As I unwrapped the first candy cane of the season, a rush of nostalgia hit me. The sweet, minty aroma reminded me of my grandmother’s kitchen filled with holiday magic and laughter. Now, I get to recreate that festive joy with these delightful Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies. With a crisp exterior and a creamy peppermint filling, this recipe captures all the holiday cheer you could hope for. Not only are these cookies visually stunning on any dessert platter, but they’re also a fun project to tackle over the weekend, keeping your kitchen filled with sweet scents. Perfect for gatherings, these cookies can easily be made ahead and filled just before serving, letting you enjoy more precious moments with loved ones. Ready to treat your family to something special this Christmas? Let’s dive into this unique cookie-making adventure!
Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?
Uniquely Festive: These Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies are a creative twist on classic holiday flavors, offering a perfect blend of chocolate and peppermint that instantly uplifts the holiday spirit.
Visual Appeal: Each cookie resembles a charming log, making them a standout centerpiece on any dessert table that guests will rave about.
Family Fun: Rolling and filling these cookies is an enjoyable activity that the whole family can partake in, creating cherished memories as you bake together.
Make Ahead Magic: Prepare these cookies in advance, and fill them just before serving for ultimate freshness, which gives you more time to savor the celebration.
Versatile Delight: Transform them into sandwich cookies or experiment with fillings and toppings, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. For more creative holiday treats, consider our delicious Fourth July Chocolate or try the festive Patriotic Thumbprint Cookies.
Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- Unsalted butter – Provides richness and moisture; substitute with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Large egg white – Serves as a binder, contributing to the structure; a flax egg can replace it for a vegan version.
- Peppermint extract – Adds a refreshing mint flavor; vanilla extract can be used as an alternative if peppermint is unavailable.
- Plain (all-purpose) flour – Gives the cookies structure and texture; can be replaced with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Dutch process cocoa – Imparts a deep chocolate flavor; regular unsweetened cocoa can serve as a substitute.
- Icing (powdered) sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a thick filling; granulated sugar can also be blended into a powder.
For the Minty Filling
- Unsalted butter (for filling) – Softened to mix easily; use coconut cream for a dairy-free filling.
- Liquid glucose/light corn syrup – Helps maintain moisture in the filling; maple syrup can be a substitute.
- Salt – Enhances sweetness and flavor balance.
For Coating and Garnishing
- Dark chocolate – Used for sealing and dipping; milk chocolate or white chocolate can provide different flavors.
- Candy canes – Crushed for garnish and added texture; alternatives could include crushed cookies or nuts.
For Molding
- Paper straws – Serve as a mold for the cookie tubes; silicone molds can be used if preferred.
These Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies are sure to bring joy and warmth to your holiday gatherings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, one large egg white, and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract until well blended. Sift in 1 ½ cups of plain flour, ½ cup of Dutch process cocoa, and 1 cup of icing sugar, then mix until a cohesive dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but firm enough to hold its shape.
Step 2: Cut and Shape Cookies
Divide the dough into three equal pieces and place each on a sheet of baking paper. Roll each piece between the paper to about ¼ inch thickness and cut into squares, aiming for 4-inch wide pieces. Position a paper straw at one edge, tightly roll the dough around it, and chill the rolls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes until firm.
Step 3: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once chilled, carefully place the cookie rolls on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers are slightly soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes before gently removing the straws to retain the hollow shape.
Step 4: Fill and Dip
While the cookies cool, prepare the peppermint filling by mixing ¼ cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of icing sugar, 2 tablespoons of liquid glucose, a pinch of salt, and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract until smooth. Once cookies are completely cool, fill each tube generously with peppermint filling, dip the ends in melted dark chocolate, and promptly sprinkle with crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the first two steps of the recipe, and once you’ve shaped the rolls, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. For optimal flavor, consider making the peppermint filling up to 3 days ahead, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy your cookies, just bake as directed, fill with the prepared frosting, dip in chocolate, and sprinkle with crushed candy canes for a delightful finish. This way, your festive treat will be just as delicious while giving you more time to enjoy the celebrations!
What to Serve with Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies
Pair these festive delights with complementary flavors that will elevate your holiday gathering.
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Hot Cocoa: Cozy up a cup of rich hot cocoa to balance the minty sweetness; the warm chocolate enhances every bite.
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Spiced Chai Latte: The creamy spices of chai beautifully contrast the peppermint, making for a delightful, aromatic pairing that warms the heart.
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Classic Espresso: A robust espresso cuts through the sweetness of the cookies, creating a sophisticated touch to your holiday platter.
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Christmas Fruit Salad: Refreshing fruit salad with citrus and berries provides a light and fruity counterpoint to the rich, creamy cookies.
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Chewy Ginger Snaps: Pairing these cookies with ginger snaps intensifies the festive flavors, adding warmth through the zingy spice of ginger.
