These Timeless Mint Delight Cookies combine the rich flavor of chocolate with a refreshing hint of mint, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether it’s the holiday season, a family gathering, or a simple craving, these cookies offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite.
The foundation of any great cookie is the butter, lending rich flavor and texture. The combination of granulated sugar and light brown sugar gives these cookies the perfect balance of sweetness and moisture. Eggs contribute to the structure, while vanilla extract adds depth to the flavor profile. A touch of peppermint extract infuses the cookies with a refreshing minty note. The all-purpose flour and unsweetened cocoa powder create a rich, chocolatey base, while baking soda ensures they rise beautifully. A hint of salt balances the sweetness, and finally, mini chocolate chips and crushed chocolate mint candies provide extra bursts of flavor and texture.
These cookies are delightful on their own but can be elevated by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive touch, sprinkle a few extra crushed mint candies on top right before serving. They also make a great addition to a holiday cookie platter, alongside other seasonal favorites like gingerbread or shortbread cookies.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s ready for baking once your dough is prepared. While the oven heats, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating that perfect cookie texture.
Next, beat in the eggs one at a time to ensure they’re evenly incorporated. Stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts. This combination will give your cookies their signature flavor.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend this dry mixture into the creamed mixture. It’s important to add the dry ingredients slowly to prevent any lumps from forming.
Fold in the mini chocolate chips and crushed mint candies until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. This ensures that each bite is packed with chocolatey mint goodness.
Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto ungreased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing prevents the cookies from merging as they bake.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are set, but the centers remain soft. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This helps them firm up without over-baking.