Imagine sinking your teeth into a cookie that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the refreshing taste of peppermint. Peppermint Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookie Sticks are not just cookies; they are a delightful treat that brightens up any occasion, especially during the festive season. These cookie sticks present an exciting twist on traditional cookies, providing a fun and unique way to enjoy the classic flavors you love. Perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings, serving as a sweet gift, or enjoying during cozy evenings at home, these cookies offer both great taste and appealing presentation.
Why We Love This Peppermint Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookie Sticks Recipe
There’s something undeniably appealing about the combination of chocolate and peppermint. The coolness of peppermint complements the sweetness of the chocolate, creating a well-rounded flavor that hits all the right notes. What makes these cookie sticks even more enjoyable is their shape. Their slender, stick-like form makes them easy to grab, dip, and nibble, satisfying your sweet tooth in a fun way. You can personalize them by adding crushed peppermint candy canes on top, enhancing both the visual appeal and crunch. Plus, these cookie sticks are incredibly easy to make, ensuring you can whip them up without a hassle.
Ingredients for Peppermint Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookie Sticks
To create your batch of Peppermint Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookie Sticks, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- Crushed peppermint candy canes (optional topping)
With these simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to baking delicious cookies that will impress your family and friends.
How to Make Peppermint Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookie Sticks Directions
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookie Sticks. This recipe will guide you through, ensuring you achieve cookies that are both tasty and beautifully presented.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is crucial to achieving that perfect cookie texture with slightly crispy edges.
- In a medium bowl, combine 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together and set them aside for now.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of packed brown sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to blend until smooth and fluffy, ensuring the sugars and butter are well combined.
- Once the mixture is light and creamy, add in 2 large eggs, beating them in one at a time. This method helps incorporate air into the dough, resulting in a fluffy cookie.
- Stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract. These extracts will provide that beloved aromatic touch that elevates your cookies.
- Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until the dough just comes together. Avoid over-mixing, as this can affect the texture of your cookies.
- Now, gently fold in 2 cups of chocolate chips with a spatula. The chocolate chips will provide gooey pops of sweetness in every bite.
- Once your dough is ready, shape it into sticks. Aim for a thickness of about half an inch to ensure even baking. Place the sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each to allow for spreading.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when the edges turn slightly golden.
- After baking, allow your cookie sticks to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period prevents them from breaking and ensures they maintain their shape.
- For an extra festive touch, while the cookie sticks are still warm, sprinkle crushed peppermint candy canes on top. This optional step enhances the visual aesthetic and adds a delightful crunch.
How to Serve Peppermint Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookie Sticks
Serving these Peppermint Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookie Sticks is part of the fun! Here are some creative ideas to consider:
- Holiday Platters: Arrange the cookie sticks on a festive platter as part of your holiday dessert table. Their striking colors and unique shape will catch everyone’s attention.
- Dipping Delight: Serve your cookie sticks with a side of warm melted chocolate or peppermint-flavored icing for dipping. This interactive element will make them even more enjoyable!
- Gift Giving: Package several cookie sticks in decorative cellophane bags and tie them with a ribbon. These make thoughtful gifts for friends, family, or colleagues during the holiday season.
- Pair with Drinks: Consider pairing these cookies with a warm beverage, such as cocoa or even a peppermint-flavored tea. The combination will create a cozy experience, perfect for chilly evenings.
Expert Tips: Peppermint Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookie Sticks
To get the best results from your baking experience, consider these expert tips:
- Measure Carefully: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Use a kitchen scale for precision to avoid common mishaps.
- Chill the Dough: If you find that your dough is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will make it easier to shape your cookie sticks.
- Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Every oven is different, so check your cookie sticks a minute or so before the minimum baking time to prevent overbaking.
- Experiment with Textures: For a different texture, try using a mix of semi-sweet and dark chocolate chips or incorporate chunks of white chocolate for contrast.
How to Store Peppermint Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookie Sticks
Once you’ve baked and enjoyed these delightful cookie sticks, you’ll want to know how to store them properly:
- Room Temperature: Place your cookie sticks in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week, provided you keep them sealed.
- Freezing: For longer storage, consider freezing the cookie sticks. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container with layers of parchment paper between them. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
- Reheating: If you prefer warmed cookies, you can reheat your frozen or room-temperature cookie sticks in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
Variations of Peppermint Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookie Sticks
Feel free to experiment with your Peppermint Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookie Sticks! Here are some variations to try:
- Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to introduce a crunchy texture alongside the chocolate chips.
- Different Extracts: Swap out peppermint extract for almond or orange extract for a unique flavor profile while keeping that sweet and chocolatey element.
- Colorful Sprinkles: Instead of crushed peppermint candy canes, top your cookie sticks with festive holiday sprinkles for a pop of color.
FAQ about Peppermint Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookie Sticks
Can I make Peppermint Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookie Sticks without peppermint extract?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of peppermint, you can omit the peppermint extract altogether or replace it with another flavor extract that you enjoy, like almond or vanilla.
How do I know when the cookie sticks are done baking?
The cookie sticks are ready when their edges turn a light golden brown. They may look slightly underbaked in the center, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Can these cookie sticks be made gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute regular all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. This modification will allow you to enjoy the same great cookie sticks without gluten.
Can I customize the chocolate chips?
Definitely! You can use milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips. Mixing different types can create an interesting flavor profile in your cookie sticks.
Peppermint Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookie Sticks
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
Mix-ins
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- Crushed peppermint candy canes (optional topping)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisk and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla and peppermint extracts.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips with a spatula.
- Shape the dough into sticks about half an inch thick and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes until edges are slightly golden.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- While still warm, sprinkle crushed peppermint candy canes on top if desired.
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