Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: 1 Magical Recipe

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Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies have a magical way of transforming an ordinary day into a festive celebration, even when it’s not the holidays! I remember the first time I tried making them; the kitchen filled with the most incredible aroma of rich chocolate and cool peppermint, and I knew I was onto something special. These aren’t just any cookies; they’re a symphony of deep cocoa flavor and refreshing mint, with a perfectly chewy texture that just melts in your mouth. The little pops of crushed candy cane on top add a delightful crunch and a beautiful visual flair, making them truly festive double chocolate peppermint cookies. Get ready to bake up some pure joy – let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

These cookies are an absolute winner for so many reasons. They’re not just delicious; they’re a joy to make and share!

  • Incredibly rich chocolate flavor that satisfies any craving.
  • A delightful burst of cool peppermint that’s perfectly balanced.
  • You’ll find these are truly easy double chocolate peppermint cookies to whip up, even if you’re new to baking.
  • They offer that wonderful homemade charm that store-bought treats just can’t match, making them the best homemade double chocolate peppermint cookies.
  • The chewy texture is simply irresistible, making each bite a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
  • They look absolutely stunning with their deep chocolate color and festive candy cane topping.
  • Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or just a special treat any time of year.
  • The aroma while baking is divine, filling your home with warmth and cheer.

Ingredients for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to this amazing chocolate peppermint cookie recipe. These components work together to create those wonderfully rich and chewy cookies.

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Using softened butter is key for creaming and achieving a smooth dough.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar – This helps with sweetness and the cookie’s structure.
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar – Brown sugar adds moisture and a lovely chewy texture, essential for great cookies.
  • 2 large eggs – They bind the ingredients and add richness.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract – This is where the refreshing mint flavor comes from; adjust to your preference!
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour – Forms the base of our cookie dough.
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – For that deep, intense chocolate flavor that makes these cookies so decadent.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies spread and rise slightly.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the chocolate flavor.
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – These melt into pockets of gooey chocolate goodness within the cookie.
  • 1/2 cup crushed candy canes, for topping – Adds a festive crunch and a final hint of peppermint.

How to Make Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Follow these simple steps to create these delightful cookies. This straightforward process makes the chocolate peppermint cookie dough recipe accessible for everyone!

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure to line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures your cookies bake evenly.
  2. Step 2: Grab a large mixing bowl. Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and wonderfully creamy. This is the foundation for a tender cookie.
  3. Step 3: Add the two large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Next, mix in the vanilla extract and the essential peppermint extract until everything is thoroughly combined and fragrant.
  4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures your dry ingredients are evenly distributed for consistent results.
  5. Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed or by hand until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. The dough will be thick and rich.
  6. Step 6: Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Space them about 2 inches apart, as they will spread while baking. This step is crucial for the perfect cookie size.
  7. Step 7: Bake for 10-12 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to be set, but the centers should still look slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook as they cool on the sheet. The aroma of chocolate and mint will be amazing!
  8. Step 8: Remove the baking sheets from the oven. Let the cookies cool on the sheets for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking.
  9. Step 9: While the cookies are still warm from the oven, sprinkle the crushed candy canes generously on top. The warmth helps them adhere beautifully. Enjoy your perfectly crafted how to make double chocolate peppermint cookies creation!

Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: Close-up of cookies with crushed candy cane topping

Pro Tips for the Best Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Want to elevate your cookie game? These tips will ensure your cookies are perfectly chewy, intensely chocolatey, and bursting with minty goodness.

  • For the most intense chocolate flavor, use a high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder.
  • Don’t overbake! Pull them out when the centers still look a little soft; they’ll set up as they cool, ensuring a chewy cookie.
  • Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent excessive spreading and concentrates the flavors.
  • Crush your candy canes finely for an even distribution and better adherence to the warm cookies.

What’s the secret to perfect Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?

The magic lies in the balance of ingredients and technique. Using both granulated and brown sugar provides chewiness, while quality cocoa and a touch of peppermint extract create that signature flavor. Don’t overmix the dough!

Can I make Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Simply scoop and bake when you’re ready, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if the dough is very cold.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?

A common pitfall is overbaking, which leads to dry cookies. Watch them closely and remove them when the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Another mistake is not creaming the butter and sugars enough; this step is vital for texture. For more baking tips, check out these last recipes.

Best Ways to Serve Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

These delightful cookies are fantastic on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a variety of beverages and treats. Serving them can elevate any occasion, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy afternoon.

