every bite; use chocolate chips as a substitute if preferred.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Elevates the chocolate experience with melty goodness in each cookie.
Optional Toppings
- Crushed Candy Canes – Add to the tops after baking for a festive finish and delightful crunch.
Feel the holiday spirit envelop you as you gather these ingredients for your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure easy cookie removal later. This step is crucial as it prepares the environment for even baking, leading to perfectly chewy Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated white sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it’s light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. The texture should be creamy with a pale color, which indicates you’ve incorporated enough air for a tender cookie.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, add the room temperature egg yolks, peppermint extract, and vanilla bean paste to the creamed mixture. Continue mixing for an additional 2 minutes on medium speed, ensuring everything is well combined and fluffy. This step infuses your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies with rich flavor and a delightful minty aroma.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix on low speed until just combined, taking care not to overmix. The dough should come together and appear slightly crumbly but cohesive. This mixture forms the foundation of your cookies, balancing the chocolate and mint flavors beautifully.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate and Peppermint Chips
Gently fold in the peppermint chips and semi-sweet chocolate chips with a spatula until evenly distributed. This adds delightful bursts of chocolate and refreshing peppermint to each cookie. Be cautious not to overmix, as you want to maintain the integrity of your dough while ensuring a generous amount of chips per cookie.
Step 6: Scoop the Cookie Dough
Using a medium cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough into 18 balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring there’s about 2 inches of space between each dough ball to allow for spreading. This spacing ensures your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies have room to expand while baking.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. For softer centers, aim for 10 minutes, while 12 minutes yields crisper edges. Keep an eye on them—when the edges look set and the centers are slightly puffy, they’re ready to come out.
Step 8: Cool the Cookies
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to set properly and makes them easier to handle. If desired, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for added holiday flair while they’re still warm!
Expert Tips for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
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Measure Flour Carefully: Avoid dry cookies by spooning and leveling your flour; using a kitchen scale can enhance accuracy.
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Butter Temperature Matters: Ensure your unsalted butter is fully softened to achieve that perfect creamy texture for your cookie dough.
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Proper Egg Preparation: Use room temperature egg yolks for the best emulsion, helping your dough bind beautifully and retain a chewy quality.
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Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Bake for 10-12 minutes, monitoring closely; slightly underbaking results in softer, chewier centers typical of a great Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.
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Cooling Technique: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them; this prevents them from breaking apart while setting.
How to Store and Freeze Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Fridge: For extended freshness, store cookies in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 1 week, but be aware they may lose some chewiness.
Freezer: Freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 weeks. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for a delightful treat anytime.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a warm oven (about 300°F or 150°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore that fresh-baked texture, and enjoy the indulgence of your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies!
Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful cookies and create a version that suits your taste buds!
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Additional Chocolate: Substitute peppermint chips with more chocolate chips for an all-chocolate experience. It’s a lush, decadent twist that chocolate lovers will savor.
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Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts into the mix for crunch. The combination of soft cookies with nutty texture gives another delicious layer of flavor!
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White Chocolate Twist: Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a creamier taste. The sweet creaminess mixes beautifully with the peppermint for a delightful flavor explosion!
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Spicy Peppermint: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne for a kick! The warmth balances the refreshing mint, crafting a unique and intriguing cookie experience.
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Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free treat. You won’t miss the creaminess, and it’ll still retain that melt-in-your-mouth texture!
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Chocolate Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cookies for a lavish finish. It adds a beautiful look and an extra hit of chocolatey goodness.
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Festive Sprinkle: Instead of candy canes, use colorful sprinkles to make them even more festive for parties! They’ll catch the eye and butter up everyone’s holiday spirit.
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Candy Cane Mix: Use crushed peppermint candies instead of candy canes for a bolder minty flavor through the batter, creating a more intense peppermint experience.
With these fun variations, your baking adventures can extend beyond the traditional! Discover new holiday favorites alongside these cookies, like delightful Chocolate Tuxedo Cake or even some fun Twix Style Cookies for diverse treats that will delight the whole family!
What to Serve with Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Let the festive fun continue as you create a delightful spread to accompany your sweet cookies!
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Creamy Hot Chocolate: This rich beverage enhances the holiday spirit perfectly, making every cookie bite even more indulgent. Consider adding a sprinkle of marshmallows for a cozy twist!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla melts beautifully alongside the warm cookies, balancing out the rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint flavors with its smooth texture.
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Peppermint Bark: Match the flavor theme with this crunchy treat. The double layer of chocolate combined with crushed peppermint intensifies the festive vibe.
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Gingerbread Men: Offering a spiced contrast, these classic cookies bring a bit of nostalgia while providing a lovely crunch against the gooeyness of your cookies.
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Fruit & Nut Platter: Fresh fruits like slices of apple or pear add brightness and balance the richness, while assorted nuts offer a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the chewy cookies.
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Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or a shot of espresso cuts through the sweetness and enhances the deep chocolate flavors wonderfully—perfect for those who appreciate a balanced treat!
Creating this holiday feast around your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies will surely spread joy and deliciousness to everyone who gathers around the table.
Make Ahead Options
These Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This method helps prevent the batter from drying out and keeps the flavors fresh. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets and let it sit for about 10 minutes to come to room temperature before baking. This way, you’ll achieve those delightful chewy centers and crisp edges just as if they were freshly made!
Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ingredients for my cookies?
Absolutely! Selecting ingredients at their peak freshness is vital. When choosing all-purpose flour, ensure it’s not close to its expiration date. For cocoa powder, look for a rich dark color without clumps, as fresh cocoa adds depth. When it comes to peppermint extract, I prefer pure extracts for a cleaner taste. Always aim for unsalted butter that is soft but not melted to achieve the perfect creamy texture in your dough.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Very! To keep your delicious Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their soft, chewy texture. If you want to enjoy them later, you can place them in the fridge for up to a week; however, they may lose some of their signature chewiness.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Of course! Freezing the dough is a fantastic way to have freshly baked cookies at your fingertips. After scooping the dough into balls, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply add an extra minute or two to the baking time without needing to thaw them first.
What should I do if my cookies turn out flat?
No worries, this can happen sometimes! If your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are flat, it might be that your butter was too soft or melted before mixing. Make sure to use softened butter, not melted—room temperature is key! Another common culprit can be incorrect flour measurement; if too little flour is used, the cookies may not hold their shape. Using a kitchen scale is a great way to ensure precision!
Are these cookies suitable for pets or anyone with allergies?
It’s important to be cautious! Unfortunately, these Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies aren’t suitable for pets as chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats. Furthermore, if you or your loved ones have allergies, be mindful of potential allergens such as eggs and gluten found in the cookie’s ingredients. Always check labels when selecting ingredients and consider using allergen-free chocolate and flour alternatives if necessary.
Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies for Holiday Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated white sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg yolks, peppermint extract, and vanilla; mix until well combined.
- Sift in flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; mix until just combined.
- Fold in peppermint and semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Scoop dough into 18 balls and place on the baking sheets, ensuring enough space.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, checking for soft centers and set edges.
- Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack; sprinkle with crushed candy canes if desired.
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