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Winter Cheeseboard: A selection of creamy cheeses paired with dried fruits and nuts creates a savory balance, rounding out your dessert offerings beautifully.
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Dessert Wines: Consider a glass of sweet dessert wine, such as Moscato or Port, that complements the chocolate and peppermint notes in each cookie.
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Pecan Pie Bars: These indulgent bars bring a nutty crunch that contrasts the smooth filling of the cookies, offering delightful textural variety.
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Christmas Shortbread: Buttery, crumbly shortbread cookies enhance the holiday vibe, appealing to the sweet tooth without overwhelming the palate.
Expert Tips for Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies
- Dough Consistency: Make sure your dough is slightly sticky but firm enough to hold its shape; too dry can lead to crumbling.
- Chill Time: Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s crucial for keeping the cookies’ shape and ensuring they’re easy to roll.
- Remove Straws Gently: Let the cookies cool completely before removing the straws to prevent the cookie tubes from collapsing.
- Avoid Melting Filling: Ensure cookies are cool before filling; warm cookies can melt the peppermint filling, making a gooey mess.
- Storage Tips: Store baked cookies in an airtight container without filling for optimal freshness, filling just before serving.
Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies Variations
Feel free to make these festive cookies your own by exploring delicious variations and substitutions!
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Sandwich Cookies: Cut the dough into rounds, fill with peppermint cream, and dip half in chocolate for a delightful twist.
Transforming these cookies into sandwich style adds an extra layer of fun. It’s a great way to share joy with family and friends! -
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut oil and coconut cream instead of butter and traditional filling for all dairy-free goodness.
This version keeps the creamy texture while ensuring no one misses out on the rich flavors. -
Gluten-Free Swap: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delightful option that everyone can enjoy.
Your gluten-free friends will appreciate the thoughtful touch, and they taste just as wonderful! -
Flavor Boost: Substitute peppermint extract with vanilla or almond extract for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
Changing the extract can offer a refreshing twist while maintaining that sweet, minty essence. -
Candy Coating: Dip cookies in white chocolate or a blend of milk and dark chocolate for a unique flavor contrast.
The visual appeal and varied sweetness can really elevate your festive cookie platters! -
Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the filling for a surprising spicy twist.
Unexpected heat will intrigue your taste buds, making these cookies a fun talking point at parties! -
Crunchy Texture: Incorporate crushed nuts or crispy rice cereal into the filling for an enjoyable crunch.
This addition will provide a delightful contrast to the smooth, creamy filling and enrich your cookie experience! -
Festive Sprinkles: Top the finished cookies with colorful holiday-themed sprinkles for added festive cheer.
The sprinkles not only enhance visual appeal but also create an explosion of fun in each bite!
For more delightful holiday treats, don’t miss trying our Chocolate Orange Posset or the scrumptious Chocolate Lava Brownie for irresistible flavors!
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies
Room Temperature: Store unfilled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their crisp texture.
Fridge: If filled, keep the peppermint chocolate roll cookies in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to prevent the filling from melting.
Freezer: Freeze unfilled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before filling and serving.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat these cookies; enjoy them chilled or at room temperature to savor the delightful peppermint flavor!
Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right peppermint extract?
When choosing peppermint extract, look for a pure extract with no artificial flavors or colors. High-quality extracts usually have a more robust flavor and provide that necessary holiday zest. If you can’t find peppermint extract, vanilla extract is a great alternative, though it will alter the traditional taste slightly.
What’s the best way to store my cookies?
For optimal storage, keep unfilled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If your cookies are already filled, store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This way, the filling stays fresh and doesn’t melt into a gooey mess. Enjoy the delightful contrast of textures!
Can I freeze Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze unfilled cookies, lay them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, and they can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature before generously filling them with the peppermint cream. This method preserves their texture wonderfully.
What if my dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough is too sticky to handle, just sprinkle a little more flour onto your work surface while rolling it out. It’s all about balance! Aim for a dough that’s slightly tacky but holds its shape without falling apart. Gentle handling during the rolling process is key to maintaining their form.
Are there any dietary considerations with these cookies?
Yes! For a dairy-free option, substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or margarine and use coconut cream for the filling. Additionally, a flax egg can replace the egg white for a vegan twist. Always check your chocolate and candy canes for any allergens if you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, ensuring a worry-free festive celebration!
Delicious Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies for Holiday Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted unsalted butter, egg white, and peppermint extract until well blended. Sift in plain flour, Dutch process cocoa, and icing sugar, then mix until a cohesive dough forms.
- Divide the dough into three pieces and roll each to ¼ inch thickness on baking paper, cut into squares. Roll tightly around a paper straw, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake chilled cookie rolls on a lined baking sheet for 10 minutes. Cool on baking sheet before removing straws.
- Mix softened unsalted butter, icing sugar, liquid glucose, salt, and peppermint extract until smooth. Fill cookies, dip ends in melted dark chocolate, and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.