Oh my goodness, if you’re looking for the ultimate holiday treat (or, let’s be real, a seriously delightful indulgence any time of year), then look no further! Let me introduce you to my favorite cookie recipe: **Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies**. These little bites of joy are chocolatey, chewy, and packed with that refreshing hint of peppermint that just screams festive cheer!
I remember the first time I baked these cookies; it was during a snowstorm, and I decided to experiment with chocolate and peppermint as a way to warm up the house. The result? A kitchen filled with the sweetest aroma and my family huddled around the oven, eagerly waiting for those delightful treats to finish baking. I’m telling you, there’s something magical about this combination—it’s like a cozy hug in cookie form!
What’s in Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?
Let’s break down the star ingredients of these gorgeous cookies, shall we?
Unsalted Butter: This is the base for any good cookie. It gives them that rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. I always choose a high-quality brand, as the flavor really makes a difference!
Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar: The dynamic duo of sweetness! While granulated sugar provides that classic sweetness, brown sugar brings in moistness and a hint of caramel flavor.
Eggs: They add moisture and help bind everything together. Make sure they’re at room temperature for optimal mixing!
Vanilla Extract: Just a touch of this magical elixir enhances all the flavors. GO for real vanilla extract rather than imitation for the best taste!
All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the cookies. Make sure to spoon and level it when measuring so you don’t end up with dense cookies!
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: This is where the chocolatey goodness comes in. I prefer Dutch-processed for a velvety texture.
Baking Soda: A must for leavening, giving those cookies the perfect lift.
Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Because who doesn’t love gooey chocolate pockets? These are essential for that heavenly burst of chocolate in every bite.
Peppermint Extract: Adds a fresh and festive flavor that takes these cookies to the next level.
Crushed Peppermint Candy Canes: These are the cherry on top! They add a delightful crunch and a pop of color. Make sure to save some for garnish!
Is Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Good for You?
Let’s be honest: these cookies are a treat, and while they’re not health food, they do have some delightful perks!
Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate chips are a good source of antioxidants which can be beneficial if you’re looking to indulge a little healthier.
Peppermint: Peppermint can help soothe stomach issues and can even provide a refreshing mental boost!
However, like all goodies, moderation is key. Enjoy a couple with some milk and you’ll feel warm and fuzzy inside—and that’s what the holidays are all about, right?
Ingredients List
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candy canes (plus additional for garnish)
*Yields about 3 dozen cookies.*
How to Make Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this prevents sticking, making clean-up a breeze!
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. If you have a stand mixer, use it! You’ll get a nice, airy mixture.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts. The mixture should smell heavenly at this point!
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix; we want our cookies tender!
6. Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candy canes.
7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Trust me, they spread!
8. Sprinkle additional crushed peppermint on top of each cookie before baking, if desired. It makes them look festive!
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set around the edges but still soft in the center.
10. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Festive Serving Suggestions
These cookies are the perfect companion for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in. Pair them with a glass of milk or hot cocoa for that extra chocolaty goodness! If you really want to impress, drizzle melted white chocolate over the tops after they cool—trust me, it looks stunning and tastes divine. Store any leftovers (if there are any!) in an airtight container for up to a week (though I seriously doubt they will last that long)!
I can’t wait for you to try these Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies! They never fail to put a smile on my face and bring joy to those around me. So, roll up your sleeves, get that mixer going, and let the cookie magic happen! If you give them a go, be sure to tell me how they turned out—I love hearing about your kitchen adventures! Happy baking!
