Chocolate Peppermint Crunch Cookies are the perfect holiday treat, combining rich chocolate flavor with the refreshing taste of peppermint. These cookies are soft, chewy, and topped with a festive peppermint crunch, making them ideal for cookie swaps, holiday parties, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark chocolate)
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Cream the butter and sugars:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add eggs and flavorings:
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and peppermint extract, until well combined.
- Mix the dry ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Stir in the chocolate chips:
- Fold in the chocolate chips to evenly distribute them throughout the dough.
- Shape the cookies:
- Scoop the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Add the peppermint crunch:
- Gently press the crushed candy canes or peppermint candies into the top of each cookie dough ball.
- Bake the cookies:
- Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still slightly soft. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Cool and serve:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
These Chocolate Peppermint Crunch Cookies are soft, chewy, and filled with holiday cheer, making them a delightful treat to enjoy during the festive season!