Hot Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: A Heartwarming Treat for the Holidays
IntroductionWelcome to a delightful culinary journey perfect for the holiday season! These Hot Chocolate Peppermint Cookies combine the cozy comfort of hot chocolate with a refreshing peppermint twist. Imagine biting into a warm, rich cookie with melted chocolate and a hint of mint; sheer bliss! For those looking to receive this delicious recipe in their inbox, why not subscribe to our updates and never miss a treat?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies are a perfect blend of warmth and festivity, ideal for sharing during family gatherings or enjoying solo with a cup of hot cocoa. They’re easy to prepare, kid-friendly, and promise to fill your home with the enchanting
aromas of chocolate and peppermint. Plus, they’re an excellent activity to involve kids in holiday baking fun!
Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
– 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
Necessary Tools
– Large mixing bowl
– Electric mixer
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Whisk
– Baking sheets
– Parchment paper
– Wire rack
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to experiment with this recipe! Swap semisweet chocolate chips with dark or white chocolate for a different flavor twist. You can also add nuts like walnuts or pecans for some crunch. For those who love extra heat, a pinch of cayenne can take these cookies to the next level!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until you achieve a light, fluffy texture.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In another bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder together.
5. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, mixing until just incorporated.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies gently.
7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Top each with a few mini marshmallows.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and marshmallows are golden.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets briefly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cookies with a warm mug of hot chocolate or a peppermint mocha. They also make a lovely addition to a dessert platter at your next holiday party. Pairing them with other holiday favorites like spiced nuts or gingerbread enhances their flavors.
Pro Tips for Success
– Ensure butter is softened for better mixing.
– Don’t overmix the dough to keep the cookies tender.
– Press marshmallows gently for even melting.
Storing and Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For a fresh-out-of-the-oven texture, warm them slightly in the microwave before serving.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough?
A: Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Q: Are these cookies gluten-free?
A: This recipe uses all-purpose flour, but you can try substituting with a gluten-free flour blend.
Conclusion
These Hot Chocolate Pepper
int Cookies are an absolute must-try for cookie lovers and holiday enthusiasts alike. Their delightful combination of flavors and textures makes them a standout treat that’s sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy making these cookies, and don’t forget to share your creations with us on Pinterest or Instagram!
Nutritional Information
Approximate per serving (1 cookie): 180 calories, 9g fat, 25g carbohydrates, 2g protein, 15mg cholesterol, 105mg sodium.
