Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that combines rich chocolate cookies with a creamy peppermint filling. These cookies are perfect for festive gatherings, gift-giving, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa!

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cookies:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Peppermint Filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
• Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (for garnish, optional)

Timing

Making Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies takes about 20 minutes for preparation and 10-12 minutes for baking.

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Chocolate Cookies

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Mix Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 2: Bake the Cookies

1. Scoop Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set. The centers may look slightly soft; they will firm up as they cool.
3. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Peppermint Filling

1. Mix Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until combined.
2. Add Peppermint: Stir in the peppermint extract and enough milk to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich Cookies

1. Fill Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread a generous amount of peppermint filling on the flat side of half of the cookies. Top with the remaining cookies, pressing gently to create a sandwich.
2. Garnish: If desired, roll the edges of the filled cookies in crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies (per cookie, based on about 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Cookie
Calories	150
Protein	1g
Fat	7g
Carbohydrates	21g
Sugar	10g

Tips for Customization

• Chocolate Variations: Use dark chocolate cocoa powder for a richer flavor.
• Different Fillings: Experiment with different extracts, such as vanilla or almond, for the filling.
• Decorate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the assembled cookies for added flair.

Storage Instructions

Store the Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze the cookies.

Conclusion

Chocolate Peppermint Sandwich Cookies are a deliciously festive treat that brings together the classic flavors of chocolate and peppermint. Perfect for sharing during the holiday season, these cookies are sure to be a hit!

FAQs

Can I make the cookie dough in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time, refrigerate it for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw and bake when ready.

Are these cookies suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! Package them in a decorative tin or box for a thoughtful homemade gift.