Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies are a delightful treat that’s perfect for the holidays or any time you crave something sweet. These cookies have a rich chocolate flavor paired with a refreshing hint of peppermint. They are soft and creamy, making them ideal for sharing with family and friends or enjoying as a cozy afternoon snack.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

These Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. The combination of chocolate and mint is a classic that everyone enjoys. With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can whip these up quickly. They are great for holiday gatherings or just because you want a sweet treat. Plus, they’re always a hit with kids and adults alike!

How to Make These Cookies

Making these cookies is straightforward. You’ll start by creaming the butter and sugars together, then mix in eggs and vanilla. After that, combine your dry ingredients and fold in the chocolate chips and peppermint extract. Finally, bake the cookies until they are set, cool them, and fill them with creamy frosting. It’s a fun and rewarding process!

What You Need

1 cup butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chocolate chips
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk

Step-by-Step

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture.
Stir in chocolate chips and peppermint extract.
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets.
Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until edges are set.
Allow to cool completely.
For the frosting, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract until fluffy.
Spread frosting on the flat side of one cookie and sandwich with another cookie. Enjoy your festive treats!

How to Serve

These cookies are fantastic on their own but can also be enjoyed with a glass of milk or a cup of hot chocolate. They are perfect for holiday parties, cookie platters, or just a cozy family night at home. Feel free to sprinkle some crushed candy canes on top for an extra festive touch!

How to Store These Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can also be stored in the fridge if you prefer a firmer texture. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Just make sure they’re in a freezer bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature.

Recipe Tips

Make sure your butter is truly softened for easier mixing.
Don’t overbake the cookies; they should be soft when you take them out.
Experiment with different types of chocolate chips for a fun twist.
Add a little more peppermint extract if you love strong mint flavor.
You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for later use.

Variations & Swaps

For a white chocolate version, use white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.
Swap the peppermint extract with almond extract for a different flavor profile.
Make these gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Add crushed nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a crunchy texture.
Use different frostings, like vanilla or chocolate, to change things up.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to three days. You can also bake the cookies a day or two in advance and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the baked cookies and thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy. For the best results, separate layers with parchment paper in an airtight container.

How do I reheat these cookies?
To reheat, place the cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warm. This will help restore their soft texture.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Yes! You can use margarine for butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

What are common mistakes to avoid?
One common mistake is overmixing the dough, which can result in tough cookies. Also, be careful not to overbake; they should look slightly underbaked when you take them out for optimal softness.