As I sifted flour and cocoa in my kitchen, the rich aroma reminded me of winter evenings filled with cozy gatherings. Today, I'm thrilled to share my recipe for Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies, a delightful twist on a holiday classic that would fit perfectly on any festive dessert table. Not only are these cookies a fun homemade alternative to store-bought treats like Oreos, but they also offer a quick prep time that allows you to whip up a festive batch in no time. With a firm yet crumbly texture and a refreshing minty filling, these cookies are sure to become a holiday favorite for family and friends alike. Are you ready to bring some festive cheer into your kitchen?
Why are Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies irresistible?
Festive Delight: These cookies combine the nostalgia of classic Oreos with a merry twist, perfect for those holiday gatherings.
Decadent Flavor: The bittersweet chocolate and refreshing peppermint filling create a delectable taste sensation that will have your guests coming back for more!
Quick and Easy: With a simple recipe and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch in no time, making it easy to spread holiday cheer.
Perfect Texture: A firm yet crumbly cookie gives way to a smooth, minty filling – a delightful contrast that keeps your taste buds dancing.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it, making holiday baking more convenient. Don’t forget to check out these lavender lemon sandwich cookies for a delightful alternative treat!
Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; this is a key component for stability.
- Dark Cocoa Powder – Adds deep chocolate flavor; opt for high-quality brands for richness.
- Baking Soda – Enhances browning and texture; can be substituted with freshly heated baking soda.
- Baking Powder – Helps the cookies rise; ensure freshness for best results.
- Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness; regular table salt can work as a substitute.
- Unsalted Butter – Infuses richness and flavor into the cookies; can be replaced with non-dairy butter for a dairy-free version.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and contributes to a crisp texture; brown sugar makes for a softer cookie instead.
- Large Eggs – Binds everything together and adds moisture; for vegan options, use flax or chia eggs.
- Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor profile; best not to substitute for optimal taste.
- Bittersweet or Semisweet Chocolate – Delivers rich flavor; choose dairy-free options for vegan needs.
For the Minty Filling
- Confectioner’s Sugar – Sweetens and adds structure; icing sugar can be a suitable alternative.
- Light Corn Syrup – Keeps the filling pliable and moist; maple syrup or agave can replace it if necessary.
- Milk – Adds moisture to the filling; feel free to use any milk type, including non-dairy.
- Peppermint Extract – Infuses the filling with minty goodness; use peppermint oil sparingly, as it is more concentrated.
- Crushed Peppermints or Candy Canes – Adds a festive texture; any hard peppermint candies work beautifully.
- Red Gel Food Coloring (optional) – For a pop of color in your filling; you can skip this if preferred.
These delightful Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies are not just a seasonal treat, but a heartfelt way to create cherished memories with loved ones. Dive in and let the holiday spirit fill your kitchen!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies
Step 1: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup of dark cocoa powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt until well combined. This creates the foundation for your Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies. Set this mixture aside as you move on to the next step.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together ½ cup of unsalted butter, ½ cup of vegetable shortening, and 1 cup of granulated sugar on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should become light and fluffy, which is essential for achieving the right texture in your cookies.
Step 3: Melt and Add Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 4 ounces of bittersweet or semisweet chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Allow the chocolate to cool slightly before adding it to the butter mixture. This ensures the butter won't melt. Incorporate the chocolate and mix thoroughly until combined, enhancing the rich flavor of the cookies.
Step 4: Mix in Eggs
Add 2 large eggs to the stand mixer one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated. This will help bind your dough together and provide moisture to your Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies. Once combined, add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix again until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. Mix just until combined; be careful not to overmix, which can lead to tough cookies. The dough should come together while maintaining a slightly soft consistency, ready for chilling.
Step 6: Chill the Dough
Wrap the cookie dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling the dough not only makes it easier to handle but helps the flavors meld together, ensuring your Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies turn out perfectly.
Step 7: Preheat the Oven
After chilling, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line several baking sheets with parchment paper. Preparing your workspace upfront allows for a smoother baking process, ensuring that the cookies bake evenly and don't stick.
Step 8: Roll and Cut Dough
Take the dough out of the refrigerator and roll it onto a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter or round biscuit cutter to cut out circles, placing them carefully on the prepared baking sheets. Aim for uniform shapes to ensure even baking of your Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies.
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookie rounds in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. They should be firm around the edges but soft in the center. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking; cookies will have a matte finish when done. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 10: Prepare the Minty Filling
In the stand mixer, combine 2 cups of confectioner’s sugar, 2 tablespoons of light corn syrup, ½ cup of vegetable shortening, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Mix on medium speed until the filling is smooth, creamy, and well-blended, creating that delicious minty center for your cookies.
Step 11: Add Crushed Peppermints
If desired, fold in ½ cup of crushed peppermint candies or candy canes into the filling mixture. This adds delightful texture and enhances the festive spirit of your Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies. Optionally, you can add a few drops of red gel food coloring to create a cheerful hue.
Step 12: Assemble the Cookies
Once the cookies have cooled completely, spread a tablespoon of the mint filling on the bottom of one cookie and gently press another cookie on top to create a sandwich. Repeat this process until all cookies are filled. Your delightful Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies are now ready to share and enjoy!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate the cookies, which will keep them fresh for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer: Freeze unfilled cookies for up to 3 months. Just place them in a freezer bag, ensuring they are well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, let the cookies thaw at room temperature. For filled cookies, heat them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back their softness. Enjoy your delightful Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies!
What to Serve with Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies
These delightful cookies deserve a festive spread to complement their rich chocolate and minty filling.
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Hot Cocoa: A cozy cup of hot cocoa with whipped cream enhances the chocolate flavor while providing a warm, comforting experience.
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Peppermint Bark: Layered chocolate and peppermint treat creates a thematic pairing, adding crunch and an extra minty touch to the dessert table.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the rich cookies, melting ever so slightly when sandwiched together for a delightful treat.
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Holiday Fruit Salad: A mix of vibrant fruits like berries and citrus creates a refreshing balance to the cookies' sweetness, adding a burst of freshness.
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Spiced Tea: A warming cup of chai or spiced tea offers comforting spices that resonate beautifully with the holiday vibes, perfect for winter gatherings.
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Chewy Ginger Cookies: With their warm, spicy profile, ginger cookies create an inviting contrast of flavors alongside your minty treats. Perfect for holiday cookies exchanges!
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Festive Spritzer: A refreshing cranberry or pomegranate spritzer provides a fizzy, tart companion to your cookies, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Craft your serving ideas around these suggestions to elevate your dessert experience and make your Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies truly unforgettable!
Expert Tips for Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Ensure you chill the dough for at least an hour to make rolling and cutting much easier, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to prevent tough cookies. Gentle handling is key for a tender texture.
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Cool Chocolate: Allow melted chocolate to cool slightly before adding it to the butter mixture. This step prevents the butter from melting into a greasy mess.
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Uniform Thickness: Use a ruler or rolling guide to keep your cookie rounds at a consistent ¼-inch thickness for even baking of your Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies.
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Watch the Bake Time: Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake. They should have a matte finish when done; slightly underbaking them ensures a soft center.
Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and explore these delightful twists that will make your Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies uniquely yours!
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Nutty Addition: Incorporate ½ cup of finely chopped nuts into the dough for added texture and flavor. Walnuts or pecans offer a delightful crunch to contrast with the soft filling.
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Mintless Version: Swap out the peppermint extract for vanilla or almond extract to give the filling a different flavor profile. It's a delicious alternative if you prefer milder tastes.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground cinnamon into the cookie dough for a warming spiciness that perfectly complements the chocolate. It’s unexpected and oh-so-wonderful!
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Creamy Center: Substitute half of the peppermint filling with a flavored cream cheese for a rich and creamy bite. It adds a luscious texture that balances beautifully with the crunchy cookie.
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Flavored Cocoa: Use flavored or specialty cocoa powders, such as mint or white chocolate cocoa, to enhance the flavor depth of your cookies. Each bite can offer new exciting notes!
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Fun Color: For a festive touch, divide the filling and tint one half with green food coloring. Alternate between the green and red fillings when assembling, creating a visually stunning treat!
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Chewy Texture: Replace some of the all-purpose flour with oatmeal for a chewier cookie. This twist adds a hearty element while balancing the sweetness.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Swap in coconut or almond milk for regular milk and use a vegan butter substitute for a completely dairy-free version that still tastes divine!
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it. This chilling process allows the flavors to deepen and makes the dough easier to handle. Additionally, you can make the mint filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to bring the filling back to room temperature and give it a quick mix before spreading it between the cookie halves. When you're ready to bake, simply roll out and cut the chilled dough, then proceed with baking and assembling for delightful cookies that taste freshly made with minimal effort!
Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best cocoa powder for these cookies?
Absolutely! Choosing a high-quality cocoa powder can truly elevate your Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies. I recommend using Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother flavor and darker color. Look for brands that list “100% cocoa” on the label, and avoid those with added sugars or fillers for the best results.
How should I store my Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies?
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For even longer freshness, place them in the refrigerator, where they can last up to 2 weeks. If you decide to freeze unfilled cookies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months!
Can I freeze the filled cookies?
Yes, you can freeze filled Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies, but I recommend being cautious. To freeze, place each filled sandwich in layers separated by parchment paper in an airtight container. They can be stored this way for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight, and then bring them to room temperature.
What should I do if my cookie dough seems too dry?
If your dough is too dry, fear not! Sometimes, variations in ingredient measurements can occur. You can easily fix this by adding a tablespoon of milk at a time until you reach a soft, pliable consistency. Just make sure not to overmix, as that can lead to tougher cookies.
Can my Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies be made dairy-free?
Very much so! To make these cookies dairy-free, substitute unsalted butter with a non-dairy butter option, and use dairy-free chocolate for the filling. For the minty filling, opt for non-dairy milk, and you're set! Enjoy these festive cookies without compromising your dietary needs.
Can I substitute crushed candy canes with something else?
Of course! If you prefer to skip crushed candy canes, you can use mini chocolate chips or even finely chopped nuts for a different texture and flavor twist in your filling. The more, the merrier when it comes to customizing your Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies!
Indulge in Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients; flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Cream together the butter, shortening, and sugar in a stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy.
- Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and add to the butter mixture, mixing thoroughly until combined.
- Add eggs one at a time to the mixture, along with the vanilla extract and mix again until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll the dough out to about ¼-inch thickness and cut out circles with a cookie cutter.
- Bake the cookie rounds for 10-12 minutes and allow to cool on sheets before transferring to a wire rack.
- In a stand mixer, combine confectioner’s sugar, corn syrup, shortening, milk, and peppermint extract until smooth.
- Fold in crushed peppermints into the filling mixture.
- Spread the mint filling on one cookie and press another on top to create a sandwich.
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