Name: Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 teaspoon peppermint extract; 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (like candy canes); 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

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If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly marries the sweetness of chocolate with a refreshing peppermint twist, you’ve come to the right place. Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are just the ticket, offering rich chocolate flavors paired with the invigorating taste of peppermint. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that melts in your mouth, releasing an explosion of chocolate goodness. Add a dash of holiday cheer, and you’ve got a winner! These cookies are not only perfect for festive gatherings but also great for cozy nights at home when you want something special. With their festive color and flavor, they are sure to impress friends and family. So, let’s get baking and whip up some of these scrumptious Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies together!

Ingredients

To make your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, gather these simple ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (like candy canes)
1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

These ingredients work together to create a cookie that’s not just delicious but also festive, making it a favorite during the holiday season.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will ensure that your cookies don’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy. After that, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Don’t forget to pour in the vanilla extract, which adds a nice warmth to the cookies.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This step is essential as it blends all the dry elements and removes any lumps from the cocoa powder. Once mixed, gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; it’s okay if the dough is a bit thick.

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips and Peppermint

Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and the peppermint extract. You’ll want to mix those in equally for that chocolate and peppermint goodness in every bite. If you’re a fan of the peppermint crunch, this is the time to stir in the crushed peppermint candies.

Step 5: Portion the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or two tablespoons, drop the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave enough space between each cookie, as they’ll spread a bit while baking. Aim for about 2 inches apart. You can flatten them slightly with your palm if you prefer thinner cookies.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. You want the cookies to look set around the edges but soft in the middle. Remember, they’ll continue to cook a bit on the sheet after you take them out.

Step 7: Cool and Dust

Once done, take those glorious cookies out of the oven. Let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. If you’re feeling a little fancy, dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar for that extra festive touch.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

A couple of tips can elevate your cookie game:

Chill the Dough: If you have time, chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This makes for thicker cookies that won’t spread too much.
Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to change up the types of chocolate chips. White chocolate or even milk chocolate could be delicious too!
Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They should stay good for up to a week.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

Making Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies isn’t just about baking—they’re about creating memories. The smell that fills your home while these cookies are baking is enough to bring smiles all around. Imagine enjoying them with a glass of cold milk or hot cocoa on a chilly evening. Plus, if you’re sharing them with joyous friends and family, you’ll notice how easily cookies bring people together, making the moment a little sweeter.

Personal Touches

Want to make your cookies even more special? Here are a few suggestions:

Decorate: Melt some white chocolate to drizzle over the cooled cookies for a beautiful and tasty topping.
Themed Packaging: If you’re gifting these cookies, package them up in cute holiday bags or boxes. Some festive ribbons or stickers can really make your gifts pop.
Flavor Variation: Add a bit of almond extract or orange zest if you’re looking to create a unique twist on the classic flavor.

Conclusion

In conclusion, baking Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies is a fun way to celebrate any occasion, especially during the holidays. The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a delicious cookie that everyone will love. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for an enjoyable baking session filled with laughter and sweet aromas wafting through your home. These cookies are not just a treat; they are a way to share joy and warmth with others. Happy baking!