Indulging in the flavors of the holiday season can be as simple as whipping up a batch of peppermint pattie cookies. With their rich chocolate exterior and a refreshing minty center, these cookies bring a delightful twist to your dessert table. They are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or just a cozy night in with a cup of hot cocoa. If you love the classic peppermint pattie candy, wait until you try them in cookie form.
Why It Deserves a Spot
Peppermint pattie cookies deserve a spot in your recipe collection for several reasons. First, they combine two beloved treats: chocolate and mint, creating a flavor that is both refreshing and indulgent. The crispy outer layer contrasts beautifully with the creamy, minty filling, making each bite an exciting experience. Moreover, these cookies are relatively easy to make, allowing you to impress friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen. The festive colors and flavors also make them an ideal choice for holiday celebrations.
Your Shopping Guide
To make these delectable peppermint pattie cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 sticks (12 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 cup loosely packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg + 1 egg yolk, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons evaporated milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Ganache: 3.5 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 2.5 tablespoons heavy cream
Prep & Cook Tools
Before you start baking, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process:
- Mixing bowls – for blending your ingredients seamlessly.
- Whisk – to incorporate air and mix your dry ingredients effectively.
- Baking sheet – to hold your cookies as they bake to perfection.
- Parchment paper – for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate ingredient proportions.
- Spatula – for folding in ingredients and transferring cookies.
Peppermint Pattie Cookies., Made Easy
Making peppermint pattie cookies is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these steps for delicious results:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted and cooled butter with both sugars. Mix until well combined, creating a creamy texture.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
Step 7: Shape and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set.
Step 8: Prepare the Mint Filling
While the cookies are baking, prepare the mint filling. In a medium bowl, beat together the powdered sugar, softened butter, evaporated milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until smooth and creamy.
Step 9: Assemble the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a spoonful of the mint filling on the bottom of half the cookies and sandwich them with the remaining cookies.
Step 10: Make the Ganache
For the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat until just simmering. Pour it over the chopped dark chocolate in a bowl and let it sit for a few minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy.
Step 11: Dip the Cookies
Dip the filled cookies into the ganache, allowing any excess to drip off. Place them back on the parchment-lined baking sheet and let the ganache set before serving.
Make It Your Way
These peppermint pattie cookies are highly versatile. Here are a few ideas to customize your baking experience:
- Add crushed candy canes to the mint filling for an extra festive crunch.
- Use milk chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter version.
- Incorporate different flavor extracts like almond or orange for a unique twist.
- Drizzle white chocolate on top for a beautiful presentation.
What Could Go Wrong
Even the best bakers can encounter a few hiccups. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls:
- Overmixing the Dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined.
- Cookies Spreading Too Much: Ensure your butter is cooled before mixing and chill the dough if necessary.
- Uneven Ganache: Make sure to stir the ganache thoroughly for a smooth texture.
- Mint Filling Too Runny: Adjust the powdered sugar and evaporated milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
If you find yourself with leftover peppermint pattie cookies, here’s how to store them:
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, place them in the freezer, separated by layers of parchment paper, for up to three months. To enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the microwave.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I use different types of chocolate for these cookies?
Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate or even white chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter flavor profile. Just be mindful that it may alter the overall taste of the cookies.
How can I make the cookies more minty?
To enhance the mint flavor, you can increase the amount of peppermint extract in the filling. Just be cautious not to add too much, as it can become overpowering.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures 1:1. Make sure the other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What can I do with leftover ganache?
Leftover ganache can be refrigerated and used as a topping for ice cream, drizzled over cakes, or even enjoyed straight from the bowl!
If you’re looking for more delicious baking projects to tackle this weekend, consider these delightful recipes:
Time to Try It
Now that you have all the tools, tips, and tricks at your disposal, it’s time to dive into the delightful world of peppermint pattie cookies. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the process of creating these festive treats. Whether you share them with loved ones or keep them all to yourself, each bite will be a little taste of holiday magic. Happy baking!
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Peppermint Pattie Cookies.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat Your Oven. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
- Step 3: Prepare the Butter and Sugars. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted and cooled butter with both sugars. Mix until well combined, creating a creamy texture.
- Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla. Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips. Gently fold in the dark chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.
- Step 7: Shape and Bake. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set.
- Step 8: Prepare the Mint Filling. While the cookies are baking, prepare the mint filling. In a medium bowl, beat together the powdered sugar, softened butter, evaporated milk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until smooth and creamy.
- Step 9: Assemble the Cookies. Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a spoonful of the mint filling on the bottom of half the cookies and sandwich them with the remaining cookies.
- Step 10: Make the Ganache. For the ganache, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat until just simmering. Pour it over the chopped dark chocolate in a bowl and let it sit for a few minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy.
- Step 11: Dip the Cookies. Dip the filled cookies into the ganache, allowing any excess to drip off. Place them back on the parchment-lined baking sheet and let the ganache set before serving.
Notes
- For a festive twist, add crushed candy canes to the mint filling.
- Replace dark chocolate chips with milk chocolate for a sweeter cookie.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
