Delicious Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies Recipe
There’s a magic in the air when it’s the holiday season, a spark that urges us to transform our cozy kitchens into enchanting bakeries. The delightful aroma of freshly baked Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies wafting through your home does a splendid job of making any day feel a little more special. Just imagine pulling a tray of these beauties from the oven, the surface glistening with powdered sugar like a soft blanket of snow, and the scent of rich cocoa and refreshing peppermint swirling around you.
Whether it’s a festive gathering or a rainy afternoon in December, these cookies instantly transport me back to childhood. I remember the joyful chaos of decorating the Christmas tree while waiting for mom to usher us into the kitchen, where she unveiled her latest batch. And let me tell you, nothing says “holiday cheer” quite like biting into a soft, chewy chocolate cookie with a hint of peppermint that reminds you of candy canes. Trust me, you’ll want to bake these at least twice this season!
Why You'll Love This Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies
- These delightful Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies transform simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies:
1 cup all-purpose flour – This provides structure to your cookies. Make sure it’s spooned and leveled for accuracy.
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Rich in flavor, this is the star ingredient for that chocolatey goodness we crave.
1 teaspoon baking powder – It helps the cookies rise and gives them that wonderfully soft texture.
1/4 teaspoon salt – A pinch complements the sweetness and balances the flavors perfectly.
3/4 cup granulated sugar – This sweetens the cookies, contributes to their chewy texture, and helps them brown nicely.
1/4 cup vegetable oil – Using oil here keeps the cookies moist and tender; it’s a little secret to keep them soft.
2 large eggs – These are crucial for binding everything together and providing richness.
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract – The essence of the season! This brings a refreshing twist that makes them festive.
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a warm, sweet note to the overall flavor profile.
1/2 cup powdered sugar – Perfect for rolling the dough balls, creating that signature crinkle and snow-like appearance.
How to Make Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies:
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until combined. This ensures the dry ingredients are well-distributed, leading to perfectly cooked cookies.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the granulated sugar and vegetable oil together until smooth. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by both the peppermint and vanilla extracts. The mixture should look glossy and lovely!
Step 3: Bring It All Together
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Don’t forget to scrape the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is incorporated. The dough will be thick and sticky, and that’s just how we like it!
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for at least 3 hours, or overnight for best results. Chilling is essential to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Step 5: Preheat and Prepare
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This step guarantees non-stick baking glory!
Step 6: Form the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough, roll them into balls in your hands, and coat them generously in powdered sugar. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Bake your cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, until they have a crinkled top but remain soft and chewy inside. Let them cool on the tray for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Now, grab a cup of hot cocoa, serve these charming Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies warm, and watch them become an instant hit! These cookies not only dazzle the eyes but also spread cheer with every delightful bite. Happy baking!
This showstopping Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest. Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies Cooking Process
Start by mixing your dry ingredients before combining them with your wet ingredients to achieve a uniform dough. Chill the dough for a smoother consistency, which will enhance the crinkling effect during baking for those coveted cookies everyone loves.
Add Your Touch to Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies
Consider adding crushed candy canes or chocolate chips for a delightful twist. You could even swap out the peppermint extract for orange or almond extract for an equally festive flavor. Get creative with garnishes like sprinkles for a little extra flair!
Storing & Reheating Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To enjoy them warm, briefly reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, bringing back that fresh-baked flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies
- This professional-quality Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
There’s nothing quite like the memory of baking these cookies for my family one holiday season. As soon as they came out of the oven, the entire house was filled with that heavenly chocolate and peppermint aroma. My kids couldn’t wait to dive in, and their smiles were the best reward.
FAQs About Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies
What are Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies?
Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies are delectable treats that combine a rich chocolate flavor with a refreshing hint of peppermint. These cookies are characterized by their crinkly tops and fudgy texture, making them a festive favorite during the holiday season. The dough is rolled in powdered sugar before baking, creating a delightful contrast with the soft interior. Ideal for sharing during gatherings, these cookies are sure to impress holiday guests and offer the perfect sweet ending to any holiday meal.
How do you get the crinkle effect in Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies?
Achieving that beautiful crinkle effect in Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies largely depends on the chilling time of the dough. When the dough is chilled, it firms up, which helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. As they bake, the edges set while the center remains soft, causing the tops to crack and form those signature crinkle lines. This contrast not only looks appealing but also adds texture to each bite, making the cookies irresistibly delicious.
Can I customize my Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies?
Absolutely! While the traditional recipe is divine, customizing your Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies can add a personal touch. Consider mixing in chocolate chips, crushed candy canes, or even orange zest for a unique twist. You can also replace peppermint extract with other flavoring options like almond or vanilla to switch things up. These variations can help you create a cookie that reflects your personal taste while still keeping that classic crinkle look.
How should I store Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies?
To keep your Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week if stored properly. If you prefer to enjoy them warm, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to revive that soft, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. For long-term storage, consider freezing the baked cookies. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Conclusion for Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies
Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies are the perfect addition to your festive baking repertoire. Their rich chocolate flavor paired with refreshing peppermint creates a delightful treat that everyone will love. The process of making these cookies is simple yet fulfilling, and their crinkly tops provide an attractive presentation. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh from the oven or sharing them with friends and family, these cookies are sure to spread holiday cheer. Happy baking!
Holiday Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk sugar with vegetable oil, eggs, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually stir dry mixture into wet until combined. Dough will be thick and sticky.
- Cover and chill dough for at least 3 hours or overnight.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized dough balls, roll in hands, then coat generously in powdered sugar.
- Place on prepared baking sheets 2 inches apart.
- Bake 10–12 minutes until crinkled on top but soft inside.
- Let cool 5 minutes on tray, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve warm or store for later in an airtight container.
