As the holiday season approaches, the kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with tempting aromas and joyful memories. Picture this: the delightful scent of melted chocolate mingling with a playful hint of peppermint as you whip up a batch of Irresistible Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. Instantly, the vibrant red and white of crushed candy canes topping these decadent cookies spark a sense of festive cheer.
This recipe is not just a simple dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that captures the magic of the holidays. With each soft, chewy bite, you’ll experience the rich chocolate merging perfectly with refreshing peppermint, making it the ultimate treat for family gatherings or cozy nights by the fire. Plus, the ease of preparation means you’ll find yourself making these delightful cookies time and again, impressing guests and satisfying your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that will surely become a beloved tradition in your holiday baking lineup!
Why are Irresistible Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies a must-try?
Indulgent Flavor: The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates an unforgettable taste that embodies the holiday spirit.
Festive Touch: Topping these cookies with crushed candy canes not only adds a cheerful crunch but also enhances their visual appeal.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and an uncomplicated process, you’ll be baking batches in no time, even if you’re a novice!
Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy nights, making them a great gift or crowd-pleaser.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the dough in advance to save time and stress, ensuring you always have a treat on hand for unexpected guests.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to experiment with nut additions or swap in different types of chocolate for a personalized touch—check out my Bold Cherry Chocolate variation to keep things exciting!
Irresistible Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Provides fat for moisture and flavor; can substitute with margarine or vegan butter.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a crisp exterior; no direct substitution recommended.
- Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and chewiness; packed for best results; can substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- Large Eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds richness; egg substitutes (such as flaxseed meal) can be used for vegan options.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; can swap with almond extract for a different taste.
- Peppermint Extract – Adds a festive, minty flavor; adjust to taste or omit if preferred.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; whole wheat flour can be used as a healthier alternative.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Gives the cookies their chocolaty flavor; Dutch-process cocoa can be used for a richer taste.
- Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to ensure cookies rise; no substitution needed.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; important, with no recommended substitutions.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds melted chocolate pockets; can substitute with dark chocolate or dairy-free chocolate chips.
For the Toppings
- Crushed Candy Canes – Used as a topping for texture and decoration; optionally omit or use crushed nuts for a variation.
Dive into these Irresistible Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, and let the holiday magic begin!
How to Make Irresistible Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
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Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. -
Cream Butter and Sugars:
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is creamy and light in color—about 2-3 minutes. -
Add Eggs and Extracts:
Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully combined. Then, add in the vanilla and peppermint extracts for that festive flavor. -
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well mixed. This is essential for an even distribution of leavening agents. -
Mix Together:
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix! Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips for those delicious chocolate pockets. -
Scoop the Cookies:
Use a cookie scoop to drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie for spreading. -
Bake the Cookies:
Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Watch for the edges to set while the centers remain soft. Remove and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. -
Add Toppings:
While the cookies are still warm, generously sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for a festive crunch and a touch of minty goodness.
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Irresistible Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delicious freshness.
Fridge: If you prefer a chewier texture, refrigerate them in an airtight container for same timeframe, allowing the flavors to deepen.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving for the best taste and texture.
Reheating: Reheat cookies in the microwave for a few seconds or pop them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes to revive that warm, gooey goodness.
Irresistible Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Variations
Customize your cookies for a delightful twist, ensuring every bite is just as special as the last!
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Mint-Free: Omit peppermint extract and replace with orange or almond extract for a unique flavor profile.
A simple switch can offer a completely different experience, inviting new flavors into your baking. -
Healthy Swap: Substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nutritious boost without sacrificing taste.
This approach adds a subtle nuttiness, making each bite not only delightful but also wholesome! -
Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and richness.
Nuts will introduce a delightful texture that complements the soft, chewy cookies perfectly. -
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Use dark chocolate chips or chunks instead of semi-sweet for a richer chocolate experience.
The depth of flavor from dark chocolate elevates these cookies to a new level of indulgence. -
Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water).
This swap keeps the cookies soft and binding, while ensuring everyone can join in on the festive fun. -
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the batter to infuse a warm spice into your cookies.
This unexpected heat can create a pleasing contrast with the sweetness, giving you a delightful surprise in each bite. -
Holiday Sprinkle: Top with festive sprinkles or colored sugar in addition to or instead of crushed candy canes for a cheerful touch.
A simple addition brightens up your cookies and makes them extra festive for holiday gatherings! -
Drizzle Extra: For an added touch of decadence, drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the cooled cookies.
