Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

These Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are a delightful treat packed with rich dark chocolate and refreshing peppermint flavors. With their chewy centers and melty chocolate chips, they make the perfect addition to any holiday gathering or cozy night in. Easy to prepare and irresistible, these cookies will become a favorite for festive occasions, bringing joy and deliciousness to everyone who tries them.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor – The combination of dark chocolate and peppermint creates a rich, invigorating taste that will please any chocolate lover.
• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies can be ready in no time, making them perfect for busy bakers.
• Chewy Texture – Enjoy the delightful chewiness of each cookie, with melty chocolate chips adding an extra layer of indulgence.
• Versatile Occasion Fit – Great for special occasion parties, holiday gift-giving, or just a sweet treat at home. These cookies suit any festive moment.
• Customizable Topping – Add crushed candy canes for a festive crunch or enjoy them as-is for pure chocolate goodness.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious cookies, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your baking experience is smooth and successful.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer – This tool helps achieve the perfect creamy texture when blending butter and sugars, crucial for fluffy cookies.
• Baking sheets – Using quality baking sheets ensures even cooking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.

Ingredients

These double chocolate peppermint cookies are full dark chocolate and peppermint flavor, with chewy centers and melty chocolate chips in each bite.

For the Dough

• 1 1/4 cups (156 g) all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled, see notes)
• 6 tbsps (30 g) cocoa powder, Dutch process
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup (168 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (165 g) light brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated white sugar
• 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract

For the Mix-ins

• 1/2 cup (100 g) peppermint chips (Andes)
• 1/4 cup (50 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

Optional Topping

• 2 tbsp crushed candy canes

How to Make Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

Add softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar to a large mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer to cream the mixture for two minutes until it becomes light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Egg Yolks and Extracts

Incorporate the egg yolks along with peppermint extract and vanilla into the creamed mixture. Mix on medium speed for another two minutes until pale in color and fluffy.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Mix together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until fully combined. Remember that proper flour measurement is key for maintaining cookie texture.

Step 5: Add Chips

Fold in the peppermint chips and semi-sweet chocolate chips just until incorporated. Do not overmix.

Step 6: Scoop Dough Balls

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, form dough into balls (about 18 total), placing them two inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes; bake longer for crispier edges or shorter for chewier centers.

Step 8: Cool Cookies

After removing from the oven, let cookies cool on the baking sheet for two minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. If desired, sprinkle crushed candy canes over warm cookies.

Step 9: Store Leftovers

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to three days. Enjoy your delicious treats!

How to Serve Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

These delightful double chocolate peppermint cookies are perfect for any occasion, especially during the holiday season. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic treat that balances the rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint flavors.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a festive dessert platter alongside other sweets like brownies and fudge for an inviting spread at holiday gatherings.

Warm with a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies topped with your favorite ice cream flavor, such as vanilla or mint, to create a delicious contrast in temperature and flavor.

With a Hot Beverage

• Enjoy the cookies with a cup of hot cocoa or peppermint tea to complement the minty taste and add warmth on chilly days.

Gift-Wrapped for Friends

• Package the cookies in decorative boxes or bags to share with friends and family during the holidays. It makes for a thoughtful and tasty gift!

How to Perfect Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Achieving the perfect double chocolate peppermint cookies is easy with just a few tips. Follow these guidelines for consistent, delicious results every time.

• Measure flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can make cookies dry.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow butter and egg yolks to sit at room temperature before mixing; this helps create a fluffy batter.
• Don’t overmix dough: Mix until just combined after adding the dry ingredients to maintain the chewy texture.
• Chill dough if needed: If your kitchen is warm, chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking to help retain shape.
• Test doneness carefully: Bake until edges are set but centers look slightly underbaked; they will continue to cook on cooling.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent them from getting hard.

Best Side Dishes for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Pairing side dishes with these double chocolate peppermint cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad with berries and citrus provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.
2. Chocolate Fondue
   Melted chocolate served with dippable fruits or marshmallows creates an interactive dessert experience that complements cookie flavors.
3. Cheesecake Bites
   Mini cheesecake bites offer creamy goodness that pairs well with the chocolate and peppermint notes of the cookies.
4. special occasion Spiced Nuts
   A mix of spiced nuts adds crunch and savory elements that balance out the sweetness of your cookies.
5. Gingerbread Men
   These classic holiday treats bring spice and nostalgia, enhancing any festive gathering alongside your cookies.
6. Peppermint Bark
   This sweet treat echoes the peppermint flavor in your cookies, making it an ideal companion for added indulgence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, it’s easy to make mistakes that could affect the outcome. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Boldly measuring flour: Using too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Always spoon and level the flour for accuracy.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long after adding the dry ingredients can create tough cookies. Mix just until everything is combined.
• Ignoring temperature: Not using room temperature egg yolks can affect the batter consistency. Let your eggs sit out before baking.
• Skipping parchment paper: Baking directly on sheets may cause sticking. Always line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Not checking doneness: Baking for too long can lead to hard cookies. Keep an eye on them and remove them when they’re still slightly soft in the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• They will last about three days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container.
• You can freeze them for up to three months.

Reheating Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, you can substitute dark chocolate chips if you prefer a richer chocolate flavor.

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

How do I store leftover Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for freshness.

Can I add nuts to this cookie recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would be great additions for extra crunch.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.

Final Thoughts

Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile! They burst with rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint flavors, perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize by adding different types of chips or nuts. Don’t miss out on trying this delightful treat!