Frosted Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Cookies
Delightful holiday cookies with soft, chewy textures, rich chocolate chunks, and a refreshing blast of peppermint, making them a perfect festive treat.
Ingredients
Cookie Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened To achieve a creamy texture
- 1 cup granulated sugar Adds sweetness and structure
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed Provides a slight hint of caramel flavor
- 2 large eggs Helps bind the cookie dough
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract For a warm, aromatic quality
- 3 cups all-purpose flour Base for the cookies
- 1 teaspoon baking soda Essential for the perfect rise
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances flavors
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chunks Delivers rich chocolatey goodness
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies Adds an invigorating crunch
Frosting Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened For creaminess
- 2 cups powdered sugar Brings sweetness and a smooth texture
- 2 tablespoons milk To achieve a silky consistency
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract For extra flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract For a refreshing minty finish
Garnish
- Crushed peppermint candies For festive garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chunks and crushed peppermint candies.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each.
Baking
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and centers remain slightly soft.
- Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting
- In a bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, beating until fluffy.
- Spread frosting generously on the top of each cookie.
- Garnish with crushed peppermint candies.
Notes
For deeper flavor, toast chocolate chunks lightly before adding to the dough. Substitute other candies for unique variations. Chill dough for 30 minutes before baking for enhanced texture.