Are you ready to bake up some holiday magic? These Peppermint Blossoms cookies are not only incredibly delicious but also unbelievably easy to make. Perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike, this recipe delivers a delightful combination of chocolate and peppermint that's guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready for a quick and rewarding baking experience that will fill your kitchen with the sweet aroma of Christmas. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ cup crushed candy canes
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is crucial for achieving a tender cookie. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 3: Add Chocolate Chips and Candy Canes
Stir in the chocolate chips and crushed candy canes until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Peppermint Blossoms:
- Softened Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is truly softened; this will help create a smooth and creamy dough.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.
- Adjust the Candy Cane: Feel free to adjust the amount of crushed candy canes to your liking. You can even use different types of candy canes for variations in flavor.
Variations:
- Dark Chocolate Delight: Substitute dark chocolate chips for semi-sweet chocolate chips for a richer, more intense flavor.
- White Chocolate Peppermint: Use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a delightful twist.
- Nutty Peppermint Blossoms: Add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for added texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-180 Fat: Approximately 8-10g Sugar: Approximately 15-20g
These Peppermint Blossoms are the perfect addition to your holiday baking repertoire. Their festive flavors and simple preparation make them ideal for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy the deliciousness and the joy of homemade cooking! They're a guaranteed hit at any holiday gathering – or just a perfect treat for a cozy night in!