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Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies That Melt Your Heart
Introduction to Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
Imagine curling up by the fire, surrounded by twinkling lights and the scent of holiday cheer — Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies perfectly encapsulate this cozy vision. These delightful treats blend the rich, comforting flavor of hot chocolate with a festive peppermint twist. They are not just cookies; they embody the warmth of the season, bringing a sense of nostalgia and joy that makes every bite feel like a hug.
Baking has always been a cherished tradition in my family, especially during the holiday season. I still remember the first time I made these Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies with my grandmother. Her secret ingredient was always a sprinkle of crushed candy canes on top, which added a delightful crunch and made the cookies visually stunning. That holiday memory inspired this recipe, and I’m excited to share it with you!
What makes these cookies a festive favorite?
These cookies are a delightful blend of flavors and textures:
- Flavor Fusion: The sweet, chocolaty base harmonizes beautifully with the peppermint, creating a unique taste that captures the essence of winter.
- Textures Galore: With a soft, chewy inside and a slightly crisp edge, each cookie provides that satisfying bite, while the crushed candy canes add an exciting crunch.
- Visual Appeal: The vibrant red and white from the peppermint topping make these cookies perfect for holiday gatherings or as thoughtful gifts.
Plus, they are incredibly easy to make! Even if you’ve never baked before, this recipe will guide you step by step to create a batch of cookies that will impress everyone. Whether you are hosting a holiday get-together or simply looking for a cozy snack, Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies will surely brighten your day and bring a touch of winter magic to your kitchen. So, let’s get started!
Key Ingredients for Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies bring together everything you love about cozy winter nights, and the ingredients are just as delightful. Here’s what you’ll need for these festive treats:
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Butter: The secret to a soft and chewy cookie lies in the butter. Using unsalted butter gives you full control over the saltiness, while its creamy texture ensures that every bite melts in your mouth.
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Sugar: A combination of brown sugar and granulated sugar adds depth and chewiness to the cookies. Brown sugar not only sweetens but also keeps the cookies moist, while granulated sugar gives them that delightful crispiness on the outside.
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Eggs: Eggs play a crucial role in binding the ingredients together. I use room temperature eggs for a smoother batter and even baking. It’s a little trick that makes a big difference!
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Flour: All-purpose flour works perfectly here, providing stability and structure. If you’re feeling adventurous, using whole wheat flour offers a nutty flavor with added nutrition.
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Cocoa Powder: For that rich chocolatey goodness, unsweetened cocoa powder is essential. It’s what truly brings out the flavors of a classic hot chocolate in cookie form.
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Chocolate Chips: Choose semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to enhance the cookie’s indulgence. In every bite, they’ll remind you of the warm drinks you adore.
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Peppermint Extract: A splash of peppermint extract adds that refreshing minty flavor. It’s the key ingredient that transforms ordinary chocolate cookies into a festive treat.
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Sea Salt: Just a pinch of sea salt balances the sweetness and elevates the overall flavor profile, making each cookie irresistible.
Embrace the holiday spirit with these Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies—they’re sure to warm you up on the coldest nights!
Why You’ll Love These Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies are more than just a delightful treat; they evoke the warmth and coziness of gathering around the fireplace during winter nights. Imagine the aroma of chocolate mingling with the refreshing scent of peppermint wafting through your kitchen as these cookies bake to perfection. With each bite, expect a burst of flavor that instantly transports you to a festive wonderland.
Irresistible Flavor Combination
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Rich Chocolate: The base of these cookies is a luscious chocolate dough that’s decadently rich. It’s the kind of chocolate flavor that melts in your mouth, leaving you craving more.
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Refreshing Peppermint: The addition of peppermint not only brings a zing to the cookies but also adds a seasonal touch that’s hard to resist. This flavor combo perfectly balances the sweetness of chocolate, making taste buds dance in delight.
Texture You’ll Adore
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Chewy and Soft: The recipe ensures a chewy interior, contrasted with slightly crisp edges—ideal for cookie lovers who appreciate that perfect texture.
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Melty Chocolate Chips: Not to forget, the pockets of gooey chocolate chips add an extra layer of indulgence.
These Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies are not just a dessert; they’re an experience—a reason to gather with loved ones and share joy in every bite.
Variations of Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
Finding ways to elevate your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies can lead to delightful surprises. Imagine the comforting familiar taste, but with a fun twist! Here are some fantastic add-ins and substitutions to ponder:
Add-ins and substitutions
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Chocolate Chips: While semi-sweet chocolate chips are a classic choice, why not experiment with white chocolate or dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor? You can even mix different types for a fun texture contrast!
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Candy Canes: Crushed candy canes sprinkled into the dough or as a garnish not only enhances the peppermint flavor but also adds a festive crunch. If you prefer, try using crushed peppermint candies for a subtler minty taste.
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Nutty Twist: Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans provide a satisfying crunch. Just remember to toast them lightly to enhance their flavor.
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Dairy Alternatives: If you’re looking for dairy-free options, substitute regular butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter. For milk, almond or oat milk work beautifully in the batter.
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Flour: If gluten is an issue, consider a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This can help everyone enjoy your delicious Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies without compromise.
