Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup butter (2 sticks), softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar, for rolling
For Sprinkling and Dipping
- 6-8 candy canes, or about 12 mini candy canes, crushed
- 1 (6-oz) cup dark chocolate chips, or semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon shortening
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the peppermint extract to infuse the dough with festive flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sifted unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to form a smooth dough.
- Shape and Roll Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a cookie scoop or spoon, form dough balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Roll each ball in the 1/2 cup granulated sugar to coat completely, which will give the cookies a delicate crunchy exterior.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the coated dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cookies are set but still soft. Remove from oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare the Chocolate Dip: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and shortening. Microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth. This creates a glossy coating perfect for dipping.
- Dip the Cookies: Dip each cooled cookie halfway into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Immediately sprinkle the dipped portion with crushed candy canes for a festive crunch and peppermint flavor. Place dipped cookies back on parchment paper to set.
- Let Chocolate Set: Allow the chocolate coating to harden at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or speed up the process by refrigerating for 10-15 minutes. Once set, the cookies are ready to enjoy or store in an airtight container.
Notes
- You can substitute peppermint extract with vanilla extract if preferred, but the peppermint adds a signature holiday flavor.
- Use good quality cocoa powder for the richest chocolate taste.
- Be careful not to overbake the cookies; they should be soft in the center to stay chewy.
- If candy canes are not available, crushed peppermint candies or candy melts can be used instead.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American