Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are the perfect treat to embrace the cozy vibes of the holidays. With their rich chocolate flavor complemented by a refreshing burst of peppermint, these cookies satisfy your sweet tooth and bring a festive spirit to any gathering. The great news is that they are not only delicious but also simple to make, making them ideal for both experienced bakers and novices. Picture this: a warm cookie, just out of the oven, melting chocolate chips, and the crunch of candy cane sprinkled on top. It’s pure joy in each bite! Grab your apron, and let’s get started on these delightful Chocolate Peppermint Cookies that are sure to become a seasonal favorite in your home.

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Why This Recipe Works

This Chocolate Peppermint Cookies recipe provides a delightful blend of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint, creating a holiday treat that everyone loves. The simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it accessible for all skill levels. By using almond butter and natural sweeteners, the cookies maintain a moist texture and a flavor profile that perfectly harmonizes with the festive spirit.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

You’ll fall in love with these Chocolate Peppermint Cookies not only for their irresistible taste but also for their appealing texture—soft, chewy, and topped with festive crushed candy canes. They are flourless and naturally sweetened, making them a guilt-free indulgence, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home. Their quick preparation means you can whip them up with minimal fuss, leaving more time for making memories.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these tasty treats:

• 1 cup drippy almond butter (recommended: Wild Friends)
• 1 flax egg (or 1 regular egg)
• ½ cup maple syrup
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt (omit if using salted almond butter)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• ½ cup chocolate chips (recommended: Lily’s)
• Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (for topping)

Preparing the Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet

First, preheat your oven to 350ºF. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This step prevents the cookies from sticking, making cleanup a breeze.

Combine Main Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the almond butter, flax egg (or regular egg), maple syrup, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Mix everything together until fully incorporated, ensuring you create a smooth and cohesive batter.

Fold in Chocolate Chips

Next, gently fold in the chocolate chips into the batter. This step ensures an even distribution of chocolate, so every bite is deliciously melty and chocolaty.

Scoop Cookie Dough

Using a small or medium cooking scoop (or a tablespoon), portion out the cookie batter onto the prepared baking sheet. Remember to leave about 1 ½ inches between each cookie to allow for spreading when they bake.

Press Cookies Down

Once the cookie dough has been placed on the sheet, slightly press down on the cookies to flatten them. This little push helps them bake evenly and adds to their delightful texture.

Bake the Cookies

Now, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake; you want them soft and chewy.

Crush Peppermint Candies

While the cookies are baking, you can prepare the peppermint topping. Place unwrapped peppermint candies or candy canes in a plastic bag and use the back of a wooden spoon to crush them into small bits. This step takes moments and adds a festive touch.

Add Toppings and Cool

Once the cookies are done baking, remove them from the oven and immediately sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies on top. It looks beautiful and adds an extra crunch! Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Peppermint Cookies really shine when served alongside a warm cup of cocoa or peppermint tea. For a festive presentation, plate them with other holiday treats or gift them in a decorated jar. They’re perfect for sharing or as a delightful treat enjoyed by yourself.

Tips for Success

• Make certain your almond butter is drippy for the best texture in the cookies.
• If you choose to use a regular egg, ensure it’s at room temperature. This helps it blend better into the batter.
• Adjust the amount of peppermint extract based on your personal taste preference; it’s all about what you love!

Variations

• Another option is to substitute almond butter with cashew or sunbutter. Each will give a unique twist to the flavor.
• Feel free to add crushed nuts or dried fruit for an added texture and flavor that makes these cookies even more delicious.
• For a vegan version, just be sure to use dairy-free chocolate chips.

Storage Tips

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’d like them to last longer, consider freezing them. They can be stored in the freezer for up to two months, letting you enjoy them long after they’ve baked.

Pairing Ideas

Enjoy these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. Alternatively, they pair nicely with a glass of almond milk or a rich dark hot chocolate, perfect for cozy evenings.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different nut butter?
Yes! You can substitute almond butter with other nut butters like peanut or cashew butter, but keep in mind that it might alter the flavor a bit.

2. How do I make a flax egg?
To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to gel, and then it’s ready to use.

3. Can I omit the peppermint extract?
Absolutely! If peppermint isn’t your thing, feel free to skip it or replace it with almond extract for a different, yet tasty flavor.

4. Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, these Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are gluten-free since they don’t contain any flour.

5. How do I store leftover cookies?
You can store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, pop them in the freezer!

These Chocolate Peppermint Cookies elevate any holiday gathering and offer a delightful array of flavors and textures. The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with the refreshing peppermint, creating a memorable treat that captures the essence of the season. Soft, chewy, and straightforward to make, this recipe is a must-try for pastry enthusiasts and home bakers alike. Whether you keep them all for yourself or share them with friends and family, these cookies are sure to become a cherished addition to your holiday treats.

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