  • Serve with a Cold Glass of Milk: It’s a classic for a reason! The cool milk is a perfect complement to the rich chocolate and mint flavors, creating a refreshing contrast.
  • Pair with Hot Cocoa: For the ultimate winter treat, dip these cookies into a warm mug of hot cocoa. The flavors meld together wonderfully, creating a truly decadent experience. This pairing is a perfect example of why a good mint chocolate cookie recipe is so beloved.
  • Enjoy with Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or a soothing tea can also be a great companion. The slight bitterness of coffee or the subtle notes of tea can enhance the cookie’s chocolate and peppermint profiles. Consider pairing with a cup of coffee made using beans from a reputable source, like those discussed in guides on copycat recipes.

Nutrition Facts for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

These rich cookies are a delightful treat, but like any indulgence, it’s good to know what you’re enjoying. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per cookie to help you enjoy them mindfully.

  • Calories: 150
  • Fat: 7g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 21g
  • Sugar: 10g

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For more information on healthy eating, you might find resources on foods to eat less of helpful.

How to Store and Reheat Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Properly storing these delightful cookies ensures they stay fresh and delicious, whether you’re prepping for a party or just want to enjoy them over a few days. Once completely cooled, place your double chocolate peppermint cookies in an airtight container. For short-term storage, they’ll keep wonderfully at room temperature for about 3-4 days. If you need to keep them longer, freezing is your best bet! You can find more tips on freezing baked goods in guides related to make-ahead meals.

To freeze, stack the cooled cookies with parchment paper in between layers to prevent sticking. Seal them tightly in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. For a quick reheat, place a cookie on a microwave-safe plate and warm for just 10-15 seconds – it brings back that fresh-baked warmth and gooey chocolate!

Frequently Asked Questions About Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

What are double chocolate peppermint cookies?

These delightful cookies are a rich, festive treat that combine the deep flavor of chocolate with the refreshing zing of peppermint. They are typically made with cocoa powder and chocolate chips in the dough, and often feature a peppermint extract for that signature minty taste. Many recipes, including this one, are topped with crushed candy canes for an extra festive crunch and visual appeal, making them a popular choice for the holidays.

Why are double chocolate peppermint cookies popular?

Their popularity stems from a perfect storm of deliciousness and festive charm! The combination of intense chocolate and cool peppermint is a classic pairing that many people adore, especially during the colder months. They offer a wonderful contrast to traditional holiday flavors and look absolutely stunning with their deep color and candy cane topping. Plus, they’re relatively easy to make, bringing that comforting homemade touch to any celebration, which makes the best double chocolate peppermint cookies a sought-after recipe.

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for semi-sweet chocolate chips, feel free to experiment. Dark chocolate chips will give you even richer, more intense chocolate flavor, perfect for those who love a deeper taste. White chocolate chips offer a sweeter contrast and look beautiful against the dark cookie. You could even try a mix of different chips for a complex flavor profile in your homemade double chocolate peppermint cookies.

How do I get the peppermint flavor just right?

The key is to use good quality peppermint extract. Start with the amount specified in the recipe and taste the dough (if you’re comfortable doing so). You can always add a tiny bit more, but you can’t take it away. Too much can be overpowering, so a little goes a long way. The crushed candy canes also contribute a subtle, crisp peppermint note, creating a lovely layered flavor experience.

Variations of Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies You Can Try

While this recipe is fantastic as is, I love experimenting with different twists to keep things exciting! Here are a few ideas to make your cookies even more unique and tailored to your taste.

  • Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies with Peppermint Chips: For an extra punch of minty goodness, swap out half of the semi-sweet chocolate chips for peppermint baking chips. This intensifies the mint flavor beautifully.
  • Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: If you prefer a more intense chocolate experience, use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. This creates a wonderfully rich and sophisticated flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the cool peppermint.
  • White Chocolate Peppermint Swirl: Melt some white chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies. You can also add white chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet contrast to the dark cookie base.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. I’ve found this works wonderfully without affecting the texture too much, making them accessible for more people.
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Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: 1 Magical Recipe


  • Author: basmer
  • Total Time: 25-27 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

These Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are a rich, festive holiday treat. They combine intense chocolate flavor with a refreshing hint of peppermint. The cookies are soft and chewy, loaded with chocolate chips, and topped with crushed candy canes for a perfect festive touch.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup crushed candy canes, for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy and well combined.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract until fully incorporated.
  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. Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
  6. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked.
  8. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
  9. While the cookies are still warm, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top.

Notes

  • For a different flavor, use dark chocolate chips or white chocolate chips.
  • Add chopped nuts or other crushed candies for variety.
  • Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • Cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw before serving.
  • Dough can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 3 days before baking.
  • These cookies pair well with hot cocoa, coffee, or milk.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: N/A
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: N/A
  • Unsaturated Fat: N/A
  • Trans Fat: N/A
  • Carbohydrates: 21g
  • Fiber: N/A
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: N/A

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