Introduction to Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
If you're a young professional juggling work, social events, and trying to maintain a semblance of a healthy lifestyle, double chocolate peppermint cookies might just be your new go-to treat! These delightful cookies combine the rich intensity of dark chocolate with the refreshing twist of peppermint, perfect for the festive season or any time you need a sweet escape.
Why Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Are Perfect for Young Professionals
Imagine coming home after a long day, and the aroma of freshly baked cookies fills your space—a quick lift to your spirits, right? These cookies not only offer a delicious sugar rush but also a way to carve out a moment for yourself. In just 15 minutes of prep and 10 minutes in the oven, you’ll have a batch that’s not only easy to share with friends or colleagues but also doubles as an excellent conversation starter at your next gathering.
Plus, with the option to add crushed candy canes on top, they become visually appealing and festive. You can feel good about baking at home instead of hitting the grocery store for pre-packaged treats; ingredient control means these cookies can be as indulgent or health-conscious as you’d like!
So why not treat yourself? Check out the full recipe for these delicious double chocolate peppermint cookies and start baking!
Ingredients for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Essential pantry items
To whip up your double chocolate peppermint cookies, you’ll need a few staples you likely already have in your kitchen. Here's a quick rundown:
- All-purpose flour: 1 ¼ cups (156 g) is essential for the cookie structure.
- Cocoa powder: ½ cup (40 g), preferably Dutch process, to achieve that rich chocolate flavor.
- Baking powder and baking soda: Both are crucial to give your cookies that perfect rise.
- Salt: Just ½ teaspoon to enhance the flavors.
- Butter: ¾ cup (168 g) of softened unsalted butter makes your cookies beautifully rich.
Specialty ingredients for festive flavor
Now, let’s bring in the festive twist! These ingredients elevate your double chocolate peppermint cookies:
- Brown and granulated sugar: Use ¾ cup (165 g) of light brown sugar and ¼ cup (50 g) of granulated sugar for that delightful sweetness.
- Egg yolks: 2 at room temperature help create a wonderfully chewy texture.
- Peppermint extract and vanilla bean paste: A teaspoon of each provides that perfect holiday flavor.
- Peppermint chips and semi-sweet chocolate chips: ½ cup (100 g) and ¼ cup (50 g) respectively add delicious chunks of chocolatey goodness.
- Crushed candy canes (optional): For a decorative and festive finish!
These ingredients ensure that every bite is a delightful blend of chocolate and peppermint, making them perfect for the holiday season. Happy baking!
Step-by-step preparation of Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Preheat and prepare your baking sheets
To kick off your baking adventure, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In the meantime, grab two baking sheets and line them with parchment paper. This step is crucial as it prevents your delectable double chocolate peppermint cookies from sticking and ensures even baking.
Cream together butter and sugars
Next up, it's time to bring a little creaminess into the mix! In a large mixing bowl, combine ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature), ¾ cup light brown sugar, and ¼ cup granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream these ingredients for about two minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This aeration is what gives your cookies that lovely chewy texture. Fun fact: Properly creaming butter and sugar not only enhances flavor but also creates the perfect cookie structure!
Incorporate egg yolks and extracts
Once your butter-sugar mixture is light and airy, it’s time to whip in the egg yolks, 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla bean paste (or extract). Mix this on medium speed for another two minutes. You’ll notice the color lightens, and everything blends into a velvety batter—so satisfying!
Combine dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup cocoa powder, ½ teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. Gently add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Pro tip: Be careful not to overmix here, as too much stirring can lead to dense cookies. Trust me; nobody wants that!
Fold in chocolate and peppermint chips
Now comes the fun part! Fold in ½ cup peppermint chips and ¼ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips into your cookie dough. This is where those cool minty flavors come alive, balancing perfectly with rich chocolate.
Scoop and space out dough balls
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, scoop out equal portions of dough and place them about two inches apart on your prepared baking sheets. This spacing is essential; if they're too close, you may end up with one giant cookie!
Bake to perfection
Pop the sheets into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. For chewy centers, aim for around 10 minutes—but if you prefer a bit of crispiness, leave them in for the full 12. Once done, let the cookies cool for about two minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a cooling rack for another 10 minutes. If you’re feeling festive, sprinkle some crushed candy canes on top for that extra holiday flair!
And there you have it—the perfectly chewy, chocolaty, and minty double chocolate peppermint cookies! Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share with friends!
Variations on Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Minty Dark Chocolate Variation
Elevate your double chocolate peppermint cookies by incorporating dark chocolate chunks. Opt for high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) to provide a rich, intense flavor that beautifully complements the peppermint. You might also consider swapping out half the cocoa powder for melted dark chocolate for an extra fudgy texture that’s sure to impress your guests.
Adding Nuts for Crunch
If you’re a fan of texture, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to your cookie dough. Nuts bring a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft, chewy centers of your double chocolate peppermint cookies. Just a half-cup will add a lovely nutty depth without overpowering the other flavors. Plus, the added protein makes these treats just a tad more wholesome!
Feel free to experiment with these variations to find your perfect cookie balance, and don’t forget to share your creations on social media!
