Description
Delight in these festive Hot Cocoa Peppermint Cookies, combining the rich chocolate flavor of a fudge cake mix with a creamy peppermint buttercream frosting. Perfectly soft and topped with crushed candy canes, these cookies bring holiday cheer with every bite.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 box Triple Chocolate Fudge Cake Mix
- 1/2 cup oil
- 2 eggs
Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- Pinch of salt
- 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
- 6 teaspoons heavy whipping cream
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- Crushed candy canes, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the cookies evenly.
- Prepare Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the triple chocolate fudge cake mix, oil, and eggs. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Scoop Dough: Using a spoon, drop portions of the cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them evenly.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies for 9 minutes. Once baked, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, preparing for frosting.
- Whip Butter: In a separate mixing bowl, whip the softened unsalted butter at medium speed for 8 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy, forming the base of the frosting.
- Add Flavor and Cream: Incorporate the salt, peppermint extract, heavy whipping cream, and 2 cups of powdered sugar. Mix on low speed for 1 minute, then increase to medium speed for 3 minutes to blend smoothly.
- Complete Frosting: Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of powdered sugar while mixing on low for 1 minute, then on medium speed for 5 minutes until the frosting is smooth, creamy, and spreadable.
- Frost and Decorate: Spread a generous layer of the peppermint buttercream frosting on each cooled cookie. Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top to add a festive, crunchy finish.
Notes
- Do not overmix the cookie dough to maintain a soft texture.
- Ensure cookies are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- Use high-quality peppermint extract for a strong, refreshing flavor.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 5 days.
- For extra festive presentation, use red and white crushed candy canes or garnish with mini candy cane pieces.
