Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies You’ll Love!

Introduction to Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself craving the delightful flavors of Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies. These little gems are not just cookies; they’re a warm hug on a plate! Perfect for busy moms and professionals, this recipe is a quick solution for those hectic days when you want to impress loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a festive treat that’s sure to bring smiles. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a holiday staple in your home!

Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies You’ll Love!

Print Recipe

Delicious chocolate cookies with a peppermint twist, perfect for the holiday season.

• Author: Chef Samantha
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
6. Stir in the chocolate chips and peppermint extract.
7. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet.
8. Make an indentation in the center of each ball using your thumb.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, then remove from the oven.
10. Fill each indentation with crushed peppermint candies.
11. Allow to cool before serving.

Notes

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
• For a stronger peppermint flavor, increase the amount of peppermint extract.
• These cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies

These Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies are a dream come true for busy cooks like us! They’re incredibly easy to whip up, taking just over half an hour from start to finish. The rich chocolate flavor paired with a refreshing peppermint twist makes them irresistible. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings or cozy family nights. You’ll love how quickly they disappear from the cookie jar!

Ingredients for Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Unsalted butter: This adds richness and helps create a tender cookie. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and contributes to their lovely texture.
• Brown sugar: Packed brown sugar adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
• Large eggs: They bind the ingredients together and help the cookies rise.
• Vanilla extract: A must for enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• All-purpose flour: The base of the cookie, providing structure and stability.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: This gives the cookies their rich chocolate flavor.
• Baking powder: Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
• Chocolate chips: These melt into gooey pockets of chocolate goodness.
• Peppermint extract: Adds that refreshing holiday twist; adjust to your taste!
• Crushed peppermint candies: For a festive touch and a delightful crunch.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Feel free to get creative with substitutions, like using coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option or swapping in gluten-free flour if needed. The possibilities are endless!

How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) is crucial for baking these Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies. It ensures even cooking and helps the cookies rise perfectly. A hot oven means your cookies will bake quickly, locking in that delicious chocolate flavor while keeping them soft and chewy.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process is essential because it incorporates air into the dough, giving your cookies a tender texture. Take your time here; a good creaming can make all the difference in the final product!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the large eggs and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. The eggs act as a binding agent, helping to hold everything together, while the vanilla enhances the overall flavor. Mix until everything is well combined, and you’ll start to smell that delightful aroma!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed, which is vital for achieving that perfect rise in your cookies. It also helps prevent any clumps of cocoa powder!

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. You want to see a few flour streaks remaining; it’s okay! This will keep your Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies soft and tender.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips and Peppermint Extract

Now, fold in the chocolate chips and peppermint extract. These ingredients are the stars of the show, bringing rich chocolate flavor and a refreshing peppermint twist. Make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough for that perfect bite in every cookie!

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use your thumb to create an indentation in the center of each ball. This is where the crushed peppermint candies will go later, so make sure the indent is deep enough to hold them!

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when the edges look set but the centers are still soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Fill with Crushed Peppermint

Once the cookies have cooled, fill each indentation with crushed peppermint candies. This not only adds a festive touch but also a delightful crunch. The vibrant colors of the crushed candies make these Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies visually appealing and perfect for holiday gatherings!

Tips for Success

• Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
• Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes if it feels too soft to handle.
• Experiment with different types of chocolate chips for varied flavors.
• Don’t skip the cooling step; it helps the cookies set properly.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls: A large bowl for mixing and a smaller one for dry ingredients. You can use any bowls you have on hand.
• Electric mixer: A hand mixer works great, but a whisk and some elbow grease will do the trick!
• Baking sheet: A standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper ensures easy cleanup.
• Cookie scoop: This helps with uniform cookie sizes, but you can use your hands if needed.

Variations

• Mint Chocolate Chip: Swap out the peppermint extract for mint chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.
• Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and added flavor.
• Dark Chocolate Version: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer taste.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
• Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
• Present them on a festive platter, garnished with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
• Include them in a holiday cookie box for gifting to friends and family.

FAQs about Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies

Can I make these Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just roll and bake when you’re ready to enjoy these festive treats!

How should I store the cookies?

Store your Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully for up to 3 months!

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips. Each will give your cookies a unique flavor twist!

What if I don’t have peppermint extract?

No worries! You can substitute it with a few drops of mint extract or simply skip it altogether. The cookies will still be deliciously chocolatey!

Are these cookies suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes! Just swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and you’ll have a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy!

Final Thoughts

Making Chocolate Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories. The aroma of chocolate mingling with peppermint fills your home with warmth and joy, making it feel festive. These cookies are perfect for sharing with family and friends, bringing smiles to everyone’s faces. Plus, they’re a delightful way to unwind after a busy day. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to become a cherished tradition. So, roll up your sleeves, and let the holiday spirit inspire your baking adventure!