There’s something enchantingly festive about the smell of fresh-baked chocolate cookies wafting through the house, especially when they’re filled with a delightful surprise. Picture this: you take a warm cookie out of the oven, the edges perfectly crisp, and press a cool, peppermint kiss into its center, melting just enough to create the ideal sweet and minty pairing.
I discovered this Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Cookies recipe during a holiday baking spree, and it instantly became a favorite among friends and family. Not only do these cookies offer a delicious twist on traditional flavors, but they also bring a sense of joy that lifts the spirits during the colder months. The simplicity of the ingredients calls to home cooks of all skill levels, making it an ideal choice for those who crave homemade treats without the fuss.
So, gather your ingredients, and let’s make something special that’s sure to impress at your next gathering or cozy night in!
Why You’ll Love Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Cookies?
Irresistible holiday treat: These cookies blend rich chocolate with refreshing peppermint for a festive delight.
Quick and Easy preparation: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have these cookies ready in no time.
Crowd-Pleasing appeal: Perfect for parties or holiday gatherings, everyone will love the surprise in every bite.
Versatile flavors: Ideal for decorating and customizing; feel free to add your favorite toppings!
Warm and Melty wonders: The contrast of warm cookies and cool kisses creates an unforgettable experience.
Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful twist on a classic favorite!
Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- ½ cup unsalted butter – at room temperature for easy creaming.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – creates the perfect sweetness and texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the chocolate flavor beautifully.
- 1 large egg – binds all the ingredients to create a rich dough.
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour – provides structure to your cookies.
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – infuses a deep chocolate flavor that’s irresistible.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – balances sweetness and enhances the overall taste.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
For the Topping
- 24 candy cane kisses – these peppermint treats provide a delightful surprise center.
With these carefully selected ingredients, your Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Cookies will surely bring joy and warmth to your home!
How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare two large baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or a reusable baking mat. This step ensures your cookies bake perfectly without sticking.
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Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer on high speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and smooth.
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Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Switch your hand mixer to low speed and blend until everything is well combined and creamy.
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Mix in the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking soda. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to overbeat. Use a spatula to scrape down the sides, ensuring all dry ingredients are incorporated into the dough.
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Shape the dough into balls: use clean hands to scoop about 1 heaping tablespoon of dough for each cookie. Place them onto the lined baking sheet, leaving a couple of inches between each round to allow for spreading.
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Bake for 12-14 minutes, watching for the edges to become crispy to the touch while the center stays soft. The aroma will fill your kitchen!
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Prepare the candy cane kisses while the cookies bake. Unwrap them and place them in a bowl, then pop them in the freezer to keep them cool for later.
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Press a cold peppermint kiss into the center of each freshly baked cookie immediately after they come out of the oven. The heat will melt them just enough for that perfect melty center!
Optional: Drizzle some melted chocolate over the cookies for an added touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Cookies?
There’s something delightful about creating a full meal to accompany these festive treats, ensuring every moment feels special.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: The deep cocoa flavors in hot chocolate enhance the chocolatey goodness of the cookies, creating a cozy pairing. Top it off with whipped cream for a luxurious touch!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream against the chewy cookies provides a delightful temperature contrast. The vanilla flavor will beautifully balance the peppermint zing.
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Minty Fruit Salad: Combine fresh fruits like strawberries, kiwi, and mint leaves for a refreshing and vibrant side dish. This light option cleanses the palate while complementing the cookies’ flavor.
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Cranberry Spritzer: Serve a sparkling cranberry drink to add a festive sparkle to your gathering. The tartness of cranberry juice pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cookies.
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: Add elegance to your dessert table by including chocolate-dipped strawberries. Their freshness and chocolatey richness echo the flavors in the cookies.
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Coffee or Espresso: For a pick-me-up, pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or espresso. The bitter notes of the brew contrast wonderfully with the sweet chocolate, enhancing the overall experience.
