Name: Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies for a Festive Treat
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour); ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Use Dutch-process for darker color); 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt (Sea salt can be used for a different flavor); ½ cup unsalted butter (Softened but slightly firm); 1 cup granulated sugar (Natural sweeteners may alter texture); ½ cup brown sugar (Replace with coconut sugar for a healthier option); 1 large egg (Use a flax egg for an egg-free version); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Use pure vanilla for best taste); ¼ cup milk (Can substitute with plant-based milk); 1 cup mini chocolate chips (Optional for extra richness); 1 cup crushed peppermint candies (Substitute with any mint-flavored candy); 24 pieces peppermint-striped chocolate kisses (Can use any variety of chocolate kisses)

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As I turned the corner of my kitchen, the intoxicating scent of peppermint and chocolate engulfed me like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s the kind of aroma that transports you straight to cozy holiday gatherings and joyful cookie exchanges. With my Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies, I’ve combined a classic treat with a festive twist that’s guaranteed to dazzle your friends and family. These cookies offer the perfect blend of rich cocoa flavor and a refreshing peppermint kick, making them an irresistible choice for your holiday dessert table. Plus, they’re easy to whip up and freeze beautifully, so you can have your very own cookie stash ready for any festive occasion. Are you ready to bring some cheer into your kitchen with these delightful treats?

Why are Peppermint Chocolate Cookies a must-try?

Festive Twist: By combining classic chocolate cookies with refreshing peppermint, you create a holiday gem that’s sure to impress.

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all skill levels.

Cocoa Delight: The rich chocolate base pairs harmoniously with the minty chocolate kiss, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.

Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for cookie exchanges or family gatherings, these cookies are sure to vanish from the platter!

Freezable: Bake a big batch and store some for later—great for spontaneous holiday cravings or surprise guests.

Whether you’re cozying up with a cup of hot cocoa or hosting a festive get-together, these Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies will be a delightful addition to your holiday spread!

Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure and texture; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor; use Dutch-process cocoa for a darker color and milder taste.
• Baking soda – A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; sea salt can be used for a different flavor profile.
• Unsalted butter – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened but still slightly firm. Can substitute with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cookies; natural sweeteners like honey or agave can be used but may alter texture.
• Brown sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor; replace it with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
• Large egg – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture; for an egg-free version, use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water).
• Vanilla extract – Enhances flavor; use pure vanilla for the best taste.
• Milk – Helps in mixing the dough; substitute with almond milk or any plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
• Mini chocolate chips (optional) – Adds extra richness; can be omitted for a lighter version.

For the Topping
• Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes – Provides festive flair and flavor; any mint-flavored candy can be a substitute.
• Peppermint-striped chocolate kisses – The centerpiece of the cookie; use any chocolate kiss variety for an alternate flavor.

These Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies will elevate your holiday baking with their delightful flavors and festive appeal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure your Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies have a non-stick surface during baking. This will keep them intact and allow for easy removal once they’re done.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until completely combined. This step is crucial as it ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the dry ingredients, leading to evenly risen cookies with perfect texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together. Mix on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creates the right base and ensures your Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies are soft and delectable.

Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Next, add in one large egg, pure vanilla extract, and milk to the butter-sugar mixture. Continue mixing until all the wet ingredients are well combined. This will help to achieve a cohesive batter, ensuring the lovely peppermint and chocolate flavors meld together beautifully in your cookies.

Step 5: Combine Everything
Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. If you’re opting for extra richness, now is the time to fold in mini chocolate chips. Be careful not to overmix—this will keep your Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies tender and delightful.

Step 6: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes. Chilling is key to helping the cookies maintain their shape during baking, resulting in perfect, chewy centers surrounded by a delightful chocolate base.

Step 7: Shape Cookies
Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator. Roll it into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. As you shape the balls, handle the dough gently, ensuring it stays cool and that your Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies turn out beautifully.

Step 8: Bake
Slide the baking sheets into the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them—the edges should look set, while the centers will remain slightly soft. This balance is essential for achieving that chewy texture packed with yummy chocolate flavor.

Step 9: Add Kisses
As soon as you take the cookies out of the oven, press a peppermint-striped chocolate kiss firmly into the center of each cookie. The heat from the cookies will help melt the kisses just enough to create a deliciously gooey center for your Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies.

Step 10: Top with Peppermint
While the cookies are still warm, sprinkle the tops with crushed peppermint candies or candy canes. This not only adds a pop of color but also a festive minty crunch that perfectly complements the chocolatey goodness of your cookies.

Step 11: Cool
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Afterward, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for allowing the cookies to firm up while still retaining their soft, chewy centers—a perfect treat to share during the holidays!

