Peppermint Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that combines rich chocolate flavors with the refreshing taste of peppermint. These cookies feature a decadent chocolate base filled with semisweet chocolate chunks, topped with a drizzle of white chocolate and adorned with crushed candy canes and colorful sprinkles. The result is a festive and delicious treat that is perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply to enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa on a cozy winter’s day.
The combination of chocolate and peppermint has been a beloved holiday flavor pairing for many generations. Peppermint has long been associated with the festive season, with its refreshing taste evoking feelings of joy and merriment. Chocolate, on the other hand, is a beloved treat enjoyed year-round, but during the holidays, it takes on a special significance, often associated with indulgence and celebration.
The history of Peppermint Cookies is not well-documented, but it is likely that they evolved from the popularity of peppermint-flavored candies and treats during the holiday season. As bakers and home cooks experimented with flavors and ingredients, the idea of incorporating peppermint into chocolate cookies emerged. Over time, the recipe for Peppermint Cookies has been adapted and refined, leading to the delightful treat we know today.
INGREDIENTS
- 8 ounces semisweet chocolate chips or roughly chopped chocolate bar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ⅔ cup flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 eggs
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 12 ounces semisweet chocolate chunks
- 8 ounces white chocolate chips or white candy melts
- 1 and ¼ cups crushed candy canes
- ⅓ cup sugar pearls or other sprinkles
INSTRUCTIONS
- MELT CHOCOLATE AND BUTTER
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Heat the 8 ounces of semisweet chocolate and butter in a bowl in the microwave at 30-second increments, stirring between each, until just melted.
- PREPARE DRY INGREDIENTS
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and kosher salt.
- MIX WET AND DRY INGREDIENTS
- In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs, packed brown sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed until light and fluffy.
- Reduce the mixer speed to low and beat in the melted chocolate.
- Mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
- Stir in the semisweet chocolate chunks.
- SHAPE AND BAKE COOKIES
- Drop heaping tablespoons of dough 3 inches apart onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
- Bake until cookies are shiny and crackly yet soft in the centers, approximately 12 to 15 minutes.
- Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- DECORATE WITH WHITE CHOCOLATE AND TOPPINGS
- After the cookies have cooled, melt the white chocolate in the microwave, heating at 30-second increments until just melted.
- Pour the melted white chocolate into a resealable bag and snip off one corner to make a piping bag.
- Squeeze the white chocolate onto the cookies in a decorative pattern.
- Sprinkle the crushed candy canes and sugar pearls or sprinkles evenly over the chocolate.
- Let the cookies dry for at least one hour to set the toppings.
Now, you have a batch of delicious Peppermint Cookies, ready to be enjoyed with family and friends during the holiday season. The combination of rich chocolate, refreshing peppermint, and festive toppings makes these cookies a delightful addition to any holiday gathering or as a special treat for yourself.
