Peppermint Frosted Chocolate Cookies Recipe You’ll Love

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Peppermint Frosted Chocolate Cookies are like a cozy hug on a plate. With their rich chocolate flavor and refreshing peppermint frosting, they make the perfect treat for the holidays or any special moment. What’s great about this recipe is that it’s easy to follow, even for beginners. You can whip up a delicious batch of cookies with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it a fantastic way to impress your friends and family!

Why Beginners Will Love This Recipe

These peppermint frosted chocolate cookies are perfect for beginners because they offer a worry-free baking experience. The steps are clear and easy to follow, and you get a delicious outcome every time. Plus, the combination of chocolate and peppermint feels festive and special, making your baking session feel like more than just everyday cooking. You’ll feel a sense of accomplishment when you see how simple and rewarding this delicious dessert can be!

How to Make Peppermint Frosted Chocolate Cookies

Making these cookies involves just a few steps. First, you’ll prepare the cookie dough by mixing together your wet and dry ingredients. Then, scoop the dough onto baking sheets and bake it in the oven. While the cookies cool, you can make the creamy peppermint frosting and spread it on top. Finally, garnish with crushed candy canes for that extra festive touch!

Ingredients

1 cup Butter (softened)
1 cup Granulated Sugar
3/4 cup Brown Sugar
2 large Eggs
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
1/2 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
2 1/3 cups Flour
1 teaspoon Baking Soda
1/2 teaspoon Salt
1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
1/2 cup Butter (softened)
8-ounce pkg. Cream Cheese (softened)
3 cups Powdered Sugar
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon Peppermint Extract
Crushed Candy Canes (for garnish)
Candy Cane Peppermint Butter Mints (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 3/4 cup of brown sugar. Mix for about 4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Remember to scrape the sides of the bowl to get everything mixed in!
Next, add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix for 1 more minute until everything is well combined.
Now, add in 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 1/3 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix until just combined; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
Gently fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips until they are evenly distributed.
Scoop the dough onto light-colored baking sheets lined with parchment paper, leaving at least 2 inches of space between cookies. If you prefer flatter cookies, lightly press down on the dough.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. Be careful not to overbake! The cookies will continue to cook a little once they come out of the oven. Remove them from the oven and let them cool completely.
For the frosting, cream together 1/2 cup of softened butter and 8 ounces of softened cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Mix for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Gradually add in 3 cups of powdered sugar and 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Start with the smaller amount, then adjust to taste. Mix for about 1 minute until smooth.
Once the cookies are completely cool, spread the frosting generously on top of each cookie. Finally, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for a festive touch. If you want, you can also add candy cane peppermint butter mints.
Cover the frosted cookies and refrigerate them until you are ready to serve.

How to Make Peppermint Frosted Chocolate Cookies

Enjoying Your Delicious Cookies

These Peppermint Frosted Chocolate Cookies are delightful served at room temperature or slightly chilled from the refrigerator. They make a fantastic dessert for holiday gatherings, a sweet treat for after-school snacks, or a cozy addition to your weekend baking session. Consider serving them alongside a warm cup of cocoa or coffee for added enjoyment!

Storing Your Cookies for Freshness

To keep your Peppermint Frosted Chocolate Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for about 3-5 days. If you have leftover cookies or need to make them ahead, you can also store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Freezing is not recommended since the frosting may not hold up well.

Tips for Perfect Cookies Every Time

Make sure your butter is softened for easy mixing. It should feel like room temperature, but not melting.
Avoid overbaking; cookies should look slightly soft in the center when you take them out. They’ll firm up as they cool.
For the best texture, measure your flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife, rather than scooping directly from the bag.
If you want a stronger peppermint flavor, taste the frosting and adjust the peppermint extract to your liking, but start with a little and add more if necessary.

Variations

Mint Chocolate Chip: Try adding mint chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a double-mint flavor.
Holiday Spice: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cookie dough for a warm, spiced kick.
Gluten-Free Substitute: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour to make this recipe gluten-free.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the cookies a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Just frost them the day you’re ready to serve for the best texture.

What if I don’t have cream cheese for the frosting?

You can substitute the cream cheese with 1/2 cup of softened butter for a simple buttercream. Just mix it with the powdered sugar and peppermint extract until smooth and creamy.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Freezing the frosted cookies is not recommended because the frosting may not thaw well. However, you can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a bag and store for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Peppermint Frosted Chocolate Cookies are a delightful treat that feels special every time you bake them. This easy recipe combines the rich chocolatey flavor with a sweet, cool peppermint twist, making it an enjoyable dessert for anyone. You can be proud of your baking skills as you create these beautiful cookies that taste incredible!

Baking these Peppermint Frosted Chocolate Cookies lets you enjoy a cozy, simple, and delicious treat. Whether for a holiday celebration or just a fun weekend project, you’ll love how easy and rewarding this recipe is!

As you try out this delightful recipe for Peppermint Frosted Chocolate Cookies, take a moment to reflect on your culinary adventure. Feel proud of your creation and consider exploring more beginner-friendly dessert recipes in the future!

Peppermint Frosted Chocolate Cookies Recipe