Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups

If you’re looking to add a festive touch to your holiday baking, Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups are the perfect choice! These delicious, bite-sized treats combine rich chocolate flavor with the refreshing zest of peppermint. Whether for a Christmas party, a cozy family gathering, or just because, these cookie cups are sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients:

For the cookie base:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt

For the peppermint filling:

• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tsp peppermint extract
• 2-3 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)
• ½ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

For the chocolate topping:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cookie Base:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 24-cup mini muffin pan with paper liners. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.

In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.

2. Form the Cookie Cups:

Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough for each cup and press it into the bottom of each muffin cup, creating a small indent in the center to form the “cup” shape. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are firm. Let the cookies cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then use a small spoon or your finger to gently press down the centers further to create a deep well for the filling.

3. Make the Peppermint Filling:

In a bowl, beat the powdered sugar, softened butter, peppermint extract, and 2 tablespoons of milk until smooth. If the filling is too thick, add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a creamy consistency. Gently fold in the crushed peppermint candies.

4. Fill the Cookie Cups:

Once the cookie bases have cooled completely, spoon or pipe the peppermint filling into each cup, filling them generously.

5. Make the Chocolate Topping:

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and butter together in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted. Spoon a small amount of the melted chocolate over the peppermint filling in each cookie cup, spreading it to cover the top.

6. Let the Cookies Set:

Allow the chocolate to cool and set. You can speed up this process by placing the cookie cups in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Once the chocolate is set, these Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups are ready to serve! They’re perfect for gift-giving, holiday parties, or just as a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa.

Why You’ll Love Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups:

• Perfect for the holidays: With their festive colors and minty freshness, these cookie cups bring a seasonal touch to any gathering.
• No need for cookie cutters: This easy-to-make treat doesn’t require rolling or cutting dough, making it less time-consuming but just as delicious.
• A crowd-pleaser: The combination of chocolate and peppermint is a classic, ensuring that everyone will love these cookie cups!

Tips for Success:

• Crushed peppermint: If you want extra texture, try using crushed candy canes instead of peppermint candies for a more intense mint flavor and a crunchy bite.
• Storage: Store the cookie cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate them for longer shelf life.
• Add a drizzle: For extra flair, drizzle some melted chocolate over the top of the filled cups before they set.

These Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups are a delightful, easy-to-make treat that’s sure to impress! Their combination of rich chocolate, creamy peppermint filling, and smooth chocolate topping makes them the perfect holiday indulgence.

Serving and Storage Tips for Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups

Serving Tips:

1. Presentation: Arrange the cookie cups on a festive platter, garnished with extra crushed peppermint or sprinkles for a beautiful, holiday-inspired display.
2. Pair with Drinks: These cookie cups pair wonderfully with warm beverages like hot chocolate, coffee, or a peppermint mocha. The combination of chocolate and mint is especially comforting during the winter months.
3. Perfect for Parties: These bite-sized treats are easy to serve at holiday parties or gatherings. Use mini cupcake liners for an added touch of elegance when serving.
4. Gift Giving: Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups make an excellent homemade gift! Package them in a decorative tin or box lined with parchment paper for a thoughtful and delicious present.

Storage Tips:

1. Room Temperature: Store the cookie cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This will keep the cookies soft and the peppermint filling fresh.
2. Refrigeration: If you want to extend their freshness, place the cookie cups in the refrigerator for up to a week. The colder temperature can help preserve the texture of the peppermint filling and the chocolate topping.
3. Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze these cookie cups. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
4. Avoid Moisture: To prevent the chocolate from becoming soft or melting, ensure the container is completely sealed, and avoid storing the cookie cups in a humid environment.

By following these simple serving and storage tips, you can keep your Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups fresh and ready to enjoy for any occasion!

1. Can I make these cookie cups ahead of time?
Yes, you can! You can prepare the cookie cups and store them in an airtight container for up to 5 days. You can also make the peppermint filling and chocolate topping ahead of time and assemble the cookies closer to when you’re ready to serve them.

2. Can I use mint chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips for the topping?
Absolutely! Using mint chocolate chips will enhance the peppermint flavor and complement the filling even more. Just melt the mint chocolate chips in place of the semi-sweet chocolate for a minty twist.

3. How do I make the peppermint filling without peppermint extract?
If you don’t have peppermint extract, you can use crushed peppermint candies or candy canes mixed with the powdered sugar and butter to create a minty flavor. However, peppermint extract gives a more consistent and stronger mint taste.

4. Can I make these cookie cups gluten-free?
Yes! To make these cookie cups gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. Make sure to check that all other ingredients, such as chocolate chips and peppermint candies, are gluten-free as well.

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