The contrast of chocolate enhances both the taste and the visual appeal, turning an already-stunning cookie into a showstopper!
Expert Tips for Irresistible Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
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Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming, leading to a well-blended cookie dough.
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Avoid Over-Mixing: Gently mix your cookie dough just until combined to maintain a tender texture—over-mixing can result in tough cookies.
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Cooling Time: Allow your cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to wire racks. This helps them set and maintain their shape.
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Adjust Peppermint Flavor: If you’re unsure about the strength of peppermint extract, start with less and add more to taste. It’s easy to adjust!
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Experiment with Variations: Don’t hesitate to mix in nuts or different chocolate types to create your own twist on these irresistible Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.
Make Ahead Options
These Irresistible Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are perfect for busy bakers looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance; simply cover it tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container and refrigerate. This helps enhance the flavors while preventing any browning or drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy your cookies, scoop the chilled dough onto baking sheets and bake as directed—there’s no need to let it come to room temperature first! This way, you can have freshly baked cookies in minutes, making delightful treats accessible even on the busiest days.
What to Serve with Irresistible Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?
As you bake these festive cookies, consider delightful pairings that elevate your holiday treats into a full meal experience.
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Classic Hot Cocoa: The rich, chocolatey flavors of hot cocoa perfectly complement the cookies, enhancing the cozy holiday spirit. Top with whipped cream for a delightful finish!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream brings a cool contrast to the warm cookies, creating an irresistible texture combination that’s sure to be a hit.
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Peppermint Tea: A steaming cup of peppermint tea offers a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the cookies, making it a soothing post-meal option.
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Spiced Apple Cider: The warm spices in apple cider harmonize beautifully with the chocolate and mint, adding a touch of nostalgia to your holiday festivities.
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Chewy Gingerbread Cookies: Pair your chocolate peppermint cookies with soft gingerbread cookies for a festive flavor explosion—two holiday favorites on one plate!
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Chocolate Mint Milkshake: Blend up a delicious chocolate mint milkshake for a fun treat that echoes the flavors of your cookies, making dessert extra special.
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Candied Pecans: Add some crunch to your spread with sweet and salty candied pecans, enhancing the cookies’ textures while delivering a nutty flavor that complements them well.
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Eggnog: Whether spiked or not, the creamy richness of eggnog adds a luxurious touch alongside your cookies, perfect for holiday gatherings with family and friends.
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Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad can help cleanse the palate while introducing bright flavors that balance the decadence of the cookies.
These pairings complete your holiday baking experience, making every bite of your Irresistible Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies even more delightful!
Irresistible Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of butter should I use for the cookies?
Absolutely! Use unsalted butter for the best flavor. It helps control the saltiness of your cookies. If you’re in a pinch or prefer a dairy-free option, feel free to substitute it with margarine or vegan butter. Just ensure it’s softened to room temperature for perfect creaming.
How long can I store the cookies, and what’s the best method?
You can store your cooled Irresistible Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and tasty! For a chewier textured cookie, store them in the fridge. Just remember to keep them covered to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze the cookies, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your cookies, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about an hour. Once they’re solid, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container—these can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.
What if my cookie dough is too dry?
If your dough seems dry, don’t worry! This could happen if you measured the flour too heavily. To fix this, add a tiny bit of milk or water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until you reach the desired consistency. Remember to avoid over-mixing for the best texture!
Can I include alternative fillings to accommodate allergies?
Yes, absolutely! If you’re baking for someone with allergies, consider substituting the semi-sweet chocolate chips with dairy-free chocolate chips or omitting them entirely. Additionally, ensure that the peppermint extract is safe for your guests, as some may have sensitivities. Always check labels to be extra careful.
How can I tell when the cookies are perfectly baked?
Great question! The key is to watch for the edges setting while the centers remain soft. They should look slightly underbaked when you take them out, as they will continue to cook with residual heat after you’ve removed them. This approach yields that soft, chewy texture everyone loves!
Indulgent Irresistible Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- hand mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment Paper
- cookie scoop
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup Unsalted Butter Softened
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar Packed
- 2 large Large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract Adjust to taste
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 3/4 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
For the Toppings
- 1/2 cup Crushed Candy Canes
Instructions
How to Make Irresistible Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy and light.
- Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla and peppermint extracts.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, careful not to over-mix. Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Scoop rounded balls of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set but centers are soft. Cool on the baking sheet briefly.
- Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top while the cookies are still warm.
Notes
Nutrition
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