Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups

Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups: Easy 30-Minute Bliss!

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Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups: Easy 30-Minute Bliss!

Get ready to infuse your kitchen with holiday cheer and an irresistible aroma! Today, we’re diving into a recipe that promises pure delight: Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups. These adorable, bite-sized treats combine rich chocolatey goodness with a refreshing burst of peppermint, all made incredibly easy and quick. Perfect for gatherings, a cozy night in, or simply satisfying that sweet tooth, these cookie cups are an absolute must-try this season.

Imagine soft, chewy cookie bases holding a decadent chocolate center, crowned with crushed peppermint. They’re a truly festive and delicious easy dessert that comes together in about 30 minutes. Let’s bake some magic!

Table of Contents

Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that cradles a gooey chocolate ganache, all topped with a sprinkle of refreshing peppermint. That’s exactly what you get with these incredible Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups!

They’re not just delicious; they’re also a breeze to make, meaning you can whip up a batch for unexpected guests or a sudden craving in no time. This quick bake recipe is perfect for busy schedules.

Beyond their undeniable festive charm, these cookie cups are a dream come true for several reasons. They strike the perfect balance between rich chocolate and cool peppermint, creating a flavor combination that’s truly addictive.

They’re also incredibly versatile and can be customized with various toppings. Plus, they’re perfectly portioned, making them an ideal treat for sharing or enjoying solo. These make fantastic holiday cookies!

Let’s get everything ready before we begin our baking adventure. Most of these ingredients are likely already in your pantry!

  • 1 roll (16.5 oz) refrigerated chocolate chip cookie dough (or your favorite homemade recipe)
  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, melted
  • 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (food grade)
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

Ready to transform simple ingredients into something magical? Follow these easy steps to create your delightful Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups.

4.1. Step 1: Prep & Preheat for Success

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or line it with paper liners. This ensures your cookie cups come out perfectly.

Unroll your refrigerated cookie dough. If making homemade, prepare your dough as usual.

Divide the cookie dough into 24 small, even pieces. Press each piece gently into the prepared mini muffin cups, forming a small cup shape.

Ensure the dough reaches up the sides slightly to create a good “cup” for your filling. This forms the base for your delicious treats.

4.3. Step 3: Baking Your Peppermint Treasures

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers might look a little soft, but they will set as they cool.

Immediately after removing from the oven, use the back of a spoon or a small tart tamper to gently press down the centers of the cookies again, reinforcing the cup shape. Let them cool completely in the tin before carefully removing them.

4.4. Step 4: Decorate & Drizzle for Delight

While the cookie cups cool, prepare your filling. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and peppermint extract to create a luscious peppermint chocolate ganache.

Spoon or pipe the chocolate peppermint mixture into the cooled cookie cups. Top generously with crushed peppermint candies. Let the filling set slightly before serving, or chill for faster setting.

Want to take your Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups to the next level? Here are a few expert tips and fun variations:

  • Use quality chocolate: A good quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate will make all the difference in your ganache.
  • Homemade dough: If you have time, a homemade chocolate cookie dough base makes these even more special.
  • White chocolate drizzle: Drizzle with melted white chocolate over the top before adding the crushed peppermint for extra visual appeal and flavor.
  • Candy Cane Kisses: For an even easier filling, place a Hershey’s Candy Cane Kiss in the warm cookie cups right after baking and let it melt slightly before spreading.
  • Nutty twist: Add a pinch of finely chopped nuts to the cookie dough for texture.

These cookie cups recipe treats are incredibly versatile! They make a fantastic addition to any holiday dessert platter, adding a pop of color and festive flavor. Serve them alongside a warm mug of hot cocoa or coffee for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.

They’re also perfect for gifting! Arrange them in a decorative box with tissue paper for a homemade present that everyone will adore. They’re a truly perfect 30-minute dessert for any occasion.

8. Other Festive Desserts You’ll Love

If you’re looking for more holiday baking inspiration, there’s a whole world of delicious treats waiting to be discovered! For another delightful seasonal indulgence, explore these easy Christmas dessert recipes on Allrecipes. You might find your next favorite!

Don’t stop the baking fun here! See others recipes here .

Can I freeze Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups?

Yes, these cookie cups freeze beautifully! For best results, freeze them without the crushed peppermint topping. Once the chocolate filling is firm, place the cookie cups in a single layer in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper, for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature and add fresh crushed peppermint before serving.

How should I store leftover cookie cups?

Store your finished Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If your kitchen is very warm, or if you prefer a firmer chocolate filling, you can store them in the refrigerator. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature for optimal taste and texture before serving.

What if I can’t find peppermint extract?

If you don’t have peppermint extract, you can still achieve a lovely mint flavor! You can try using a very small amount (a drop or two) of food-grade mint essential oil (ensure it’s safe for consumption). Alternatively, for a subtle mint hint, you could simply melt some white chocolate with a few crushed peppermints, strain them out, and use the infused white chocolate as a drizzle or base for your filling.

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