Peppermint Red Velvet Cookies: A Festive Treat for the Holidays

Peppermint Red Velvet Cookies

Peppermint Red Velvet Cookies are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining the rich, velvety texture of red velvet with the refreshing zing of peppermint. These cookies are not just a treat for the taste buds; they also bring a festive flair to any gathering, making them perfect for holiday celebrations or cozy winter evenings. The vibrant red color and the sweet, minty aroma create an irresistible allure that draws everyone in.

Historically, red velvet cake has roots in the Southern United States, where it became a beloved dessert. Over the years, this iconic flavor has evolved into various forms, and cookies are a popular adaptation. People love Peppermint Red Velvet Cookies for their unique combination of flavors and textures. The soft, chewy center paired with a hint of peppermint creates a delightful experience that is both comforting and exciting. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a batch in no time!

Join me as we explore this delicious recipe for Peppermint Red Velvet Cookies that will surely become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon red food coloring
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• ½ cup crushed peppermint candies (for topping)

Preparing the Dough

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
3. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps to create a smooth batter.
5. Incorporate the extracts: Add the vanilla extract and peppermint extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until well combined.
6. Color the dough: Add the red food coloring to the mixture. Start with a tablespoon and mix well. You can adjust the color to your preference by adding more if needed.
7. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
8. Fold in the chocolate chips: Gently fold in the white chocolate chips using a spatula or wooden spoon. This adds a delightful sweetness to the cookies.

Chilling the Dough

1. Chill the dough: Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the dough to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.

Baking the Cookies

1. Prepare the baking sheets: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
2. Scoop the dough: Once the dough has chilled, use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie, as they will spread while baking.
3. Add peppermint topping: Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top of each cookie dough ball. This adds a festive touch and enhances the peppermint flavor.
4. Bake the cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
5. Cool the cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle.

Storing the Cookies

1. Store in an airtight container: Once the cookies are completely cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week.
2. Freezing options: If you want to make these cookies ahead of time, you can freeze the dough before baking. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, simply bake from frozen, adding a couple of

   

   Conclusion:

   If you’re looking for a festive treat that combines the rich, velvety goodness of red velvet with a refreshing twist of peppermint, then these Peppermint Red Velvet Cookies are an absolute must-try! Not only do they boast a stunning appearance with their vibrant red color and white chocolate drizzle, but they also deliver a delightful flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. The combination of cocoa and peppermint creates a unique taste experience that is perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply indulging yourself during the winter months.

   When it comes to serving suggestions, these cookies are incredibly versatile. You can serve them warm right out of the oven for a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth experience, or let them cool completely for a firmer texture that’s perfect for stacking on a festive platter. Pair them with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat that everyone will love. For an extra touch of holiday cheer, consider adding crushed candy canes on top of the white chocolate drizzle for a crunchy texture and an even more pronounced peppermint flavor.

   If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations of this recipe. Try adding a splash of peppermint extract to the cookie dough for an intensified minty flavor, or swap out the white chocolate for dark chocolate chips for a richer taste. You could even incorporate some chopped nuts or dried cranberries for added texture and flavor. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes these Peppermint Red Velvet Cookies so special!

   I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experience with friends and family. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or just treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress. Don’t forget to snap a few photos of your delicious creations and share them on social media! I would love to see how your cookies turn out and hear about any unique twists you added to the recipe.

   So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get baking! Trust me, once you take that first bite of these delightful Peppermint Red Velvet Cookies, you’ll understand why they’re destined to become a holiday favorite in your home. Happy baking!

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   Peppermint Red Velvet Cookies: A Festive Treat for the Holidays

   These Peppermint White Chocolate Cookies are a festive holiday treat featuring a soft texture and refreshing peppermint flavor. Topped with crushed peppermint candies and white chocolate chips, they add a sweet and colorful touch to any dessert table. Perfect for sharing or enjoying during the holiday season!

   Prep Time30 minutes

   Cook Time10-12 minutes

   Total Time60 minutes

   Category: Snacks

   Yield: 24 cookies

   Save This Recipe

   Ingredients

   • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
   • 1 cup granulated sugar
   • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
   • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
   • 2 large eggs
   • 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
   • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
   • 1 teaspoon baking soda
   • ½ teaspoon salt
   • 1 tablespoon red food coloring
   • 1 cup white chocolate chips
   • ½ cup crushed peppermint candies (for topping)

   Instructions

   1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
   3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
   4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
   5. Add the vanilla extract and peppermint extract to the mixture and mix until well combined.
   6. Add the red food coloring and mix well, adjusting to your preference.
   7. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
   8. Gently fold in the white chocolate chips using a spatula or wooden spoon.
   9. Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the dough to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
   10. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
   11. Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
   12. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top of each cookie dough ball.
   13. Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked.
   14. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
   15. Once the cookies are completely cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
   16. If you want to make these cookies ahead of time, freeze the dough before baking and bake from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.

   Notes

   • Adjust the amount of red food coloring to achieve your desired shade.
   • For a stronger peppermint flavor, consider adding more peppermint extract, but do so in small increments to avoid overpowering the cookies.