Name: Fudgy Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms for Festive Cheer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 33 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Ensure accurate measuring to avoid dense cookies.); 1/2 cup Cocoa Powder (Dutch Process) (Regular cocoa cannot be substituted due to acidity differences.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/4 teaspoon Salt (Enhances sweetness and balances the overall flavors.); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Should be softened for easy creaming.); 1 cup Light Brown Sugar (Contributes moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Adds sweetness and promotes a crisp exterior.); 2 large Egg Yolks (Should be at room temperature for optimal mixing.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances overall flavor.); 24 pieces Candy Cane Hershey Kisses (Frozen) (Freeze for best shape retention.); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (for rolling) (Coats the dough balls for added sweetness.)

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Amid the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, these fudgy Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms remind me that joy often lies in simple pleasures. With their rich dark chocolate base and a delightful peppermint kiss at the center, each bite is like a cozy embrace on a chilly winter day. What makes these cookies truly special is how quick and easy they are to whip up, making them the perfect addition to your Christmas cookie platter. They’re sure to be a hit among friends and family, whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just looking to treat yourself. Ready to spread some holiday cheer with an irresistible twist? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and create some magic in the kitchen!

Why Are These Cookies a Festive Favorite?

Deliciously Easy: You’ll adore how simple these cookies are to make, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.

Festive Flavor: With rich dark chocolate mingling with refreshing peppermint, every bite brings a burst of holiday cheer.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: These Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms are bound to impress at any gathering, making them a beloved choice for cookie exchanges.

Chewy Perfection: Their fudgy texture combined with the gooey peppermint center creates an irresistible contrast.

Make Ahead: Prep the dough ahead of time for a hassle-free holiday baking experience, just like our tasty Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe offers.

Customizable Delight: Swap in different Hershey Kisses for unique flavors and keep the festive spirit alive!

Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Ingredients

For the Cookie Base
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; ensure accurate measuring to avoid dense cookies.
• Cocoa Powder (Dutch Process) – Adds deep chocolate flavor; regular cocoa cannot be substituted due to acidity differences.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Leavening agents that create a light and fluffy texture.
• Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances the overall flavors.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and rich flavor; should be softened for easy creaming.
• Light Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and a hint of caramel flavor thanks to its molasses content.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and promotes a crisp exterior when rolling the dough.
• Egg Yolks – Provide richness and binding; should be at room temperature for optimal mixing.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor and aroma, tying the ingredients together beautifully.

For the Peppermint Center
• Candy Cane Hershey Kisses (Frozen) – The signature topping that brings a sweet minty burst to each cookie; freeze for best shape retention.

For Rolling
• Granulated Sugar (for rolling) – Coats the dough balls for a delightful sweet exterior, elevating the cookie experience.

These delectable Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms will surely add festivity to your holiday treats!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fudgy Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking. This step sets the stage for baking your delicious Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms, ensuring they come out perfectly each time.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This mixture creates the foundation for your cookies, providing the right texture and balance of flavors. Set the bowl aside once combined, allowing the ingredients to mingle and aerate as you continue.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter with both brown and granulated sugars. Beat them together until the mixture appears light and fluffy, about 1-2 minutes. This step is crucial, as it incorporates air into the dough, resulting in soft and fudgy Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms.

Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until everything is fully combined and creamy, about another minute. The richness of the egg yolks will help bind the ingredients, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of your cookies.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually incorporate the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Use a spatula or spoon to mix gently until just combined, being careful not to over-mix. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky. This union creates the base of your Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms, ready for shaping.

Step 6: Form Cookie Dough
Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls. Once shaped, roll each ball in the granulated sugar for a sweet exterior. This step not only adds sweetness but also creates a delightful texture as the cookies bake, enhancing the overall experience of your Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms.

Step 7: Bake
Place the sugared dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each one. Bake in your preheated oven for 7-8 minutes. For a chewier texture, aim for the shorter baking time. The cookies should look slightly set but still soft; they will firm up as they cool.

Step 8: Add Topping
Immediately upon removing the baking sheets from the oven, gently press a frozen Candy Cane Hershey Kiss into the center of each cookie. This step adds that magical peppermint surprise and melts just a bit to create a gooey center. Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet until they are set, ensuring the kisses hold their shape.

Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic recipe, bringing unique flavors and textures to your festive baking!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free spread for a luscious, dairy-free cookie.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to maintain the cookie’s texture without the gluten!
Minty Upgrade: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the dough for an extra burst of minty flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the dough for a delightful crunch that adds warmth and heartiness to the cookie.
Chewy Chocolate Delight: Replace half the all-purpose flour with oat flour for pleasantly chewy cookies that pack even more flavor.
Hot & Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dough for a surprising kick that complements the chocolate and peppermint beautifully.
Flavor Exploration: Use flavored Hershey Kisses like Sugar Cookie Kisses or Cookies ‘n’ Cream Kisses instead of Candy Cane Kisses for a fun twist.
Unexpected Cookie: Try rolling the cookie dough balls in crushed peppermint candies instead of granulated sugar for a sweet and festive crunch, reminiscent of our delightful Pink Hot Chocolate.

