Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies – Decadent Holiday Delight

As the festive season approaches, my kitchen becomes a haven of tantalizing aromas and sweet delights. One of my most cherished recipes is for Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies. These cookies bring back delightful memories of holiday gatherings, where their rich chocolatey goodness and refreshing peppermint notes stole the spotlight. The combination of flavors not only delights the palate but also evokes a sense of warmth and joy, making them a staple in my holiday baking.

Creating these cookies is a tradition that I hold dear, as it brings family and friends together. The process is not just about mixing ingredients but about the laughter and stories shared over bowls of dough and trays of cookies. The aroma of freshly baked Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies wafting through the house is an invitation to gather around and indulge in the simple pleasures of homemade treats.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, these cookies are a joy to make and even more delightful to share. The magic lies in transforming basic pantry ingredients into something truly special. The Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies have a way of elevating any occasion, turning an ordinary day into a celebration of flavor and togetherness.

Join me on this delicious journey as we explore the intricacies of making these delightful cookies. With each step, you’ll discover the joy and satisfaction that comes from creating something with love and sharing it with those who matter most. Let’s dive into the world of Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies and embrace the festive spirit they bring.

Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies

---

• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 100 minutes
• Yield: 12 cookies 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the delightful combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint with our irresistible Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies recipe. Learn how to bake these festive treats today!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup (240 ml) white sugar
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 3 tsp (15 ml) peppermint extract, or more to taste
• 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp (5 ml) baking powder
• 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) salt
• 1/2 cup (90 g) dark chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup (30 g) powdered sugar

---

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, blend together the granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and vegetable oil until they are thoroughly mixed.
2. Add the eggs and peppermint extract, beating until the mixture is smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the cocoa blend, stirring until just combined.
4. Fold in the dark chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
5. Cover the dough and chill it in the freezer for one hour, or place it in the refrigerator for a minimum of three hours.
6. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat. Prepare two baking trays with parchment paper.
7. Take the dough out of the freezer and scoop out rounded tablespoons. Shape them into balls using clean hands.
8. Coat each dough ball in powdered sugar and arrange them on the lined baking sheets.
9. Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cookie comes out mostly clean.

Notes

• Use high-quality cocoa powder for a more intense chocolate flavor.
• Be cautious not to overmix the dough to avoid a tough texture.
• Chill the dough adequately before baking to ensure the best results.

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

Nutrition

• Calories: 167 kcal
• Fat: 7 g
• Protein: 3 g

Keywords: chocolate cookies, peppermint crinkle, holiday baking, homemade dessert, festive treats

Crafting the Perfect Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies

Fundamentals

To embark on the journey of making Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies, start with understanding the fundamental ingredients and their roles. The granulated sugar and unsweetened cocoa powder form the base, providing sweetness and a rich chocolate flavor. Vegetable oil ensures a moist and tender crumb, while the eggs bind the mixture together for a smooth consistency.

The key to achieving the signature minty taste lies in the peppermint extract. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your preference, but remember that a little goes a long way. The all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt create the structure of the cookies, allowing them to rise and hold their shape. Finally, dark chocolate chips add bursts of intense chocolate flavor, complementing the peppermint notes beautifully.

Preparation/Setup

Begin the preparation by gathering all your ingredients and tools. A large mixing bowl and a separate bowl for dry ingredients are essential. Ensure your baking trays are ready, lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to save time later. Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the perfect texture, so plan accordingly.

Mix the granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and vegetable oil in a large bowl until thoroughly combined. Beat in the eggs and peppermint extract, creating a smooth mixture. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the cocoa mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the dark chocolate chips to evenly distribute them throughout the dough.

Mastering the Technique for Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies

Technique

The technique for crafting perfect Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies lies in the details. After preparing the dough, chilling it is a must. This step allows the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up, making it easier to handle. You can chill the dough in the freezer for one hour or in the refrigerator for a minimum of three hours.

Once chilled, scoop rounded tablespoons of dough and shape them into balls. Rolling the dough balls in powdered sugar creates the iconic crinkle effect as they bake. The sugar coating not only adds sweetness but also gives the cookies their characteristic appearance, with cracks revealing the chocolatey interior.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips to ensure your Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies turn out perfectly every time. First, use a small cookie scoop for uniformity, ensuring even baking. When rolling the dough balls in powdered sugar, coat them generously for a striking contrast. If you love the combination of chocolate and peppermint, try experimenting with the amount of peppermint extract to find your ideal balance.

Another tip is to slightly underbake the cookies for a fudgy center. Keep an eye on them in the oven, and check with a toothpick. It should come out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. This technique ensures a soft, chewy texture that pairs wonderfully with the crisp exterior.

Perfecting Your Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies

Perfecting Results

To perfect your Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies, consistency is key. Aim for uniform sizes when scooping the dough, as this ensures even baking. Pay attention to the oven temperature and baking time, adjusting as needed based on your oven’s performance. Each batch may vary slightly, so use visual and tactile cues to gauge doneness.

Ensure the cookies cool completely before transferring them to a wire rack. This step prevents them from breaking apart and allows the flavors to develop further. For a professional finish, consider using a sifter to dust a final layer of powdered sugar over the cooled cookies, enhancing their visual appeal.

Troubleshooting and Variations

Encountered issues while baking? Here are some troubleshooting tips. If your cookies spread too much, ensure the dough is adequately chilled. If they’re too dense, check the freshness of your baking powder. For those who enjoy experimenting, consider incorporating other flavors, like a hint of almond extract or a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for added texture.

For more delightful variations, explore other crinkle cookies recipes and satisfy your sweet tooth. These cookies are versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences, making them a wonderful addition to any holiday cookie platter.

Serving and Storing Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies

Serving and Presentation

When it comes to serving Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies, presentation is everything. Arrange them on a festive platter, and let their powdered sugar coating glisten under the holiday lights. These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of hot cocoa or coffee, making them a perfect treat for cozy gatherings.

For a creative touch, consider pairing these cookies with other varieties from GrandMmaDelights. Mix and match flavors to create a delightful cookie assortment that will impress your guests and add variety to your dessert spread.

Pairings and Storage

Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies pair well with a variety of beverages, from classic hot chocolate to a refreshing glass of milk. For storage, place the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week or frozen for longer shelf life.

For more cookie inspiration, check out these White Chocolate Cranberry Cookies, which offer a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Storing different cookie varieties together can infuse them with shared aromas and flavors, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

Conclusion

The journey of creating Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies is as rewarding as the final product. These cookies showcase the perfect blend of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint, wrapped in a visually appealing crinkle effect. With each batch, you not only create delicious treats but also build cherished memories of time spent with loved ones.

The utility of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility, allowing you to adapt and experiment with flavors to suit any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a festive holiday or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these cookies stand out as a delightful choice. Embrace the joy of baking and sharing these treats, and let them become a beloved part of your culinary repertoire.

FAQs – Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies