Hot Cocoa Peppermint Cookies

Introduction

I made these Hot Cocoa Peppermint Cookies for a family gathering last weekend, and let me tell you, they were a hit! The rich, chocolatey cookies paired perfectly with the peppermint frosting, and the crushed candy canes added a delightful crunch. My family loved them so much that they disappeared in no time. These cookies are the perfect combination of holiday flavors and an excellent choice for any festive occasion. The best part is how easy they are to make, with simple ingredients that yield a delicious treat. Whether you’re baking for Christmas, a winter party, or just because you’re in the mood for something sweet, these cookies will not disappoint.

Why You’ll Love Hot Cocoa Peppermint Cookies

These Hot Cocoa Peppermint Cookies are a delightful treat that brings the flavors of winter to your kitchen in just a few simple steps. With rich chocolate cookies, creamy peppermint frosting, and a crunchy candy cane topping, they truly embody the essence of the holiday season. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love these cookies:

• Chocolate and Peppermint Fusion: The combination of triple chocolate fudge cake mix and peppermint frosting gives you a delicious balance of flavors that everyone will enjoy.
• Quick and Easy: With only a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can bake up a batch of these cookies in under 30 minutes.
• Festive and Fun: The crushed candy cane topping adds a festive touch that makes these cookies perfect for holiday gatherings and parties.
• Soft and Chewy: These cookies are soft and chewy on the inside with a slightly crisp edge, making each bite a perfect combination of textures.

Ingredients

For the cookies:

• 1 box Triple Chocolate Fudge Cake Mix
• 1/2 cup oil
• 2 eggs

For the frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• Pinch of salt
• 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
• 6 teaspoons heavy whipping cream
• 4 cups powdered sugar

For garnish:

• Crushed candy canes

Instructions

Prepare the Cookies:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, oil, and eggs. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
3. Scoop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 9 minutes. Once done, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

Prepare the Frosting:

1. In a mixing bowl, whip the butter for 8 minutes at medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy.
2. Add the salt, peppermint extract, heavy cream, and 2 cups of powdered sugar. Mix on low speed for 1 minute, then on medium speed for 3 minutes.
3. Gradually add the remaining powdered sugar, mixing on low for 1 minute, then on medium speed for another 5 minutes until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Cookies:

1. Once the cookies have cooled, spread a generous layer of frosting on each one.
2. Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the frosted cookies to add a festive touch.

Nutrition Facts (Servings and calories per serving)

• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 200 calories per cookie

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 9 minutes
• Total Time: 29 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve these cookies on a platter at your next holiday gathering or party.
• Pair them with a hot cup of cocoa or a glass of milk for the ultimate treat.
• These cookies also make great homemade gifts for friends, family, or coworkers—just package them in a festive box or bag.
• Store them in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
• These cookies are perfect for adding to a dessert table or as part of a Christmas cookie exchange.

Additional Tips

1. Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can result in dense cookies. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
2. Let the Frosting Set: Allow the frosting to set before serving, so it doesn’t smudge or slide off the cookies.
3. Add More Peppermint: If you love a strong peppermint flavor, feel free to add more peppermint extract to the frosting.
4. Chill the Dough: If you have time, chill the cookie dough in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before baking. This will help the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
5. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh baking powder and powdered sugar help ensure the best texture and flavor for the frosting.

FAQ

1. Can I use a different cake mix flavor? Yes! If you prefer a different flavor, you can use a regular chocolate cake mix or even a vanilla cake mix for a different twist.
2. How can I make these cookies gluten-free? You can substitute the regular cake mix with a gluten-free chocolate cake mix for a gluten-free version of these cookies.
3. Can I make these cookies in advance? Absolutely! You can bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Frost them just before serving for the freshest taste.
4. What if I don’t have peppermint extract? You can substitute peppermint extract with mint extract, or even use a little bit of crushed mint candies in the frosting for a similar flavor.
5. Can I freeze the cookies? Yes! Bake the cookies and allow them to cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
6. How do I get my frosting to be smooth? Ensure the butter is soft before whipping, and gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing to avoid lumps.
7. How can I make these cookies more festive? Try adding red and green sprinkles to the frosting or drizzling melted white chocolate on top for an extra special touch.
8. Can I use margarine instead of butter for the frosting? While margarine can be substituted for butter, it may result in a slightly different texture for the frosting.
9. How thick should the frosting be? The frosting should be thick enough to spread generously on the cookies without dripping off.
10. Can I make these cookies without frosting? Yes! If you prefer, you can skip the frosting and just enjoy the cookies as they are, or sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for a simple finish.

Conclusion

These Hot Cocoa Peppermint Cookies are the perfect holiday treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the refreshing taste of peppermint. With their soft, chewy texture, creamy frosting, and festive garnish, they make for a delightful addition to any winter celebration. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, a cookie exchange, or just for fun, these cookies are sure to please everyone. Plus, with the simple ingredients and quick preparation time, they’re as easy to make as they are delicious. Enjoy this tasty treat with your family and friends, and embrace the holiday spirit with every bite!

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