Helpful Tricks for Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms

Proper Measuring: Ensure accurate measuring of flour by using the spoon and level method or weighing it to avoid dense cookies.
Chill Your Kisses: Freeze the Candy Cane Hershey Kisses before adding them to cookies to maintain their shape and ensure a gooey center.
Mind the Bake Time: For chewier cookies, keep an eye on the timer and pull them out closer to 7 minutes. They will continue to set as they cool.
Don’t Skip Cooling: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets before transferring to a wire rack to prevent the Kisses from melting too much.
Customize Flavors: Feel free to swap the Hershey Kisses with other varieties to create unique Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms that suit your taste!

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and chewy texture.

Fridge: If you want them to last a little longer, place the cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure they are sealed well to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms without the Hershey Kisses in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.

What to Serve with Fudgy Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms?

Treat yourself to a festive feast that perfectly complements the rich flavors of these delightful cookies, creating a warm holiday experience.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: This luscious drink pairs perfectly with the cookies, enhancing the chocolate experience while providing a comforting warmth on chilly days. A sprinkle of peppermint on top ties it all together beautifully.
Fresh Minted Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits like strawberries or oranges refresh the palate and contrast with the fudgy richness, making each bite of cookie even more delightful.
Classic Gingerbread Cookies: Add a nostalgic twist to your dessert table with spicy gingerbread. The bold flavors will harmonize wonderfully with the peppermint and chocolate notes.
Spiced Apple Cider: Serve a steaming cup of this seasonal favorite alongside your cookies. The warm spices elevate the festive mood, making your holiday gathering even cozier.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety ice cream adds a creamy, cool texture that beautifully balances the rich chocolate of the cookies. Drizzle with some chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent touch.
Peppermint Bark: Enhance the peppermint experience by serving these alongside the cookies. The crunchy, chocolatey treat echoes the cookies’ flavors while providing a delightful texture contrast.
Holiday Spritzer: For an effervescent drink option, consider a sparkling water mixed with cranberry juice and a splash of lime. It provides a refreshing zing, counterbalancing the sweetness of the cookies.
Cheeseboard with Nuts and Dried Fruits: Create a savory balance with earthy nuts, creamy cheeses, and sweet dried fruits. This contrast makes every cookie bite more special and adds variety to your spread.
Sugar Cookies: Round out your cookie platter with classic sugar cookies decorated with festive icing. Their light sweetness will delight guests as they take a bite of your fudgy delights.

Embrace the festive spirit this holiday season and pair these Fudgy Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms with these delightful treats, ensuring joy at every gathering.

Make Ahead Options

These fudgy Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough in advance by rolling it into balls and rolling them in granulated sugar, then freeze them for up to 3 months. This not only saves you time during the busy holiday season but also ensures that you can whip up a batch of cookies quickly whenever the craving strikes. To maintain the delicious quality, store the rolled dough in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. When ready to bake, simply take them straight from the freezer, place them on a baking sheet, and bake at 350°F (175°C) without thawing, adding a minute or two to the baking time. Now you can enjoy fresh, festive cookies with minimal fuss!

Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best cocoa powder for my Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms?
Absolutely! For the richest flavor, opt for Dutch process cocoa powder. It has a deeper, more mellow chocolate taste compared to regular cocoa. The key difference is the acidity; Dutch process cocoa has been treated to neutralize its acidity, which makes it vital for recipes like this. Regular cocoa cannot be substituted as it may alter the cookies’ texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to store my Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to extend their shelf life, you can also refrigerate them for up to one week, just ensure they’re well-sealed to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms? If so, how?
Absolutely! For optimal freezing, first remove the Hershey Kisses from the cookies. Place the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 2 weeks. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature. Once thawed, you can add fresh Hershey Kisses and gently warm them in the microwave for a delightful treat!

What common issues might I encounter when baking these cookies?
Very! If your cookies turn out too dry, it may be due to over-measuring the flour. Use the spoon and level method when measuring, or even consider weighing your flour (1 cup = 125 grams) for accuracy. If they’re too flat after baking, ensure your baking soda and baking powder are fresh. Also, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help improve the texture.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of when making these cookies?
Yes! If you’re baking for pets, please note that chocolate is toxic to dogs. As for allergies, these cookies contain gluten (from flour) and dairy (from butter). You might consider using gluten-free all-purpose flour and a dairy substitute if necessary. Always communicate with guests about ingredient changes to ensure everyone can safely enjoy the deliciousness!