Jump to Recipe Print RecipeStepping into the kitchen during the holidays feels like unwrapping a cozy gift—warm, inviting, and full of joy. This season, I’m excited to share my Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies, a delightful treat that perfectly marries rich cocoa with refreshing peppermint. These cookies are not only a feast for the eyes with their festive chocolate kiss and crushed peppermint topping, but they also offer an easy way to impress guests or bring joy to your cookie exchanges. With their soft, chewy texture and the enticing aroma wafting through your home, you’ll find these festive cookies don’t just taste amazing—they make every gathering feel a little more special. Curious about how to whip up this holiday magic? Let’s dive in! Why are Peppermint Chocolate Cookies Special? Irresistible combination of flavors: The rich chocolate paired with refreshing peppermint creates a perfect harmony that will leave your taste buds singing. Effortless preparation: This recipe is designed for bakers of all levels, making it a breeze to whip up these festive delights. Customizable options are available: Want to switch it up? You can easily replace mini chocolate chips or experiment with different toppings for a personalized touch. Great for gatherings: Whether it’s a cookie swap or holiday party, these cookies are sure to become a favorite among friends and family, just like my Lemon Raspberry Cookies! Perfect for gifting: Package them up in a festive box, and you have a delightful homemade gift that shows you care. When you bake these Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies, you’re not just making cookies; you’re creating memories filled with warmth and joy! Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies Ingredients • Get ready to create a festive delight with these essential ingredients! For the Cookie Dough 1 cup all-purpose flour – Provides structure; feel free to use almond flour for a nutty twist! 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Delivers that rich chocolate flavor; opt for unsweetened to keep it balanced. 1 tsp baking soda – Helps the cookies rise perfectly into delightful pillows of goodness. 1/4 tsp salt – Enhances the flavor balance for a well-rounded taste. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – The key to tenderness; just make sure it’s not too soft to avoid spreading! 3/4 cup granulated sugar – Sweetness galore! This contributes to the cookie’s delightful texture. 1/4 cup packed brown sugar – Infuses moisture and depth; a little goes a long way! 1 large egg – Binds everything together for smooth consistency. 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds aromatic and comforting flavor depth. 2 tbsp milk – Hydrates the dough and keeps every bite soft. For the Festive Topping 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional) – For a luxurious chocolate richness; totally optional but highly recommended! 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes – Infuses a festive crunch and minty flavor throughout. 24 peppermint-striped chocolate kisses – The signature topping; press into the warm cookies for a charming finish! With these Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies ingredients, you’re one step closer to holiday magic in the kitchen! Step-by-Step Instructions for Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure even baking and prevent sticking. This preparation is essential for achieving perfectly baked Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies. Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 tsp baking soda, and 1/4 tsp salt. This mixture is the foundation of your cookie dough, providing both structure and essential flavor. Aim for a uniform blend before proceeding to the next step. Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/4 cup packed brown sugar. Beat these ingredients for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step will create a rich base for your Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies, adding a delightful texture. Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients Add 1 large egg, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 2 tbsp milk to the butter-sugar mix. Using a mixer, combine these wet ingredients until well incorporated and smooth. This mixture brings moisture and flavor to your dough, essential for the perfect cookie. Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. If desired, fold in 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips at this stage. Ensure the dough is smooth but avoid overmixing; you want to maintain a tender consistency for your Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies. Step 6: Shape Cookies Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Visualize a cozy arrangement, as these little shapes will spread slightly as they bake, creating the perfect cookies. Step 7: Bake & Top with Kisses Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when the edges are set, and the centers still look slightly soft. Remove from the oven, and immediately press a peppermint-striped chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. Step 8: Add Crushed Peppermint While the cookies are still warm and the chocolate kisses are slightly melted, sprinkle 1/2 cup of crushed peppermint candies over the tops. This adds not only a festive touch but also enhances the delightful peppermint flavor of your holiday cookies. Make Ahead Options These Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to streamline their holiday baking! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix the ingredients as directed and wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap. This keeps it fresh and prevents drying out. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop and shape the cookies before baking or refrigerate them for a few hours to firm up if it’s warm. Additionally, the crushed peppermint can be prepared ahead and stored in an airtight container for several days, maintaining its crunch and flavor. By prepping the dough and toppings in advance, you’ll save time and still enjoy those delicious, festive Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies! How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to keep them soft and fresh. Fridge: If you prefer, these cookies can be kept in the fridge for 1-2 weeks in an airtight container, but they may lose some of their original texture. Freezer: Freeze the cookies individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy. Reheating: To bring them back to life, pop frozen cookies in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy those delicious Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies any time! Expert Tips for Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies • Chill the Dough: Chilling your cookie dough for 20-30 minutes helps prevent spreading, especially in warm kitchens. • Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your