Introduction
If you’re looking for a festive treat to impress friends and family this holiday season, look no further than Peppermint Cheesecake Cookie Cups. These delightful bites combine a rich chocolate cookie with a creamy peppermint cheesecake filling, making them a perfect addition to any dessert table. Easy to make and fun to eat, these cookie cups encapsulate all the flavors of the holiday season in a compact form.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Cookie Cup Ingredients:
– 1⅓ cup all-purpose flour
– ½ cup cocoa
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ cup butter
– ⅔ cup brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Filling Ingredients:
– ⅔ cup heavy whipping cream
– 6 ounces cream cheese
– ⅓ cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– ½ cup crushed candy canes
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Total Time: 34 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 cookie cups
These Peppermint Cheesecake Cookie Cups are not only visually appealing but also a delicious treat that perfectly balances the flavors of chocolate and peppermint. Enjoy them during holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift for loved ones!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set the oven to 350ºF.
Prepare the Cookie Cups
In a large bowl, combine the flour, cocoa, and baking soda. In another bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar using a handheld or stand mixer. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until fully incorporated. Scoop the dough into ¾-inch balls and place each into a greased mini-muffin pan. Press the center of each ball with your thumb or a small measuring spoon to form a cup shape. Bake for 14 minutes until set but still soft. After baking, if the centers have puffed up, press them down again to maintain the cup shape. Allow the cookie cups to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. In a separate large bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, and peppermint extract together until smooth. Fold the whipped cream and crushed candy canes into the cream cheese mixture until well combined.
Assemble the Cookie Cups
Spoon or pipe the peppermint cheesecake filling into the cooled cookie cups. Optionally, garnish with additional crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
Storage
Store the assembled cookie cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
Variations
Feel free to customize the filling with different extracts or mix-ins like chocolate chips or other crushed candies.
Serving Suggestions
These cookie cups can be served at room temperature but are best enjoyed chilled.
Allergy Information
Consider potential allergies to dairy or gluten when serving, and adjust ingredients accordingly if needed.
Texture Tips
For a softer cookie cup, avoid overbaking; the centers should remain a bit soft.
Cook techniques
Measuring Ingredients
When measuring flour and cocoa, use the spoon and level method. Spoon the ingredient into the measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge. This ensures accuracy and prevents dense cookies.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
To achieve a light and airy texture, cream the butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which helps the cookies rise.
Forming Cup Shapes
When forming the cookie cups, use your thumb or a small measuring spoon to create a well in the center. This will allow for better filling and a pleasing presentation.
Cooling Properly
Let the cookie cups cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to set without breaking or losing shape.
Whipping Cream
Beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. This will provide a light and fluffy texture for the cheesecake filling. Be careful not to overbeat, as it can turn grainy.
Folding Technique
When combining the whipped cream with the cream cheese mixture, use a folding technique. This gently incorporates the whipped cream without deflating it, maintaining the lightness of the filling.
FAQ
Can I substitute the cream cheese?
Yes, you can use mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt as a substitute for cream cheese for a different flavor and texture.
What can I use instead of peppermint extract?
If you don’t have peppermint extract, you can substitute it with vanilla extract or omit it for a different flavor profile.
How can I make these cookie cups ahead of time?
You can prepare the cookie cups and filling separately a day in advance. Assemble them just before serving to keep the cookies crisp.
Can I use a different type of candy for the filling?
Yes, you can use crushed chocolate, toffee bits, or any holiday-themed candies for the filling instead of crushed candy canes.
How do I store leftover cookie cups?
Store assembled cookie cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
These Peppermint Cheesecake Cookie Cups offer a perfect blend of chocolatey richness and festive peppermint flavor, making them an excellent treat for holiday gatherings. Their unique cup shape and creamy filling add a fun twist to traditional desserts, ensuring they are a hit among guests and family alike. Enjoy them fresh and chilled for the best experience!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Mini Pumpkin Cheesecake Cups
Substitute the cocoa in the cookie cups with pumpkin spice and fill with a pumpkin cheesecake mixture using cream cheese, pumpkin puree, sugar, and cinnamon.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Cups
Replace the filling with classic chocolate chip cookie dough made from butter, brown sugar, and chocolate chips for a gooey, crowd-pleasing snack.
Fruit Tart Cookie Cups
Create a light filling using pastry cream or yogurt and top with fresh fruit like berries, kiwi, or sliced peaches for a refreshing twist.
Peanut Butter Cookie Cups
Mix peanut butter into the cookie dough and fill the cups with a creamy peanut butter filling, topped with crushed nuts for added crunch.
Nutella Cheesecake Cookie Cups
Incorporate Nutella into the cream cheese mixture for a hazelnut-chocolate flavored filling, making it an indulgent treat for Nutella lovers.
