Peppermint Patty Stuffed Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

There’s something magical about the combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint. It’s a pairing that, when perfectly executed, can take your taste buds on a delightful journey. Enter these Peppermint Patty Stuffed Chocolate Crinkle Cookies: soft, fudgy chocolate cookies with a surprise minty center. They are perfect for any holiday gathering or just a cozy night at home. With a crinkly exterior and a gooey peppermint patty in the middle, these cookies not only look stunning but taste absolutely divine. Prepare to become the star of your next cookie swap!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

These cookies are more than just visually appealing; they are a wonderful marriage of flavors and textures. The melted chocolate gives each cookie a deep, rich taste, while the peppermint adds a refreshing kick that balances the sweetness. The crinkly crust, created by rolling the dough in powdered sugar, gives these cookies an inviting and festive look. This recipe is simple enough for novice bakers and impressive enough to wow seasoned cookie enthusiasts. Trust us, once you take a bite, you’ll find it hard to stop at just one!

Ingredients

• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 4 ounces unsweetened chocolate, melted and cooled
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 8 ounces mini peppermint patty bites, unwrapped (1 bag)
• ½ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

How To Make Peppermint Patty Stuffed Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you dive into making these cookies, gather all your ingredients. Ensure that the unsweetened chocolate is melted and cooled, which will help in achieving the perfect cookie dough consistency.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Start by combining the vegetable oil, melted chocolate, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl. Use a whisk to ensure everything blends seamlessly together. Next, add in the vanilla extract and the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step binds all the wet ingredients together, creating a luscious batter.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to be soft and slightly sticky.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling the dough will make it easier to handle and will help the cookies maintain their shape while baking.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven

While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.

Step 6: Stuff the Cookies

Once the dough is chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form a ball of dough about the size of a golf ball. Flatten it slightly in your palm and place a mini peppermint patty in the center. Wrap the dough around the candy, ensuring it’s fully enclosed, and roll it back into a ball.

Step 7: Roll in Powdered Sugar

Roll each cookie dough ball in powdered sugar until it’s generously coated. This not only adds sweetness but gives the cookies their signature crinkly appearance.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should look crinkled on top but slightly underbaked in the middle, allowing them to stay soft and chewy once cooled.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to set up a bit before indulging.

Expert Tips

• Make sure to let the chocolate cool completely after melting before mixing it with the other ingredients to avoid cooking the eggs.
• For an extra boost of peppermint flavor, consider adding a few drops of peppermint extract to the dough.
• Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving the desired texture and appearance of the cookies.
• If you can’t find mini peppermint patties, regular-sized ones cut in half also work perfectly!

Variations and Customizations

• Add crushed candy canes for an extra crunch and festive touch.
• Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
• For a fun twist, drizzle white chocolate over the cooled cookies for an added visual appeal.
• Try using different chocolate candies in the center, like caramel or chocolate-covered mint creams, for a new flavor experience.

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and they will stay good for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.

FAQ

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to develop even more.

What can I use instead of vegetable oil?

If you prefer, you can substitute the vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or unsalted butter for a richer flavor.

How can I tell when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies should look slightly cracked on top and appear set around the edges, while the center will still look soft. They will continue to firm up after cooling.

Can I use regular-sized peppermint patties instead?

Yes! If you use regular-sized peppermint patties, simply cut them in half before stuffing them inside the cookie dough. Just be aware that you might need to adjust the baking time slightly depending on your oven.

Conclusion

These Peppermint Patty Stuffed Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint in every bite. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies will surely impress your family and friends. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. So grab your apron, gather your loved ones, and let’s bake some joy! Enjoy every crinkle and creamy bite of these festive cookies this season!