Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of holiday chocolate peppermint kiss cookies! The perfect combination of rich cocoa and minty kisses makes these cookies a must-have for the festive season. Whether you’re planning a holiday cookie swap or simply want to indulge in some sweet treats, this easy peppermint kiss cookie recipe is sure to impress both friends and family.
Imagine the aroma of freshly baked cookies filling your kitchen, the sound of laughter and joy in the air, and the anticipation of sinking your teeth into a warm, gooey cookie with a delightful minty surprise in the center. These cocoa mint cookies are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, with their festive red and white appearance.
With a history rooted in holiday traditions and a flavor profile that screams Christmas cheer, these homemade holiday peppermint cookies are a classic favorite for many. In this article, we will explore the art of baking chocolate peppermint kiss cookies, sharing valuable baking tips, and guiding you through the process of creating these delectable treats at home.
So, grab your apron, preheat your oven, and let’s dive into the world of holiday baking with these irresistible chocolate mint cookies!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes this cocoa mint cookies recipe truly special is its perfect blend of flavors and textures. The rich cocoa base combined with the refreshing burst of peppermint from the kiss in the center creates a harmonious balance that is both comforting and invigorating.
This recipe is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes. The vibrant red and white colors of the peppermint kiss against the dark chocolate backdrop make these cookies a visually stunning addition to any holiday dessert spread.
Furthermore, these cookies are incredibly easy to make, requiring simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The end result is a batch of cookies that are soft, chewy, and packed with irresistible chocolate and mint flavors—a true crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker looking to add a new recipe to your repertoire or a beginner eager to impress with homemade holiday treats, this easy peppermint kiss cookie recipe is the perfect choice.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create these delightful holiday chocolate peppermint kiss cookies:
– All-purpose flour – Cocoa powder – Baking soda – Salt – Unsalted butter – Granulated sugar – Brown sugar – Eggs – Vanilla extract – Peppermint extract – Hershey’s Candy Cane Kisses
Optional ingredient substitutions: – For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. – To make these cookies vegan, substitute the butter with plant-based butter and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) for each egg.
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to ensure smooth mixing and optimal cookie texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of holiday chocolate peppermint kiss cookies:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. 3. In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. 4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts. 5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms. 6. Shape the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. 7. Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until set but still soft. 8. Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately press a Hershey’s Candy Cane Kiss into the center of each cookie. 9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro tip: To prevent the Hershey’s Kiss from melting too much, chill it in the refrigerator before pressing it into the warm cookies.
Expert Tips for Success
For the best results when making these holiday chocolate peppermint kiss cookies, keep the following tips in mind:
– Do not overmix the cookie dough once you add the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. – Make sure to space the cookie dough balls evenly on the baking sheet to allow for spreading during baking. – To enhance the minty flavor, you can add a small amount of finely crushed peppermint candies to the cookie dough.
Avoid overbaking the cookies to ensure a soft and chewy texture. Remember that the cookies will continue to set as they cool on the baking sheet.
Variations and Substitutions
Get creative with your holiday chocolate peppermint kiss cookies by trying out these variations:
– For a lower sugar option, reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the recipe or use a sugar substitute. – Experiment with different flavors of Hershey’s Kisses, such as dark chocolate or caramel-filled, for unique twists on this classic recipe. – Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking for a sweet and salty flavor combination.
If you have dietary restrictions, feel free to customize the recipe to suit your needs. You can easily make these cookies gluten-free or vegan by following the ingredient substitutions mentioned earlier.
Serving Suggestions
These holiday chocolate peppermint kiss cookies are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, with the warm chocolate center oozing out with each bite. Serve them alongside a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate indulgent experience.
For a festive presentation, arrange the cookies on a decorative platter and sprinkle some crushed peppermint candies or powdered sugar on top for a snowy effect. These cookies also make wonderful gifts for friends and loved ones during the holiday season.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time and freeze them?
A: Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough in advance, shape it into balls, and freeze them. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen cookie dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: How should I store these cookies?
A: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to three months.
Final Thoughts
With their irresistible combination of rich cocoa and minty kisses, these holiday chocolate peppermint kiss cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday gathering, a cookie exchange, or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea, these cookies are guaranteed to spread joy and cheer.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps outlined in this recipe, and treat yourself to a batch of these decadent holiday cookies. The magic of Christmas comes alive in every bite of these peppermint chocolate treats, making them a perfect addition to your holiday baking repertoire. Happy baking!
Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Kiss Cookies — rich cocoa + minty kiss
Indulge in the perfect blend of rich cocoa and refreshing peppermint with these delightful holiday chocolate peppermint kiss cookies. These soft and chewy cookies feature a Hershey’s Candy Cane Kiss nestled in the center, creating a festive and delicious treat for the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 24 Hershey's Candy Cane Kisses
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla and peppermint extracts.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
- Shape dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, then press a Hershey's Candy Cane Kiss into the center of each cookie.
- Cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition Facts
