Chocolate Peppermint Brownie Cookies: A Festive Treat for Every Occasion
Introduction
Have you ever wondered how to combine the rich, fudgy texture of brownies with the delightful crunch of cookies? If so, you’re in for a treat! Chocolate peppermint brownie cookies are not only a delicious holiday dessert but also a unique twist on two classic favorites. These cookies strike the perfect balance between chewy and crispy, with a refreshing hint of peppermint that elevates the chocolate flavor to new heights.
In this post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about creating these scrumptious cookies, from the ingredients to serving suggestions. Let’s dive into the world of chocolate peppermint brownie cookies and discover why they should be your next baking adventure!
Ingredients List
To make the ultimate chocolate peppermint brownie cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Essential Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Crushed peppermint candies (for topping)
Suggested Substitutions:
- Butter: Can be replaced with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Granulated Sugar: Try using coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
- Eggs: Substitute with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan version.
- Flour: Use almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option.
These ingredients come together to create a cookie that is as visually appealing as it is delicious. The crushed peppermint candies on top add a festive touch and a satisfying crunch!
Timing
Preparing and baking these chocolate peppermint brownie cookies is a breeze. Here’s a breakdown of the timing:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
This total time is about 20% less than the average cookie recipe, making it a quick and delightful treat for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect chewy texture.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla and peppermint extracts.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 4: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. This step is crucial for ensuring every bite is packed with chocolatey goodness.
Step 5: Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
Step 6: Cool and Decorate
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. While they’re still warm, sprinkle the tops with crushed peppermint candies for that festive touch!
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional content of your cookies can help you enjoy them guilt-free. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values per cookie (based on a recipe yielding 24 cookies):
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g
These cookies are a delightful indulgence, perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat any day of the week!
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you’re looking to make your chocolate peppermint brownie cookies a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor, consider these alternatives:
- Reduce Sugar: Cut the granulated sugar by 25% and replace it with unsweetened applesauce for added moisture.
- Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase fiber content.
- Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips (70% cocoa or higher) for a richer flavor and additional antioxidants.
- Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or almonds for healthy fats and added texture.
These modifications can help cater to various dietary preferences while keeping the deliciousness intact!
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate peppermint brownie cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions:
- With Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Hot Chocolate Pairing: Enjoy these cookies alongside a steaming mug of hot chocolate for a cozy winter treat.
- Gift Packaging: Package them in a festive tin or box as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family during the holidays.
- Cookie Sundae: Create a cookie sundae by layering crumbled cookies, ice cream, and hot fudge sauce for a decadent dessert.
The possibilities are endless, making these cookies a delightful addition to any gathering!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can sometimes be tricky, but avoiding these common pitfalls can lead to perfect chocolate peppermint brownie cookies:
- Overmixing the Dough: This can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing cookies to cool on the baking sheet helps them set properly.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll enhance your baking success!
Storing Tips for the Recipe
To maintain the freshness and flavor of your chocolate peppermint brownie cookies, follow these storage tips:
- Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
- Prepping Ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.
These storage methods will keep your cookies delicious and ready to enjoy whenever the craving strikes!
Conclusion
In summary, chocolate peppermint brownie cookies are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a festive treat that will impress friends and family alike. We invite you to try this recipe and share your feedback in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious updates!
FAQs
Q1: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Q2: How can I make these cookies vegan?
A: Replace the butter with coconut oil, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs, and ensure the chocolate chips are dairy-free.
Q3: Can I use mint chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
A: Absolutely! Mint chocolate chips will enhance the peppermint flavor and add a fun twist.
Q4: What’s the best way to crush peppermint candies?
A: Place the candies in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into small pieces.
Q5: How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
A: The edges should be set, and the centers may look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.
Chocolate Peppermint Brownie Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Crushed peppermint candies (for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect chewy texture.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla and peppermint extracts.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 4: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. This step is crucial for ensuring every bite is packed with chocolatey goodness.
Step 5: Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
Step 6: Cool and Decorate
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. While they’re still warm, sprinkle the tops with crushed peppermint candies for that festive touch!