Irresistible Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies Recipe

There’s something magical about the aroma of peppermint wafting through the kitchen, mingling with the rich scent of chocolate. When you take a bite of these Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies, the world seems to melt away, leaving just you and that gooey chocolate bliss. festive red velvet cookies Picture sinking your teeth into a soft, chewy cookie, the refreshing zing of peppermint dancing on your taste buds like it just got invited to a party and is here to stay.

As winter settles in and holiday cheer fills the air, these cookies become the perfect companion for cozy gatherings or quiet nights by the fire. Each bite offers a delightful surprise—rich chocolate flavor meets refreshing peppermint in a way that makes you feel like a kid again. delectable chocolate mousse cups Get ready for an explosion of flavor that will have you reaching for seconds (and thirds).

I remember baking these cookies with my family one chilly December afternoon; we couldn’t keep our hands off them! The laughter and warmth shared over those cookies are moments I cherish.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for a sturdy cookie base; it helps achieve that perfect chewy texture.
• Cocoa Powder: Choose unsweetened cocoa powder for deep chocolate flavor without added sweetness.
• Baking Soda: This leavening agent ensures your cookies rise beautifully while maintaining their soft center.
• Salt: A pinch enhances all flavors; don’t skip this step!
• Unsalted Butter: Room temperature butter creates that rich, creamy texture essential for cookie dough.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that lovely crispy edge.
• Brown Sugar: This adds moisture and depth of flavor; it’s key to achieving chewiness.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and add richness; use large eggs for best results.
• Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates the flavors, making every bite more aromatic.
• Peppermint Extract: Essential for that signature holiday flavor; a little goes a long way!
• Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chips create melty pockets of chocolate goodness throughout each cookie. chocolate chip cookie twists.
• Candy Canes (Optional): Crushed candy canes on top add a festive touch and extra crunch!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Gather Your Ingredients: Start by assembling all your ingredients on the countertop. You’ll want everything within arm’s reach to streamline your baking journey.

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly soft.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until well blended; this helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout.

Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy—about 3 minutes. The mixture should look pale and airy.

Add Eggs and Extracts: Beat in eggs one at a time until fully incorporated. Then mix in vanilla extract and peppermint extract for that holiday flair.

Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Fold gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix or your cookies could turn out tough!

Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough—a crucial step for that ooey-gooey texture!

Scoop onto Baking Sheets: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading during baking.

Bake Until Perfect: Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set but centers remain slightly soft. The aroma will be irresistible!

Let these Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies cool on baking sheets before transferring them to wire racks. Enjoy warm or store in an airtight container—if they last that long! For more inspiration, check out this thick and chewy cookies recipe.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing your dry ingredients first, then cream the butter and sugar together. This ensures even distribution of flavors and a smooth dough.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out chocolate chips for white chocolate or dark chocolate. Adding crushed candy canes on top elevates the festive flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for 10 seconds to regain that fresh-baked warmth.

Baking these Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies reminds me of my childhood holidays when my grandma would let me sprinkle the candy canes on top. holiday pecan turtles The joy of sharing these sweet treats with loved ones still warms my heart.

FAQ

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Yes, feel free to mix in white or dark chocolate chips for variety.

How do I prevent cookies from spreading?

Chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to maintain shape.

Can I freeze peppermint hot chocolate cookies?

Absolutely! Freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months for later enjoyment.