Introduction
Discover the joy of holiday baking with these delightful Peppermint Cocoa Cookies. Combining the richness of cocoa with the refreshing essence of peppermint, these cookies are perfect for sharing or enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa. Their chewy centers and a hint of dark chocolate create a festive treat that everyone will love.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1¾ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon cornstarch
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon baking soda
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
2 large eggs
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup chopped Ghirardelli peppermint bark, plus extra for topping if desired
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, cornstarch, salt, and baking soda until well combined.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, using a stand mixer or hand-held mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Add Peppermint Extract and Eggs
Mix in the peppermint extract. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Incorporate Chocolate and Peppermint Bark
Fold in the dark chocolate chips and chopped Ghirardelli peppermint bark until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Form Cookie Dough Balls
Using a cookie dough scoop or a tablespoon, scoop out portions of dough and roll each into a ball. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly soft.
Cool and Add Toppings
Remove the cookies from the oven and, if desired, immediately press additional pieces of chopped peppermint bark onto the tops of the warm cookies. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Substitutions
You can substitute the dark chocolate chips with semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips if desired.
Variations
For added flavor, consider mixing in crushed peppermint candies or adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking.
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Preheating your oven ensures even baking, which is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Always check your oven’s temperature with an oven thermometer for accuracy.
Whisking Dry Ingredients
Whisking the flour, cocoa powder, and leavening agents together helps to evenly distribute ingredients and aerate the mixture, which can improve the texture of your cookies.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
Creaming the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter cookie. This step is vital for achieving the right rise and texture.
Incorporating Eggs and Extracts
Adding eggs one at a time ensures they blend well into the mixture. Incorporating peppermint extract not only adds flavor but also enhances the aromatic quality of the cookies.
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Mixing the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients gradually prevents overmixing, which can lead to tough cookies. Stop mixing as soon as the flour is incorporated.
Folding in Chocolate and Peppermint Bark
Gently folding in chocolate chips and peppermint bark helps to prevent breaking the chips while ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
Forming Cookie Dough Balls
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon ensures uniform size, promoting even baking. Rolling the dough into balls helps to create a smooth surface for an aesthetically pleasing cookie.
Baking the Cookies
Baking at the right temperature and time is key. Keep an eye on the cookies to ensure they are set at the edges but still soft in the center, allowing for a chewy texture.
Cooling and Adding Toppings
Letting cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them helps prevent breakage. Pressing extra peppermint bark on top while warm adds a decorative touch and extra flavor.
FAQ
Can I substitute the unsweetened cocoa powder with Dutch-processed cocoa?
Yes, you can substitute Dutch-processed cocoa powder, but note that it may alter the flavor and color of the cookies slightly.
How can I make these cookies more fudgy?
To achieve a more fudgy texture, you can reduce the amount of flour by a couple of tablespoons or increase the butter by a tablespoon.
What can I use instead of peppermint extract?
If you don’t have peppermint extract, you can substitute with vanilla extract, although it will change the flavor profile.
Can I use different types of chocolate chips?
Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips based on your preference, but it will alter the taste.
How do I store the cookies?
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If cookies spread too much, it may be due to warm dough or not enough flour. Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help maintain their shape.
Conclusion
These chocolate peppermint cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly blend rich chocolate flavor with a refreshing hint of peppermint. Their soft texture, combined with the added crunch of Ghirardelli peppermint bark, makes them a festive favorite. Enjoy these cookies during the holiday season or anytime you crave a sweet and minty indulgence.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Chip Mint Brownies
Combine chocolate chips with a layer of mint frosting for a rich brownie treat that pairs wonderfully with your peppermint cookies.
Mint Chocolate Ice Cream
Create a mint chocolate chip ice cream using the same peppermint flavoring, blending in chocolate shavings for a refreshing dessert.
Peppermint Bark Cheesecake
Incorporate crushed peppermint bark into a creamy cheesecake for a holiday dessert that showcases the same flavors as your cookies.
Chocolate Peppermint Muffins
Use the cookie dough as a base to make muffins, adding extra chocolate chips and a sprinkle of crushed peppermint bark for enhanced flavor.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Serve your cookies alongside a warm cup of homemade peppermint hot chocolate to complement the minty flavors in both treats.