What to Serve with Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies

Indulging in these festive cookies isn’t just a standalone treat; pairing them with complementary flavors will elevate your entire holiday experience.

Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm, creamy cup of hot chocolate brings out the chocolatey depth while balancing the refreshing peppermint notes beautifully.
Peppermint Tea: This aromatic tea enhances the minty freshness in the cookies, creating a cozy and comforting atmosphere perfect for winter evenings.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside warm cookies for a delightful temperature contrast and a creamy counterpart to the festive flavors.
Coffee: A rich, dark roast coffee provides a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, providing a comforting pick-me-up that resonates with the holidays.
Chocolate Ganache: For an indulgent touch, drizzle warm chocolate ganache over your cookies. This will amplify that rich chocolate flavor and make each cookie even more decadent.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad with berries and mint adds a light, refreshing element that beautifully balances the richness of the cookies, making it a well-rounded dessert spread.
Mixed Nuts: A bowl of savory mixed nuts adds a crunchy contrast and a touch of saltiness, enhancing your cookie experience with lovely textures and flavors.
Spiced Mulled Wine: Warm spiced mulled wine not only captures the essence of the holiday season but also pairs harmoniously with the peppermint and chocolate for an elegant touch.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling some warm caramel sauce over each cookie introduces a gooey sweetness that beautifully complements the chocolate, creating a delightful flavor explosion.

These pairings will not only enrich your indulgent moments but also establish a beautiful holiday table that everyone will cherish!

Variations & Substitutions for Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these cookies to fit your taste and dietary preferences!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend for a delightful cookie option everyone can enjoy.
Dairy-Free: Replace unsalted butter with coconut oil and use almond milk to create deliciously dairy-free treats.
Nutty Add-In: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra chewy texture and nutty flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.
Rich Dark Chocolate: Swap mini chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips to enhance the rich flavor profile of these festive cookies.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a surprising warmth that balances the coolness of peppermint.
Candy Variation: Try using crushed peppermint bark instead of candies for an even richer peppermint experience.
Cookie Variation: For a twist, form the dough into cookie bars and top with crushed peppermint and chocolate kisses before baking.
Try Different Kisses: Use caramel-filled kisses or sea salt chocolate kisses for a unique flavor experience that keeps everyone guessing.

Feel inspired? Whether you’re whipping up these Chocolate Chip Cookie treats for a festive gathering or indulging in some cozy Chocolate Peanut Butter snacks, the possibilities are endless!

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and flavorful, ready to enjoy whenever you crave a festive treat.

Fridge: You can refrigerate the cookies if you prefer a chilled version. Store them in an airtight container for up to 7 days, though they may lose some of their original texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months, making them perfect for future celebrations.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply warm the frozen Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. They’ll regain their delightful texture and flavor!

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies are ideal for meal prep, making your holiday baking a breeze! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours ahead; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. Chilling not only enhances the flavors but also helps retain that perfect cookie shape. If you want to prep even further in advance, roll the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, place the frozen dough balls directly on the baking sheets and increase the baking time by a couple of minutes. This way, you can enjoy fresh, warm Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies anytime with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies

Perfect Butter Consistency: Ensure your butter is soft but still slightly firm. This helps avoid excessive spreading during baking, leading to beautifully shaped cookies.
Chill for Success: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This critical step helps maintain the shape of your Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies and adds to their soft texture.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies; you want them tender and delightful!
Oven Temperature Matters: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your baking temperature is accurate. This guarantees even baking and perfect cookies every time.
Chocolate Kiss Strategy: For less melting, consider freezing the chocolate kisses before pressing them into the cookies. This will help them maintain their shape while still creating a delicious center.

Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients like eggs and butter, make sure your butter is softened but still slightly firm to achieve the perfect cookie texture. For eggs, I recommend using fresh, farm-fresh eggs for the best flavor. Also, opting for high-quality cocoa powder can significantly enhance the final taste of your Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies.

How should I store my Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This will ensure they remain soft and delicious. If you’re looking to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 7 days, but be aware they may lose some of their original texture.

Can I freeze Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies? If so, how?
Yes, freezing is a fantastic option! To freeze your cookies, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or a Ziplock bag. You can enjoy them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their delightful texture.

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If you find your Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies are spreading too much, this could be due to butter that is too soft. Ensure your butter is slightly firm before mixing, and chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes is key to maintaining the cookie shape during baking. If this doesn’t help, consider adding a tablespoon of flour to the dough, which can help retain shape.

Are there dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Certainly! If you’re baking for others with dietary restrictions, keep in mind that you can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. For a dairy-free option, use margarine or coconut oil instead of butter, and swap regular milk with almond or any plant-based milk. Always label your cookies to avoid any surprises for those with allergies!