By integrating these variations, you’ll find a new favorite version of these cozy cookies, perfect for any holiday gathering or a special treat for yourself!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
When diving into the delightful world of Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies, there’s an unmistakable charm in their rich chocolatey flavor intertwined with a refreshing minty bite. To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips to guide you in your baking adventure.
Ensuring the Perfect Bake
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Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated properly. An oven thermometer can help maintain the exact temperature, as an under or overrated oven can affect the texture. For these cookies, a moderate temperature ensures they bake through while keeping the centers delightfully chewy.
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Chill the Dough: Allow your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies dough to chill for at least 30 minutes before baking. This step solidifies the fats, leading to cookies that are thicker and less spread out during baking.
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Measure Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, and measuring ingredients accurately can make a significant difference. Use a kitchen scale for flour and sugar for precision.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the tender texture we seek.
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Test for Doneness: Bake the cookies until they look slightly underdone in the center. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet once removed from the oven, resulting in a soft and chewy treat.
By following these tips, you’ll enjoy the rich flavors and cozy aroma of Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies, making your baking experience not just enjoyable, but successful!
Serving Suggestions for Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
Indulging in Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies is like wrapping yourself in a warm, cozy blanket on a chilly winter evening. The combination of chocolate and peppermint creates a delightful treat that can brighten even the dreariest of days.
Pairing with Drinks or Desserts
To elevate your cookie experience, think about what to serve alongside your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies. Here are a few ideas:
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Hot Cocoa: A classic pairing! Serve your cookies with a steaming mug of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream and more crushed peppermint for that extra festive touch.
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Coffee: If you’re a coffee lover, consider a rich, dark roast or even a peppermint mocha to complement the minty freshness of the cookies. The flavors will dance together deliciously!
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Ice Cream: For a fun dessert experience, try serving these cookies with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The combination of warm and cold will create a delightful contrast.
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Milk: Never underestimate the classic pairing of cookies and milk. It’s simple, but it lets the flavor of those peppermint cookies shine.
Each of these pairings brings out the unique qualities of your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies, making for a treat that’s perfect for sharing or simply enjoying on your own!
Time Breakdown for Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
Creating Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies is more than just following a recipe; it’s about crafting a cozy moment that warms your heart. Let’s break down the time needed to enjoy this delightful holiday treat!
Preparation time
You’ll need about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients and mix everything together. It’s a delightful time spent measuring out your chocolate and peppermint components, setting the stage for your delicious creation.
Baking time
Once your dough is ready, pop those cookies in the oven for just 12-15 minutes. The rich aroma of chocolate and peppermint will fill your kitchen, making you eager for the sweet results.
Total time
In about 30 minutes, you’ll be enjoying these scrumptious Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies, perfect for sharing or indulging in solitude. Get ready for a warm, festive treat!
Nutritional Facts for Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
When it comes to indulging in the delicious world of Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies, knowing their nutritional breakdown can be a delightful bonus.
Calories
One of these delectable cookies contains approximately 120 calories. So, enjoy one or two as an occasional treat without worrying too much about calorie counting.
Protein
Each cookie provides around 2 grams of protein, offering a small boost to help balance out your sweet cravings while still satisfying your taste buds.
Sugar
These indulgent cookies include about 10 grams of sugar each, making them a sweet delight. Just remember, moderation is key, especially if you’re watching your sugar intake!
FAQs about Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
When you indulge in the warm embrace of Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies, you might find yourself with a few questions about making and enjoying them. Let’s dive into some common queries to enhance your baking journey!
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies freeze beautifully, making them perfect for batch baking. After they cool completely, place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag, ensuring to separate layers with parchment paper. They can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop them in the oven for a few minutes to warm them up, and you’ll have a delightful treat just like fresh out of the oven.
How do I store leftover cookies?
To keep your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you’ve added any frosting or toppings, make sure to keep them separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Properly stored, they can last for about a week. For the best taste, though, I recommend enjoying them within the first few days!
Can I use a different type of sugar?
Certainly! While the recipe calls for granulated sugar for sweetness, you can swap it with brown sugar for a richer flavor and a chewier texture. Coconut sugar is also a great alternative for a hint of caramel flavor. Just keep in mind that the cookie’s texture might vary slightly, but that’s the beauty of experimenting in the kitchen!
Conclusion on Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
In the delightful world of holiday baking, Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies truly stand out. These cookies create a whimsical blend of comforting chocolate and refreshing peppermint, perfect for sharing with loved ones during festive gatherings. As you wrap your kitchen in the sweet aroma of melted chocolate and crushed candy canes, you’ll find that baking these treats not only satisfies a sweet tooth but also evokes cherished memories. Delight in the joy of enjoying them fresh out of the oven or packaged as thoughtful gifts. Embrace the season, and let these cookies spark joy and warmth in every bite!
Print
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously rich peppermint chocolate chip cookies, perfect for the holiday season!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This takes about 2–3 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. The mixture should be smooth and glossy.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Gently stir in the chocolate chips. The dough will be thick and rich, just like brownie batter.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop mounds of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Bake for 8 minutes.
- Remove the cookies briefly from the oven. Press 2–3 mini marshmallows and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy into the center of each cookie. Return to the oven and bake for another 2–3 minutes until marshmallows are slightly melted and the edges are set.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- These cookies may be frozen for up to a month.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