Enjoy crafting a memorable meal alongside your charming Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Cookies!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Cookies
Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and soft.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer cookie, you can refrigerate them for up to a week—just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezer: To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to an airtight container separated by parchment paper. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Cookies, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for that freshly baked taste.
Expert Tips for Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Cookies
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter is softened and the egg is at room temperature. This ensures a smooth, even dough that bakes beautifully.
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Don’t Overmix the Dough: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft, chewy goodness.
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Space Them Out: Leave enough space between the cookie dough balls on the baking sheet. This allows them to spread properly while baking, preventing them from merging into one large cookie.
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Cool Kisses: Remember to chill the candy cane kisses in the freezer before pressing them into the cookies. This helps them maintain their shape and avoid melting too quickly.
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Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies during the last few minutes of baking. The edges should be crispy, but the center should still look soft; they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Cookies Variations
Customize your cookies to fit your taste and dietary needs with these fun and creative ideas!
- Minty Chocolate: Swap out candy cane kisses for peppermint bark pieces; they’ll add a delightful crunch.
- Nutty Surprise: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a rich, nutty flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil and a dairy-free chocolate kiss to keep the rich taste while catering to lactose intolerant guests.
- Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper in the dough for a surprising twist that uniquely balances out the sweetness.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, ensuring everyone can join in the fun!
- Double Chocolate: Increase the cocoa powder to ¾ cup for an ultra-chocolatey flavor that will satisfy any chocoholic.
- Frosted Delight: After baking, top cookies with a light drizzle of white chocolate frosting for an extra layer of sweetness and decoration.
- Chunky Texture: Fold in chocolate chips and mini marshmallows for a fun, chewy texture that brings extra joy in every mouthful.
With these variations, you’re all set to create your own memorable take on these delightful cookies!
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, perfect for busy bakers! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix and form the dough into balls, then refrigerate them in an airtight container. On the day of baking, just preheat your oven, place the chilled dough balls on the baking sheets, and bake as directed. For even more convenience, you can also unwrap and freeze the candy cane kisses in advance, storing them in the freezer until you’re ready to press them into the hot cookies. This way, you’ll have your holiday treats ready in a snap without compromising on that delicious, fresh-baked quality!
Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best candy canes for my kisses?
Absolutely! Look for candy canes that are free of dark spots or cracks, as these indicate freshness. When choosing candy cane kisses, opt for those with vibrant packaging and a shiny appearance; this often means they’re fresher.
What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
To keep your Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Cookies fresh, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to maintain their softness, consider adding a slice of bread to the container; it helps to keep cookies moist!
Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the dough! Simply scoop the shaped cookie balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment. Freeze them until solid (about 1 hour), then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much in the oven?
Very! If your cookies spread excessively, it could be due to softened butter that was too warm or not enough flour. For a firmer cookie, try chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. You can also slightly increase the flour ratio if you notice a consistent spreading issue.
Are these cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes! This Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Cookies recipe is naturally nut-free, making it suitable for many dietary needs. Just ensure that your chocolate kisses are also from a nut-free manufacturer to maintain safety for those with allergies.
How long do the cookies last in the fridge?
You can store your cookies in the fridge for up to a week! They will remain delicious, though the texture will be firmer than at room temperature. Be sure to let them sit out for a bit before serving, as that will bring back some of their original softness and flavor.
Irresistible Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Cookies to Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare two large baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or a reusable baking mat.
- Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl using a hand mixer on high speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and blend on low speed until well combined.
- Mix in the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking soda. Stir gently to combine, being careful not to overbeat.
- Shape the dough into balls, using about 1 heaping tablespoon of dough for each cookie. Place them onto the lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes until edges are crispy but center stays soft.
- Prepare the candy cane kisses while the cookies bake and pop them in the freezer to keep them cool.
- Press a cold peppermint kiss into the center of each cookie immediately after they come out of the oven.