Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookies: Decadent Holiday Delight

Growing up, my grandmother’s kitchen was always filled with the comforting scent of freshly baked goods. During the holidays, one of my favorites was her Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookies. These cookies combined the rich taste of cocoa with a refreshing hint of peppermint, creating a delightful treat that felt like a warm hug on a cold winter day. Inspired by those cherished memories, I’ve crafted a version that captures the essence of those moments, allowing you to share in the joy of baking something special from scratch.

The magic of these Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookies lies in their ability to evoke nostalgia while offering a unique twist on a classic flavor. As you bake these cookies, the aroma will fill your home with warmth and anticipation, perfect for gatherings with family and friends. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of chocolate and peppermint, reminiscent of sipping hot cocoa by the fireplace.

At GrandMmaDelights, I strive to inspire others to explore the joy of home baking. These cookies are not just about satisfying your sweet tooth—they’re about creating memories and moments of connection. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is designed to be approachable and rewarding.

Join me as we dive into the delightful world of Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookies, where simple ingredients transform into something truly special. Let’s embark on this flavorful adventure together, celebrating the love and warmth that only homemade treats can bring.

Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookies

---

• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: About 24 cookies

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the perfect holiday treat with our recipe for Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookies. Learn how to make these delicious and festive cookies today!

---

Ingredients

• – 2 1/4 cups (540 ml) all-purpose flour (280 grams)
• – 1/3 cup (80 ml) unsweetened cocoa powder
• – 1 teaspoon (5 ml) baking soda
• – 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) kosher salt
• – 8 tablespoons (120 ml) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature (1/2 cup (120 ml) or 1 stick)
• – 3/4 cup (180 ml) white sugar (150 grams)
• – 3/4 cup (180 ml) packed light brown sugar (150 grams)
• – 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) peppermint extract
• – 2 large eggs
• – 1 cup (240 ml) white chocolate chips
• – 3/4 cup (180 ml) fruit juice infused dried cranberries (see note)

---

Instructions

1. Set your oven to a temperature of 350°F / 177°C.
2. Cover baking trays with parchment paper or a Silpat mat. (Note: Avoid placing cookies directly on the tray to prevent melted candy cane pieces from sticking.)
3. In a medium-sized bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt using a whisk. Put this mixture aside.
4. With a stand mixer or handheld mixer, cream the butter until it’s smooth. Gradually add both types of sugar and beat until the mixture becomes light and airy, which should take around 3 minutes.
5. Incorporate the peppermint extract and eggs, mixing on a low setting until the eggs are fully blended in, pausing occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
6. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on a low speed until just combined.
7. Add in the white chocolate chips, stirring lightly until they are evenly mixed throughout the dough.
8. Spread crushed candy canes in a shallow dish.
9. Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the dough, form into balls, and press the tops into the crushed candy canes.
10. Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring the candy cane side is facing upwards, and leave a few inches between each cookie. Bake for 9-10 minutes, or until the centers are just set.
11. Move the cookies to a wire rack to cool down.
12. Keep the cookies in a sealed container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for up to a week.

Notes

• Consider adding a bit more peppermint extract for a stronger peppermint flavor.
• Use high-quality cocoa powder to enhance the chocolate taste.
• Try different dried fruits for a unique twist on the traditional cranberries.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 7g
• Protein: 2g

Keywords: peppermint cookies, white chocolate, candy cane, holiday baking, festive dessert

Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookies: A Delicious Journey

Fundamentals

The key to making perfect Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookies starts with understanding the fundamentals of baking. You’ll need all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and baking soda as your base. These ingredients create the structure and texture of the cookies, ensuring they are chewy and soft.

Incorporating peppermint extract is what sets these cookies apart, infusing them with a refreshing twist. The combination of white and brown sugars adds depth and sweetness, balancing the rich cocoa flavor. Don’t forget the kosher salt—it enhances the taste by bringing out the natural flavors of the other ingredients.

Butter plays a crucial role in achieving the right consistency. It should be softened to room temperature to ensure it creams well with the sugars, resulting in a light and airy dough. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture in your cookies.

