Hello, Cookie Lovers! Welcome to a Festive Cookie Wonderland!
The holiday season is upon us, and nothing says “festive cheer” like the irresistible combination of peppermint and chocolate! Imagine indulging in a batch of Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookies—a perfect mix of rich chocolate chunks and refreshing peppermint crunch in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a holiday treat to share with friends, these Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookies are a must-try! Let’s dive into the joy of baking these delicious, holiday-inspired cookies!
Introduction to Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookies
As winter approaches, the craving for warm, comforting flavors grows stronger, and these Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookies hit just the right spot. Inspired by traditional holiday flavors, this recipe adds a twist to the classic chocolate chunk cookie by incorporating peppermint for a burst of freshness. Perfectly festive and easy to make, these cookies are great for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or cozy family gatherings. Whether you’re a fan of chocolate chunk cookies or looking to try something new this holiday season, this recipe promises a flavor that’s both nostalgic and uniquely refreshing.
Ingredients for Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookies
To make these Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chunks (dark or milk chocolate, as preferred)
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
These ingredients make a delicious, chewy, and slightly crisp cookie with the perfect balance of chocolate and peppermint. For those with dietary needs, you can substitute gluten-free flour or use dairy-free butter to suit your preferences.
How to Make Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookies – Step by Step
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of packed brown sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream the ingredients until they’re light and fluffy, which takes about 2-3 minutes.
Tip: Make sure the butter is soft to achieve the perfect creamed consistency. Cold butter won’t blend as smoothly, which can affect the cookie texture.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of the chocolate and peppermint.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies tough.
Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate Chunks and Peppermint
Gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chunks and 1/2 cup of crushed peppermint candies. Make sure they are evenly distributed for a consistent flavor in each cookie.
Step 6: Portion the Dough
Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden and the centers are still soft. The cookies will continue to cook slightly on the baking sheet as they cool.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This ensures they set without breaking apart.
Cooking Tip: For an extra festive look, sprinkle a few more crushed peppermint pieces on top of each cookie while they’re still warm.
Helpful Tips for Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookies
- Use Softened Butter: Softened butter helps achieve a creamy texture, resulting in tender cookies.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For a thicker cookie, chill the dough for 20 minutes before baking.
- Crush Peppermint Carefully: To crush candy canes without a mess, place them in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush with a rolling pin.
Cooking Tips for the Best Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookies
- Achieve Perfect Texture: For soft, chewy centers, take the cookies out just as the edges turn golden.
- Balance the Peppermint: Use a mix of chocolate chunks and peppermint to balance flavors—too much peppermint can overpower.
- Store Dough for Later: Cookie dough can be refrigerated for up to 48 hours, so you can bake fresh batches as needed.
Serving Suggestions for Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookies
Serve these Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookies with a tall glass of milk or a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy winter treat. They also pair well with a rich espresso or peppermint tea for a refreshing contrast. These cookies make a delightful addition to a holiday dessert platter and are also perfect for gifting—pack them in a decorative tin to share the joy of the season!
Nutritional Information
These Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookies bring a balance of indulgence and holiday cheer.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 180
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 2g
Sugars: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on specific brands and substitutions used.
Storage and Leftovers for Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookies
Storing: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their freshness. For extended storage, refrigerate the cookies for up to 10 days.
Freezing: To freeze the cookies, let them cool completely, then place them in a sealed container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a freshly baked taste.
Reheating Tip: For a just-baked feel, warm the cookies in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes or microwave for a few seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookies
1. Can I use peppermint extract instead of crushed candy canes?
Yes, if you prefer a smoother cookie without candy cane pieces, use 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract in place of crushed candies.
2. What type of chocolate works best?
Chocolate chunks, either dark or milk, work best for a rich, melty texture. You can also use chocolate chips if that’s what you have on hand.
3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version. Just check your baking soda and other ingredients for gluten-free certification.
4. How can I make these cookies vegan?
To make vegan cookies, substitute butter with a vegan margarine, eggs with flax eggs, and use dairy-free chocolate chunks.
Related Recipes for Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookie Lovers
If you love the flavor of peppermint and chocolate, try these delicious recipes:
Conclusion
We hope you enjoyed learning how to make these Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookies. Baking cookies is one of the best ways to bring people together, and these holiday-inspired treats are sure to spread cheer and warmth wherever you go. Try this recipe, experiment with your own twists, and let us know how they turn out! Feel free to share your experience or any creative variations in the comments below. Happy baking, and may your season be sweet and joyful!
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Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookies – Festive & Delicious
Description
Hello, Cookie Lovers! Welcome to a Festive Cookie Wonderland!
The holiday season is upon us, and nothing says “festive cheer” like the irresistible combination of peppermint and chocolate! Imagine indulging in a batch of Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookies—a perfect mix of rich chocolate chunks and refreshing peppermint crunch in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a holiday treat to share with friends, these Festive Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookies are a must-try! Let’s dive into the joy of baking these delicious, holiday-inspired cookies!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chunks (dark or milk chocolate, as preferred)
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
These ingredients make a delicious, chewy, and slightly crisp cookie with the perfect balance of chocolate and peppermint. For those with dietary needs, you can substitute gluten-free flour or use dairy-free butter to suit your preferences.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of packed brown sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream the ingredients until they’re light and fluffy, which takes about 2-3 minutes.
Tip: Make sure the butter is soft to achieve the perfect creamed consistency. Cold butter won’t blend as smoothly, which can affect the cookie texture.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of the chocolate and peppermint.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies tough.
Step 5: Fold in the Chocolate Chunks and Peppermint
Gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chunks and 1/2 cup of crushed peppermint candies. Make sure they are evenly distributed for a consistent flavor in each cookie.
Step 6: Portion the Dough
Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden and the centers are still soft. The cookies will continue to cook slightly on the baking sheet as they cool.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This ensures they set without breaking apart.
Cooking Tip: For an extra festive look, sprinkle a few more crushed peppermint pieces on top of each cookie while they’re still warm.
Equipment
Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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- Use Softened Butter: Softened butter helps achieve a creamy texture, resulting in tender cookies.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For a thicker cookie, chill the dough for 20 minutes before baking.
- Crush Peppermint Carefully: To crush candy canes without a mess, place them in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush with a rolling pin.
