Peppermint Red Velvet Blossom Cookies

Looking for the perfect cookie to brighten your holiday celebrations? Peppermint Red Velvet Blossom Cookies combine the rich, velvety taste of red velvet with a festive peppermint twist. These cookies are not only delicious but also stunning to look at, making them a show-stopping addition to any dessert table.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Red food coloring (gel preferred)

For the Topping:

• Peppermint Hershey’s Kisses or candy cane-flavored chocolates

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   Cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a mixing bowl until fluffy. Add eggs, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, mixing well. Gradually incorporate the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Add red food coloring to achieve the desired hue.
2. Chill the Dough:
   Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step ensures the cookies hold their shape while baking.
3. Shape the Cookies:
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Bake to Perfection:
   Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
5. Add the Peppermint Kiss:
   Immediately press a peppermint candy into the center of each cookie while they’re still warm. Allow cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet.

Pro Tips for Success:

• Use Gel Food Coloring: Gel food coloring provides vibrant red tones without thinning the dough.
• Chill for Uniform Cookies: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading, ensuring each cookie is perfectly round.
• Work Quickly: Add the peppermint candies right after baking for them to adhere properly.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these cookies at holiday parties, gift exchanges, or as an after-dinner treat with a mug of hot cocoa. Their festive red hue and peppermint flair make them irresistible.

Storage Tips:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies:

Peppermint Red Velvet Blossom Cookies are a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The chewy red velvet cookie base contrasts beautifully with the cool, creamy peppermint center. These cookies are as delightful to eat as they are to share.

Make a batch today and enjoy the magic of peppermint and red velvet in every bite!

Serving and Storage Tips for Peppermint Red Velvet Blossom Cookies

Serving Tips

1. Festive Presentation:
   Arrange the cookies on a decorative holiday platter lined with parchment paper or a festive napkin. Their vibrant red hue and peppermint centers will stand out beautifully.
2. Pair with Beverages:
   These cookies pair perfectly with hot chocolate, mulled cider, or peppermint tea. For a sophisticated twist, serve them with a peppermint mocha or latte.
3. Create Gift Packages:
   Pack the cookies in festive boxes or bags lined with wax paper. Add a holiday ribbon and a personalized tag for a thoughtful homemade gift.
4. Holiday Dessert Table:
   Combine them with other seasonal treats like sugar cookies, gingerbread, or fudge for a colorful and diverse dessert spread.
5. Serve Slightly Warm:
   For an extra touch, warm the cookies slightly in the microwave (about 5-10 seconds) before serving to soften the peppermint center.

Storage Tips

1. At Room Temperature:
   • Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
   • Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
   • They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days.
2. Refrigeration (Optional):
   • If your environment is warm, refrigerate the cookies to prevent the peppermint center from melting.
   • Store in a sealed container to avoid absorbing other odors.
3. Freezing for Longer Storage:
   • Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
   • Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with wax or parchment paper.
   • Label and date the container. Cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.
   • To enjoy, thaw at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes or warm in the microwave.
4. Preventing Sticking:
   • If storing in layers, place parchment paper between them to prevent the cookies from sticking together.

By following these tips, you can enjoy the festive delight of Peppermint Red Velvet Blossom Cookies throughout the holiday season, whether as a treat for yourself or as a gift for loved ones!

1. Can I use a different type of peppermint candy?
   Absolutely! While peppermint Hershey’s Kisses are traditional, you can substitute them with other peppermint-flavored chocolates or even crushed candy canes for a creative twist.
2. Do I have to chill the dough before baking?
   Yes, chilling the dough is recommended. It helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking and ensures a chewy texture. Skipping this step may result in cookies that spread too much.
3. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
   Definitely! You can prepare the dough up to 48 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Alternatively, freeze the dough balls for up to 3 months and bake them straight from the freezer, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
4. How do I keep the peppermint candies from melting?
   Press the peppermint candy into the cookie immediately after removing it from the oven. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet to let the candy set without melting entirely. Storing them in a cool place also helps preserve the candy’s shape.

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