baking temperature is accurate; this is key for cookie success. • Butter Consistency Matters: Avoid overly soft butter to maintain cookie shape. Too soft can lead to excess spreading in the oven. • Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to switch out toppings or adjust the amount of crushed peppermint to cater to your taste! • Proper Storage: Store Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to keep them fresh. • Pre-Freeze Chocolate Kisses: Freezing the chocolate kisses prior to baking helps them retain their shape when pressed into warm cookies. What to Serve with Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies Cozy up your holiday gatherings with delightful pairings that celebrate the festive spirit and enhance your cookie experience. Hot Cocoa: A classic drink that perfectly complements the chocolatey goodness of your cookies, adding a warm, comforting touch. Peppermint Tea: The refreshing mint flavor of this tea brings a lovely harmony, making it an ideal companion to balance out sweetness. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, smooth texture of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully against the chewy cookies for a decadent dessert. Gingerbread Cookies: Embrace the holiday vibes by serving these spiced cookies alongside, creating a delightful medley of festive flavors. Cheesecake Bites: Add a rich and creamy contrast, balancing the peppermint cookie crunch with their velvety texture that melts in your mouth. Fruit Platter: Fresh fruit, such as strawberries or oranges, can offer a refreshing bite, brightening your dessert table with vibrant colors and flavors. Sparkling Lemonade: Serve this bubbly drink to add a zesty twist. Its brightness will cleanse the palate between sweet bites and enhance the celebratory atmosphere. Eggnog: For a traditional holiday drink, eggnog’s soothing spices pair just right with the festive flavors in your cookies. Pecan Pie Bars: Add a nutty crunch with a rich caramel taste to contrast the peppermint bliss, making for an unforgettable combo. Chocolate Milk: Perfect for kids and adults alike, this sweet beverage doubles the chocolate joy while making each bite of cookie even more delightful! Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine and make these cookies truly your own! Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a similar texture. Nutty Flavor: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a delightful nutty twist. Less Sugar: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol to reduce the sweetness while keeping the joy. Extra Chocolate: Fold in dark chocolate chunks or double the mini chocolate chips for a chocolate lover’s dream. Peppermint Extract: Swap crushed peppermint with peppermint extract for a more intense minty flavor—just a drop will do! For those who enjoy a unique experience, don’t forget about experimenting with toppings. You could try different flavored chocolate kisses or even a sprinkle of sea salt for contrast. If you love the combination of citrus and chocolate, consider pairing these cookies with some Lemon Raspberry Cookies for a vibrant dessert platter! Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies Recipe FAQs What is the best way to select peppermint for the recipe? To achieve the freshest flavor, use whole peppermint candy canes and crush them just before adding to your cookies. Look for candy canes that are vibrant in color and free from dark spots or signs of moisture, as these indicate freshness. How should I store Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies? Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the fridge for 1-2 weeks. Just remember, refrigerating may alter their softness! Can I freeze Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies? Absolutely! Freeze the cookies individually on a baking sheet for about 2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 3 months. To enjoy them later, simply thaw at room temperature. What should I do if my cookies spread too much during baking? Don’t worry; it happens to the best of us! If your cookies spread too much, try chilling your dough for 20-30 minutes before baking. Also, ensure that you’re using the right butter consistency—avoid it being overly soft and consider using a cookie scoop to get even-sized balls. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Make sure to check for allergens if you’re sharing these cookies! The recipe contains gluten from all-purpose flour and dairy from butter and chocolate. For gluten-free options, substitute with almond flour or a gluten-free blend. For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate kisses. Always inform guests about potential allergens. Can I customize the toppings for these cookies? Very much so! Feel free to experiment with different toppings, like crushed nuts instead of peppermint, or even swap out the chocolate kisses for caramel or white chocolate varieties. The more, the merrier when it comes to creativity in the kitchen! Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies for a Sweet Holiday Treat Enjoy the delightful Peppermint Chocolate Blossom Cookies, a festive treat marrying rich cocoa with refreshing peppermint. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsChill Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Dough1 cup all-purpose flour Feel free to use almond flour for a nutty twist!1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Opt for unsweetened to keep it balanced.1 tsp baking soda Helps the cookies rise perfectly.1/4 tsp salt Enhances the flavor balance.1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Ensure it's not too soft to avoid spreading!3/4 cup granulated sugar Contributes to the delightful texture.1/4 cup packed brown sugar Infuses moisture and depth.1 large egg Binds everything together.1 tsp vanilla extract Adds aromatic flavor depth.2 tbsp milk Keeps every bite soft.For the Festive Topping1/2 cup mini chocolate chips Optional but highly recommended!1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes Infuses a festive crunch.24 pieces peppermint-striped chocolate kisses Press into the warm cookies. Equipment OvenMixing bowlsBaking sheetsParchment PaperCookie scoopMixer Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.Add egg, vanilla extract, and milk to the butter-sugar mix, mixing until incorporated and smooth.Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until combined. Fold in mini chocolate chips if desired.Form the dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are set and centers look slightly soft. Press a chocolate kiss into each cookie.Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the tops while cookies are warm. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 50mgPotassium: 60mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg NotesChilling the dough helps prevent spreading. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