Preparation/Setup

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line your baking trays with parchment paper or a Silpat mat to prevent the cookies from sticking. This simple step ensures your cookies bake evenly and makes cleanup a breeze.

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients. Using a stand mixer or handheld mixer, cream the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the white and brown sugars, beating until the mixture is light and fluffy—about three minutes.

Mix in the peppermint extract and eggs on a low setting, ensuring the eggs are fully incorporated. Remember to pause occasionally and scrape down the sides of the bowl. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the white chocolate chips and dried cranberries, evenly distributing them throughout the dough.

Creating the Perfect Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookies

Technique

Mastering the technique of making Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookies involves attention to detail. Start by crushing candy canes and spreading them in a shallow dish. This step adds a festive touch and an additional layer of peppermint flavor.

Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of the dough and form them into balls. Press the tops into the crushed candy canes, ensuring they adhere well. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets with the candy cane side facing upwards, leaving ample space between each cookie.

Bake the cookies for 9-10 minutes, just until the centers are set. Overbaking can result in dry cookies, so keep a close eye on them. Once done, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for maintaining their chewy texture.

Tips and Tricks

For the best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature before creaming it with the sugars. This allows for better incorporation and a smoother dough. If your dough feels too sticky, you can refrigerate it for about 15 minutes before forming the balls.

Experiment with the level of peppermint extract according to your preference. A little goes a long way, so start with the recommended amount and adjust if you desire a stronger flavor. If you enjoy experimenting with different cookie recipes, you might also love trying these White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread Cookies or explore the delightful Carrot Cake Breakfast Cookies.

Achieving Cookie Perfection

Perfecting Results

Perfecting your Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookies involves a balance of technique and creativity. Consistency in dough size will help ensure even baking. Using a tablespoon to measure each portion is a helpful guide.

The combination of white chocolate chips and fruit juice infused dried cranberries adds a delightful contrast of flavors. The sweetness of the white chocolate complements the tartness of the cranberries, creating a flavorful experience in every bite.

For more cookie inspiration, you might want to try these unique Peach Cobbler Cookies, which offer a creative twist on classic flavors. Discover the joy of baking with different ingredients and see how they transform into delicious cookies.

Troubleshooting and Variations

If your cookies spread too much during baking, try chilling the dough before baking. This helps maintain their shape and prevents excess spreading. Adjusting the baking time slightly can also improve results, especially if you prefer softer or firmer cookies.

For a variation, consider substituting the white chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor profile. You can also experiment with different dried fruits, such as cherries or blueberries, to create new flavor combinations.

Serving and Storing Your Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookies

Serving and Presentation

When serving Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookies, presentation is key to enhancing the experience. Arrange them on a festive platter, showcasing the candy cane tops for a visually appealing display. These cookies make an excellent centerpiece for holiday gatherings or as a thoughtful gift for loved ones.

If you enjoy festive presentations, consider pairing these cookies with a warm beverage like hot cocoa or coffee. For more ideas on coffee-infused treats, explore these delightful Coffee Butter Cookies—a perfect complement to your cookie platter.

Pairings and Storage

Store your Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookies in a sealed container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week, retaining their chewy texture and delightful flavor. For longer storage, consider freezing them in an airtight container—simply thaw at room temperature before serving.

These cookies pair beautifully with a variety of beverages, making them a versatile choice for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with a glass of milk or your favorite tea, they’re sure to be a hit. For more adventurous flavor combinations, explore these Spicy Jalapeño Pickle Bacon Shots with Ranch Drizzle, offering a savory contrast to your sweet treat.

Conclusion

Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookies offer a delightful blend of flavors that evoke warmth and nostalgia. By mastering the fundamentals and using the right techniques, you can create cookies that are not only delicious but also visually appealing. The combination of peppermint and cocoa creates a memorable treat perfect for any occasion.

These cookies are a testament to the joy of home baking, allowing you to share moments of connection with loved ones. Their versatility in pairing and storage makes them a convenient choice for holiday gatherings and everyday indulgence. Explore the endless possibilities of cookies with GrandMmaDelights and discover the magic of baking from scratch.

FAQs – Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookies