Dark Chocolate Peppermint Crinkles
Try this Dark Chocolate Peppermint Crinkles recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Dark Chocolate Peppermint Crinkles recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/4 teaspoon table salt
- 3/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 cups packed light brown sugar
- 2/3 cup (2 oz) unsweetened cocoa (sift out the lumps) i do
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract (i used the it's so much better)
- 8 oz (good quality) bittersweet dark chocolate, 85% cacao, melted and mostly cooled
- 4 oz (good quality) semisweet chocolate (think lindt or chopped
- 40 candy cane hershey's kisses unwrapped
- Carbohydrate 5.5113492545635 g
- Cholesterol 56.8857500103234 mg
- Fat 10.2392087538946 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 1.07642325004639 g
- Saturated Fat 6.23068277746648 g
- Serving Size 1 1 cookie (34g)
- Sodium 61.04447500183 mg
- Sugar 5.5113492545635 g
- Trans Fat 0.803069725272635 g
- Calories 116 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F with the rack in the middle position.
- Prepare each baking sheet with silicone mats or parchment paper. I used two 12 x 18 rimmed baking sheets, 20 cookies on each tray.
- Whisk together flour, baking soda and salt in a medium bowl.
- In the bowl of your stand mixer, using the paddle attachment, beat the butter, brown sugar, cocoa, vanilla and peppermint extract until well combined; 4-5 minutes.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating them in before adding another.
- Add melted (but cooled) chocolate and mix until blended, about 1 minute.
- Add the flour mixture and mix on low speed until just blended.
- Stir in the chopped chocolate (it will take some muscle).
- Shape dough into balls (2 level Tablespoons or 30 grams each).
- Dip the tops of each of the balls into granulated sugar and set the balls sugar side up.
- The dough does not need to be chilled. Dough does not spread large so I was able to get 20 dough balls on each tray. Four balls in a row (no more).
- Bake one sheet at a time for 11 minutes.
- Remove cookies (let them finish cooking out of the oven) and gently press Hershey's Kiss into the middle of each cookie.
- Do not move your trays or your cookies until they are completely cool or your Kisses will fall flat. This might take a couple of hours. Just leave them alone and go do the laundry. Twice.
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Crinkles: A Holiday Baking Delight
The aroma of freshly baked cookies fills my kitchen, a comforting scent that always brings back memories of cozy evenings and family gatherings. This year, I decided to experiment with a classic recipe and elevate it to new heights of deliciousness: Dark Chocolate Peppermint Crinkles. These cookies are not just a treat; they are a holiday experience, a perfect blend of rich dark chocolate and refreshing peppermint that leaves you wanting more.
The inspiration for these cookies came from a desire to create something special for the upcoming holiday season. I love the festive combination of dark chocolate and peppermint, and I wanted a cookie that captured that essence beautifully. The crinkle texture, achieved by rolling the dough balls in sugar before baking, adds a delightful textural contrast to the intensely flavorful interior. It’s the kind of cookie that's perfect for sharing with loved ones, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of hot cocoa.
What sets these crinkles apart is the quality of the ingredients I use. I always opt for good-quality bittersweet dark chocolate with a high cacao percentage (85% in this case), as this ensures a deep, intense chocolate flavor that's not overly sweet. The peppermint extract adds a subtle but invigorating coolness that balances the richness of the chocolate perfectly. I also make sure to use good quality cocoa powder and vanilla extract to enhance the overall flavor profile. The little details make all the difference when it comes to baking; it's the same philosophy I apply to all aspects of my life. I don't cut corners, and I ensure quality and good taste in everything that I do. Whether it’s choosing the right ingredients, or perfecting my technique, I strive for excellence in all that I do.
The process of making these cookies is surprisingly straightforward. It involves the simple steps of mixing the ingredients, shaping the dough into balls, coating them in sugar, and baking them until they are perfectly crinkled and slightly chewy. The most important tip I can give you is to let the cookies cool completely before handling them. The Hershey's Kisses nestled in the center will melt if the cookies are still warm, so patience is key. Take your time; let the cookies cool thoroughly and enjoy the full sensory experience. This is not just about creating cookies; it is about creating a moment of joy and celebration.
Baking these cookies has become a tradition for me, a ritual that connects me to the spirit of the season. It’s a chance to slow down, to focus on the simple pleasures of creating something delicious, and to share that joy with those I care about. These cookies are more than just a recipe; they are a symbol of warmth, connection, and the joy of the holiday season.
Beyond the holiday season, these cookies remain a constant source of pleasure. Their versatility makes them suitable for any occasion. Whether it's a casual afternoon tea, a celebratory gathering, or a simple moment of self-indulgence, these dark chocolate peppermint crinkles always hit the spot. And, if you're someone who prioritizes good quality and delightful flavors, you will definitely adore these cookies. Their taste is divine; a testament to the belief that using good-quality ingredients yields superior results.
So, gather your ingredients, put on some festive music, and get ready to experience the magic of homemade dark chocolate peppermint crinkles. You won't be disappointed. Trust me on this.
The journey of crafting these delectable treats extends beyond just the recipe. It involves sourcing the finest ingredients, from the bittersweet dark chocolate to the pure peppermint extract. I believe in investing time and effort into choosing high-quality components; this belief extends to all aspects of my life, from selecting ingredients for my recipes to pursuing meaningful experiences and relationships. Each choice plays a vital role in creating something truly special and rewarding.
From the initial whisking of flour and sugar to the final, satisfying press of the Hershey’s Kiss into the warm cookie, the entire process is an intimate and enjoyable experience. It’s a moment of mindfulness, a chance to escape the everyday hustle, and to focus solely on the creation of something delightful and meaningful. This meticulous approach is not limited to baking alone; I bring this same level of dedication to everything I do, ensuring that the outcome reflects my commitment to excellence.
