As the holiday season approaches, there's nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies filling the air. Inspired by the famous cookies of New York, we're here to introduce you to a delectable treat that combines the rich flavor of dark chocolate with the refreshing kick of peppermint. Our copy - cat giant peppermint - chocolate cookie recipe is not just a dessert; it's a holiday tradition in the making.
Let's start with the ingredients. You'll need all - purpose flour, baking soda, salt, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, an egg, vanilla extract, dark chocolate chips, and peppermint candies. The quality of your ingredients matters greatly. Opt for high - quality dark chocolate chips with at least 70% cocoa content for that intense chocolate flavor. And the peppermint candies? You can use crushed candy canes for an extra festive touch.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that the dry ingredients are well - combined and evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough later on. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process can take a few minutes, but it's crucial for creating a tender and moist cookie.
Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract. The egg acts as a binder, holding the dough together, while the vanilla extract adds a warm and inviting flavor. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to over - mix, as this can result in tough cookies. After that, fold in the dark chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies. The chocolate chips will melt slightly during baking, creating a gooey center, and the peppermint will provide a burst of freshness.
Now, it's time to shape the cookies. Use a large cookie scoop to portion out the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave some space between each cookie, as they will spread during baking. Press down on the dough slightly to flatten it a bit. You can also sprinkle some extra crushed peppermint candies on top for added decoration and flavor.
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 - 12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as ovens can vary in temperature. Once the cookies are done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the cookies to set and become easier to handle.
These giant peppermint - chocolate cookies are not only delicious but also make for a great gift. You can package them in a festive tin or box and share them with friends, family, or neighbors. They're perfect for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or just as a sweet treat to enjoy by the fireplace on a cold winter evening.
Moreover, you can get creative with this recipe. If you don't have peppermint candies, you can try using other flavors like orange zest or coconut flakes. You can also add a drizzle of white chocolate on top for an extra touch of decadence. The possibilities are endless.
In conclusion, our copy - cat giant peppermint - chocolate cookie recipe is a must - try this holiday season. It combines the classic flavors of chocolate and peppermint in a way that is both comforting and exciting. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and start baking these delicious cookies. Your taste buds and your loved ones will thank you.
