Striped Peppermint Sandwich Cookies

Introduction

These Striped Peppermint Sandwich Cookies are the ultimate holiday treat! I first made them as part of my festive baking lineup, and they quickly became a family favorite. The combination of the crisp chocolate cookies with the smooth, minty candy coating is a winning combination. The decorative red stripes add a fun, festive touch, making them perfect for holiday gifting or serving at a Christmas party. The cookies are not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them a standout treat. Every bite is filled with the refreshing taste of peppermint, and the chocolate cookie provides the perfect balance of sweetness. Whether you’re celebrating with family or sending them as gifts, these cookies are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love Striped Peppermint Sandwich Cookies

These Striped Peppermint Sandwich Cookies are a delightful blend of chocolate and mint, with a touch of festive flair. Here’s why you’ll love them:

• Refreshing Mint Flavor: The peppermint extract in the candy coating gives these cookies a refreshing, cool mint flavor that’s perfect for the holiday season.
• Chocolate and Mint Combination: The contrast of the rich chocolate cookies with the bright, minty candy coating makes for an irresistible flavor combination.
• Decorative and Festive: The luster dust stripes add a beautiful, holiday-worthy finish to these cookies, making them not only delicious but visually striking.
• Perfect for Gifting: These cookies are great for holiday gifting, as they’re easy to make in large batches and look impressive when wrapped in festive packaging.
• Simple to Make: With just a few ingredients, this recipe is simple and easy to execute, even for beginners.

Ingredients

• 1 (12-ounce) package bright white candy melts
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (plus additional for brushing)
• 22 chocolate sandwich cookies (such as Oreos)
• 1/2 teaspoon red or pink luster dust

Instructions

1. Prepare the Candy Coating:
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Melt the candy melts according to package directions. Stir in coconut oil or vegetable oil and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract until the mixture is smooth.
2. Dip the Cookies:
   • Using a fork, dip one cookie at a time into the melted candy coating. Tap the fork gently to remove any excess coating.
   • Place the coated cookies on the prepared baking sheet. Allow the cookies to set at room temperature for about 20 minutes until the coating has hardened.
3. Add Decorative Stripes:
   • In a small bowl, mix the luster dust with a few drops of peppermint extract to create a paste that is brushable.
   • Use a small, food-safe paintbrush to paint stripes or lines across the tops of the cookies. Let the cookies sit for a few more minutes to allow the luster dust to dry and set.
4. Store and Serve:
   • Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
   • These cookies are perfect for holiday gifting or as a delightful party treat.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 22 cookies
• Calories per serving: 180
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 30mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes (includes setting time)
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• As a Holiday Treat: Serve these cookies at a holiday gathering or Christmas party for a sweet, festive treat.
• For Gifting: Package the cookies in a gift box or treat bag to make a lovely holiday gift for family and friends.
• With a Hot Beverage: These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of hot chocolate, coffee, or tea, making them a perfect dessert for chilly evenings.
• As a Dessert Table Addition: These cookies are great for dessert tables, especially during the holidays, as they add a pop of color and sweetness.
• For a Festive Snack: Enjoy them as a fun, sweet snack during the holidays, perfect for indulging in during a break from holiday shopping or activities.

Additional Tips

1. Use High-Quality Candy Melts: For the best coating, use high-quality candy melts. They provide a smooth and glossy finish.
2. Add More Peppermint: If you love peppermint flavor, you can add a few extra drops of peppermint extract to the candy coating for a stronger mint flavor.
3. Chill the Cookies: After dipping, you can chill the cookies in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to speed up the setting process.
4. Experiment with Color: Feel free to use different colors of luster dust, like green or gold, for a different look or to match a particular theme.
5. Use a Piping Bag for Precision: If you want to add even more intricate designs, use a piping bag filled with melted candy coating to make more precise stripes or designs.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of cookie? Yes, you can use any type of chocolate sandwich cookie, or even plain cookies, depending on your preference.
2. What is luster dust? Luster dust is a food-safe powder that can be mixed with liquids to create a shiny, decorative finish on baked goods. It’s often used for adding color or shimmer.
3. Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Yes, you can make these cookies ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
4. Can I substitute the candy melts with chocolate? While candy melts provide a smooth finish, you can substitute them with tempered chocolate if you prefer, though it might not have the same shine.
5. Can I use other extracts instead of peppermint? Yes, you can substitute peppermint extract with other extracts like vanilla, almond, or even orange for a different flavor profile.
6. How can I store leftover luster dust? Store leftover luster dust in a cool, dry place, sealed in an airtight container. It can be used for other baking projects.
7. Can I freeze these cookies? Yes, you can freeze these cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them before transferring to an airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
8. What’s the best way to melt candy melts? The best way to melt candy melts is to use a microwave in short 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or to use a double boiler on the stovetop.
9. Can I add sprinkles or other decorations? Yes, you can add sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or other festive decorations to the cookies before the coating hardens for extra flair.
10. How do I get a smooth, even coat on the cookies? Use a fork to dip the cookies and tap it gently to remove any excess coating, ensuring a smooth and even layer on each cookie.

Conclusion

These Striped Peppermint Sandwich Cookies are the perfect treat for the holiday season. With their festive appearance and refreshing peppermint flavor, they’re sure to be a hit at any party or as a gift for friends and family. The candy coating, coupled with the beautiful luster dust stripes, makes them both delicious and visually stunning. Whether you’re baking for a holiday celebration or just looking for a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to add some extra cheer to your festivities. Enjoy the process of making them, and savor the delicious result!

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