Cooking tips and notes for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Common baking mistakes to avoid
When making your double chocolate peppermint cookies, be mindful of some common missteps. One major mistake is over-measuring flour, which can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy. Also, avoid skipping the room temperature eggs; they help to create a smooth batter by emulsifying ingredients more effectively. Lastly, resist the temptation to overmix the dough once you add the flour; this can toughen your cookies.
How to achieve the perfect texture
For the ultimate texture in your double chocolate peppermint cookies, focus on the creaming stage. Beat your butter and sugars until light and fluffy, as this introduces air for chewy centers. When baking, keep an eye on the time—10 minutes yields a soft, chewy cookie, while 12 minutes results in a firmer texture. For a perfectly melty chocolate experience, add semi-sweet chocolate chips at the end to create those irresistible gooey pockets of chocolate. Happy baking!
Serving suggestions for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Pairing with hot beverages
What better way to indulge than by enjoying your double chocolate peppermint cookies with a warm drink? Try pairing them with a delicious cup of peppermint hot chocolate or a cozy chai latte. The rich chocolate complements the warm spice, while the peppermint adds a refreshing twist. For a caffeine kick, a simple espresso or cold brew coffee also works beautifully. Think of it as a match made in dessert heaven!
Creative serving ideas for gatherings
Hosting a holiday party? Present your double chocolate peppermint cookies on a festive platter alongside other desserts for a mouthwatering dessert table. Cut the cookies in half to create mini sandwich-style treats filled with peppermint frosting, or stack them with a layer of marshmallow fluff in between. For a fun twist, consider gifting them as cookie bags, complete with a personalized tag. Your friends will love the thoughtful touch—and their taste buds will thank you!
Consider checking out Food Network for more ideas on cookie pairings and festive presentations.
Time Breakdown for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
When you're ready to whip up a batch of these delightful double chocolate peppermint cookies, here's what your time commitment will look like:
Preparation Time
15 minutes - This includes gathering ingredients and mixing your cookie dough to perfection.
Baking Time
10-12 minutes - A quick bake that lets you enjoy warm cookies fresh from the oven!
Total Time
25-27 minutes - A small investment for a sweet reward that fills your home with irresistible holiday aromas. Don't forget to set aside an extra 10 minutes to let those cookies cool for the best taste experience!
For more baking tips and tricks, check out resources such as King Arthur Baking for expert guidance on achieving perfect cookies every time. Happy baking!
Nutritional Facts for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Calories per Cookie
Each of these delightful double chocolate peppermint cookies packs approximately 150 calories. This makes them a sweet little treat that won’t completely derail your day, especially when enjoyed in moderation.
Carbohydrates and Sugar Content
In terms of carbs, each cookie contains around 20 grams, with about 10 grams coming from sugar. If you're curious about sugar content, it's worth noting that approximately 50% of the carbohydrate content is derived from natural sugars, primarily from the sugars used in the recipe and the delicious peppermint chips. For a more detailed breakdown of your daily intake needs, consider checking resources like ChooseMyPlate.gov to help guide your nutritional choices.
Remember to savor each bite of these rich and festive cookies while keeping in mind their nutritional facts—and don't hesitate to experiment!
FAQs about Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Can I use different types of chocolate chips?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for semi-sweet chocolate chips, feel free to experiment with your favorite types. Dark chocolate chips or even white chocolate can add a delightful twist to your double chocolate peppermint cookies. Mixing different types can enhance the flavor profile and texture, making your cookies uniquely yours.
What’s the best way to store these cookies?
To keep your double chocolate peppermint cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and chewy for up to three days. For longer storage, consider placing a slice of bread in the container to maintain moisture—trust us, it works wonders!
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can! Freezing the cookie dough is a great way to save time. Just scoop and form the dough into balls, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a sealed freezer bag for up to three months. When you're ready for fresh cookies, just bake them straight from the freezer—no thawing necessary! For more tips on cookie storage, check out this comprehensive guide on Food Storage 101.
Conclusion on Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
In conclusion, these double chocolate peppermint cookies are the perfect holiday treat to indulge in. The rich chocolate flavor combined with a refreshing hint of peppermint creates a festive masterpiece. Whether enjoyed with a warm cup of cocoa or shared with friends, they're sure to bring joy to your season! For more tips on cookie variations, check out this resource. Happy baking!
Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Equipment
- oven
- mixing bowl
- electric mixer
- baking sheets
- parchment paper
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour spooned and leveled
- ½ cup cocoa powder Dutch process
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup unsalted butter softened
- ¾ cup light brown sugar packed
- ¼ cup granulated white sugar
- 2 large egg yolks at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or extract
Chocolate Chips
- ½ cup peppermint chips Andes
- ¼ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoon crushed candy canes for topping, optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350℉ (175℃). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Add softened, unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar to a large bowl. Cream the butter and sugars with an electric mixer for two minutes, or until light and fluffy.
- To the creamed butter and sugars add the egg yolks, peppermint extract and vanilla. Mix on medium speed for two minutes, or until the mixture is pale in color and fluffy.
- Add in the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt and mix until combined.
- Add in the peppermint chips and chocolate chips and mix just until incorporated.
- Scoop the dough into 18 balls and arrange them two inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. (10 for chewier centers, 12 for crispier edges.)
- After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for two minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool for 10 minutes. Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the cookies if you wish and then serve!
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