Peppermint Red Velvet Blossom Cookies are the perfect combination of rich chocolate, creamy butter, and the refreshing taste of mint. These festive cookies stand out with their deep red hue and the delightful surprise of a peppermint candy kiss in the center. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to impress. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and vibrant colors, they bring a touch of cheer to any gathering. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make!
Why You Will Love Peppermint Red Velvet Blossom Cookies
These Peppermint Red Velvet Blossom Cookies are more than just a treat—they’re an experience! The soft, pillowy texture, the balance of chocolate and mint, and the fun candy kiss topping make these cookies a true crowd-pleaser. Here’s why you’ll love them:
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe comes together in no time.
- Perfect for Holidays: The red velvet color and peppermint flavor give them a festive flair, ideal for Christmas, Valentine’s Day, or any special occasion.
- Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: The cookies are soft, chewy, and buttery, with just the right amount of sweetness.
- Peppermint Candy Kisses: A delightful peppermint kiss in the center adds the perfect finishing touch.
Ready to bake these sweet treats? Let’s dive into how to make Peppermint Red Velvet Blossom Cookies!
Ingredients Notes
Dry Ingredients
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 1/4 cups – provides structure to the cookies.
- Cocoa Powder: 1/4 cup, unsweetened – adds a rich chocolate flavor.
- Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon – helps the cookies rise.
- Baking Soda: 1/2 teaspoon – ensures a soft texture.
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon – enhances the flavors.
Wet Ingredients
- Butter: 1/2 cup, unsalted, softened – for a rich, buttery flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: 3/4 cup – sweetens the dough.
- Egg: 1 large – binds the ingredients together.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – complements the chocolate and peppermint flavors.
- Buttermilk: 1 tablespoon – adds moisture and a slight tang.
- Red Food Coloring: 1 tablespoon – gives the cookies their signature festive hue.
Toppings
- Peppermint Candy Kisses: 18 – the perfect minty center.
- Candy Canes or Peppermint Candies: Crushed – for a festive crunch.
How to Make Peppermint Red Velvet Blossom Cookies
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 2 baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Hand or stand mixer
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure even baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set the mixture aside for now.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Beat them on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
Add the egg, vanilla extract, buttermilk, and red food coloring to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until fully incorporated, ensuring the red color is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
Step 6: Scoop and Roll the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, scoop out dough and roll it into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Roll each ball in crushed candy canes or peppermint candies for an extra festive crunch. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until they have spread slightly and are just set. Keep an eye on them—overbaking can lead to a firmer texture, but you want them to stay soft and chewy.
Step 8: Add the Peppermint Candy Kisses
As soon as you remove the cookies from the oven, gently press a peppermint candy kiss into the center of each cookie. The warmth of the cookie will help the kiss stick.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Tips
- Serve these Peppermint Red Velvet Blossom Cookies at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
- Pair them with a glass of milk, hot chocolate, or a cup of coffee for the perfect sweet treat.
- These cookies make a fantastic addition to holiday cookie trays or gift baskets, adding both color and flavor to your festive spread.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They will stay soft and chewy for several days.
- Freezing: To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
Variations
- Chocolate Chips: Add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the dough for an extra chocolatey bite.
- Mint Extract: If you love a stronger peppermint flavor, substitute 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract with 1/2 teaspoon of mint extract.
- Different Toppings: Instead of candy canes, try using crushed peppermint bark, white chocolate chips, or even crushed gingerbread cookies for a twist.
Helpful Notes
- Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. If it’s too cold, it will be harder to cream with the sugar, and if it’s too melted, your dough may be too runny.
- Red Food Coloring: The amount of food coloring needed will depend on the type of red food coloring you use. Gel food coloring gives a vibrant hue without altering the dough’s consistency.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Bobby Flay’s Tip: When adding candy toppings to cookies, don’t press them in too hard right after baking. Instead, gently place them on top to maintain the structural integrity of the candy.
- Ina Garten’s Tip: For perfectly round cookies, use a small ice cream scoop. It ensures even-sized dough balls, making the cookies bake more uniformly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of food coloring?
Yes! You can use gel food coloring or liquid food coloring, but gel coloring often gives a deeper, richer color without affecting the cookie dough texture.
2. Can I substitute peppermint candy kisses with other types of candy?
Definitely! If you prefer something less minty, you can use milk or dark chocolate kisses, caramel-filled chocolates, or even a small piece of toffee or white chocolate.
3. How can I make these cookies ahead of time?
You can prepare the dough and freeze it for up to 3 months before baking. Alternatively, you can bake the cookies, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container.
4. Can I add more peppermint flavor to the cookies?
Yes! To enhance the peppermint flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough in addition to the peppermint kisses.
5. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can try using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for the all-purpose flour. However, keep in mind that the texture and structure may vary.
Peppermint Red Velvet Blossom Cookies are a delightful treat that will add a touch of festivity to any occasion. The perfect combination of rich chocolate and refreshing mint makes them irresistible. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just for fun, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to the table. Enjoy!
