Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

These Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion! With rich dark chocolate flavor and refreshing peppermint notes, these cookies offer a delightful combination that will impress your family and friends. Their chewy centers and melty chocolate chips make them an irresistible addition to your dessert table during the holidays or any festive gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of dark chocolate and peppermint creates a unique taste that stands out.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients come together quickly, making this cookie recipe perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 18 delicious cookies in one batch, they’re great for holiday parties, potlucks, or just sharing with friends.
• Customizable Toppings: Add crushed candy canes for extra holiday flair or leave them off for a classic look.
• Chewy Texture: Enjoy a satisfying chewiness in every bite, making these cookies a true indulgence.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delectable cookies, you will need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the baking process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugars, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently while preventing spills.
• Baking sheets: Provide an even surface for baking cookies, ensuring they cook uniformly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, allowing for easy cookie removal after baking.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

These double chocolate peppermint cookies are full dark chocolate and peppermint flavor, with chewy centers and melty chocolate chips in each bite.

Ingredients:
– 1 1/4 cups (156 g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled, see notes)
– 6 tbsps (30 g) cocoa powder, Dutch process
– 1/2 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup (165 g) light brown sugar, packed
– 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
– 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract
– 1/2 cup (100 g) peppermint chips (Andes)
– 1/4 cup (50 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 2 tbsp crushed candy canes for topping, optional

How to Make Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven is heating up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare them for the cookie dough.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, add softened unsalted butter along with light brown sugar and granulated sugar.
1. Use an electric mixer to cream the butter and sugars together for about two minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

To the creamed butter mixture, add egg yolks, peppermint extract, and vanilla bean paste or extract.
1. Mix on medium speed for two minutes until pale in color and fluffy.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to add the dry ingredients.
1. In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Chocolate Chips

Fold in peppermint chips and semi-sweet chocolate chips gently into the dough until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets

Scoop out dough into balls using a cookie scoop or spoon.
1. Place the balls of dough two inches apart on prepared baking sheets to allow space for spreading while baking.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes.
– Bake longer if you prefer crispier edges; otherwise aim for around ten minutes for chewier centers.

Step 8: Cool Down

Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for two minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
1. Allow them to cool completely before sprinkling with optional crushed candy canes.

Step 9: Store Your Cookies

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness for up to three days.

How to Serve Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

These double chocolate peppermint cookies are perfect for any occasion, especially during the holiday season. Their rich flavor and festive appearance make them a delightful treat when served in various ways.

With Hot Cocoa

• Enjoy these cookies alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa for a comforting winter treat.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a festive dessert platter with other holiday sweets like brownies or peppermint bark.

With Ice Cream

• Serve the cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla or mint ice cream for a delicious sundae experience.

Gift-Wrapped

• Wrap a few cookies in decorative bags as homemade gifts for friends and family during the holidays.

On a Cookie Bar

• Create a cookie bar at your holiday party. Include toppings such as crushed candy canes or extra chocolate chips for guests to customize their treats.

How to Perfect Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

To achieve the ideal texture and flavor in your double chocolate peppermint cookies, follow these essential tips.

• Measure flour accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to prevent dense cookies; too much flour can ruin the consistency.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that butter and egg yolks are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Chill cookie dough: If you have time, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to enhance flavors and improve texture.
• Adjust baking time: Baking for 10 minutes yields chewier centers, while 12 minutes results in crispier edges. Monitor closely!
• Add toppings after baking: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top right after removing from the oven so they stick well to the warm cookies.

Best Side Dishes for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your double chocolate peppermint cookies adds variety and enhances your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Peppermint Hot Chocolate
   A rich and creamy drink infused with peppermint, perfect for dipping your cookies.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A classic pairing; add a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the chocolatey goodness.

3. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad provides a light contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.

4. Chocolate Fondue
   Melted chocolate served with fruits and marshmallows offers an interactive dessert experience alongside your cookies.

5. Spiced Nuts
   Roasted spiced nuts add a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with soft cookies, making them an excellent side option.

6. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses can balance out the sweetness of the cookies, especially sharp cheeses like aged cheddar.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Incorrect Flour Measurement: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping this step can cause your cookies to spread too much. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking for thicker cookies.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much after adding flour can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for soft, chewy centers.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: An oven that’s too hot or cold can ruin your cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperature settings.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Expired baking powder or stale cocoa powder can affect texture and flavor. Always check expiration dates before starting your recipe.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to three days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be stored for up to three months.

Reheating Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place a skillet over low heat and warm the cookies for a few minutes, covered with a lid.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies special?

These cookies combine rich dark chocolate with refreshing peppermint flavor, making them perfect for holiday celebrations.

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Yes! You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark or milk chocolate chips based on your preference.

How do I customize my Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?

Feel free to add nuts or swap peppermint chips with other flavored chips like white chocolate or butterscotch for variety.

How long will these cookies stay fresh?

Stored properly in an airtight container, they will remain fresh for up to three days at room temperature or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. They are perfect for holiday gatherings or simply as a delightful treat any time of year. Feel free to customize them by adding different chocolates or mix-ins. Enjoy baking and savor every bite!