Introduction
This holiday season, delight your family and friends with these irresistible Peppermint Crunch Balls! Soft, chewy, and bursting with the refreshing taste of peppermint, these delightful treats are as easy to make as they are to devour. Each bite offers a wonderful blend of chocolate and a sweet crunch, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings by the fire. Let’s get started on this festive journey in the kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup crushed peppermint candies
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and confectioners’ sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a delightful base for your cookies.
- Add the unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, salt, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined, ensuring a smooth and chocolatey dough.
- Gently stir in the crushed peppermint candies, allowing their vibrant bits to distribute evenly throughout the dough for that perfect burst of flavor.
- Using your hands, shape the dough into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them out to allow for spreading.
- For extra firmness, refrigerate the baking sheet with the cookie balls for about 30 minutes. This step ensures a perfectly textured cookie.
- While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), filling your kitchen with the warm aroma of baking.
- Once ready, bake the cookie balls in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. They should be set in the middle but soft to the touch, promising a chewy texture once cooled.
- After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely, filling your home with that irresistible peppermint-chocolate aroma!
Notes or Tips
- For an additional holiday flair, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled cookies before serving.
- If you can’t find crushed peppermint candies, you can easily crush candy canes for a similar effect.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, but they’re so delicious, they probably won’t last that long!
Cooking Techniques
When creaming the butter and sugars, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture. Be mindful not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to tougher cookies. The refrigerating step is crucial; it helps the cookie retain its shape and enhances its texture by allowing the fats to solidify.
FAQ
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
No problem! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
Can I substitute ingredients?
Absolutely! You can use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version. Just ensure it’s melted before mixing.
Conclusion
These Peppermint Crunch Balls are a delightful holiday treat that brings joy and warmth to any occasion. With rich chocolate flavor and the refreshing crunch of peppermint, they’re sure to become a favorite sweet indulgence in your home. Bake a batch today and spread the cheer with these every-bite delicious cookies! Happy baking!