There's something about the winter season that invites the joy of baking-especially when the scent of chocolate and peppermint fills the air. I recently found myself in the kitchen, wrapped in a cozy blanket with a cup of hot cocoa, when the urge to create something festive struck me. That's when I decided to whip up a batch of Chewy Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms topped with those iconic Candy Cane Hershey Kisses.

These cookies are not just your average holiday treat; they combine fudgy, rich chocolate with a delightful peppermint twist, making them an instant favorite at any gathering. The moment you bite into one, you're greeted by a soft, chewy texture that's perfectly complemented by the cool burst of mint from the Kisses. Whether you're nibbling them by the fireplace or sharing them at a cookie exchange, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around.

Ready to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of Christmas? Let's get started on crafting these delightful cookies that are perfect for both seasoned bakers and kitchen novices alike!

Why are Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms a must-bake?

Festive Flavor Explosion: These cookies are a holiday dream, blending rich chocolate with refreshing peppermint for a taste that screams Christmas.

Chewy Perfection: Experience a wonderfully chewy texture that will leave you craving more after each bite.

Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this festive treat in no time.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for cookie exchanges or holiday gatherings, your friends and family will rave about these delights.

Customizable Options: Feel free to tweak the recipe! Substitute different flavored Kisses for a unique twist. Want to explore more? Check out my guide on holiday baking essentials for all the tips you need!

Indulge in a batch of these delectable treats and enjoy a cozy Christmas vibe!

Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Ingredients

For the Cookies
• All-Purpose Flour - Provides structure; Tip: Measure properly to avoid excess flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling off.
• Cocoa Powder (Dutch Process) - Adds rich chocolate flavor; Note: Avoid regular cocoa powder as it may affect the leavening with baking soda.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda - Leavening agents for rise; Essential for achieving that sought-after chewy texture.
• Salt - Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
• Unsalted Butter - Adds richness and moisture; Ensure it's softened for easy creaming.
• Light Brown Sugar - Contributes moisture and a hint of molasses flavor.
• Granulated Sugar - Sweetens while enhancing cookie crispness; Some is used for rolling the dough.
• Egg Yolks - Provides moisture and structure, helping cookies maintain shape.
• Vanilla Extract - Infuses aromatic depth and enhances flavor.
• Candy Cane Hershey Kisses - The festive centerpiece, bringing a burst of peppermint flavor; Freeze before using to keep their shape during baking.
• Additional Granulated Sugar - Used for rolling the dough balls for a sweet touch before baking.

Get ready to dive into the joy of baking these Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms that are sure to brighten your holiday season!

How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms

Prepare Kisses: Unwrap 34 Candy Cane Hershey Kisses and freeze them for about 30 minutes. This keeps their shape perfect when baked!
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line three baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup later.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This creates the foundation for your cookies.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter with light brown sugar and granulated sugar until you achieve a creamy texture.
Add Wet Ingredients: Incorporate the egg yolks and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until everything is light and fluffy-this adds moisture and depth!
Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want it chewy!
Form Cookies: Scoop the dough into 34 equal portions, roll each into a ball, and then roll them in additional granulated sugar for a little extra sweetness.
Arrange and Bake: Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheets, keeping 2 inches apart. Bake for 7-8 minutes, adjusting to 7 minutes if you prefer a chewier cookie!
Add Kisses: Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, press a frozen Candy Cane Kiss into the center of each warm cookie. It will melt slightly, creating a cozy minty crown!
Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets to set the Kisses before transferring them to a wire rack.

Optional: Serve them warm with a drizzle of chocolate on top for an extra festive touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms?

The holiday treat experience is incomplete without delightful accompaniments that enhance their festive charm.

Glass of Cold Milk: The classic duo! A crisp, cold glass complements the cookies' rich chocolate and mintiness perfectly.
Hot Cocoa: Sipping on warm cocoa while enjoying these cookies creates a cozy winter atmosphere that you won't want to miss.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy vanilla flavor works wonderfully against the chocolatey and minty notes of the cookies, creating a delicious dessert combo.
Peppermint Bark: Elevate the holiday spirit with this chocolatey, crispy treat that mirrors the peppermint notes of your blossoms, perfect for sharing.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can balance the sweetness and chocolate richness, adding a fresh crunch to your dessert table.
Coffee or Espresso: Pairing a freshly brewed cup with these cookies brings out the deep flavors while providing a satisfying pick-me-up.
Christmas Punch: A festive beverage loaded with spices and citrus will brighten the cookie experience, making any gathering feel even more joyous.
Gingerbread Cookies: For those who love all things holiday, serving these alongside your Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms creates the ultimate festive platter.
Chocolate Fondue: Dunking bits of your cookies into warm, gooey chocolate will make for a fun, interactive dessert experience at any gathering!
Cranberry Smoothie: A vibrant smoothie packed with tart flavors offers a light complement to the sweet, rich petals of chocolate in each bite.

Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions to make this recipe your own!

Milk Chocolate: Swap Candy Cane Kisses for classic milk chocolate Kisses for a sweeter profile that everyone will love.
Dark Chocolate: Opt for dark chocolate Kisses to create a rich flavor that perfectly balances the peppermint.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies accessible without sacrificing taste.
Mint Extract: Enhance the minty flavor by adding a scant ¼ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough for an extra punch.
Almond Joy: Replace the Kisses with Almond Joy or other coconut-filled chocolates for a tropical twist that surprises and delights.
Spicy Touch: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a warm, spicy kick that complements the mint.
Nuts Galore: Fold in mini chocolate chips or chopped pecans for added texture and flavor, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Dairy-Free: Substitute vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate for a plant-based option that's equally delicious.

Tips for the Best Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms

Accurate Measurements: Always measure flour correctly by spooning it into the cup and leveling it off to prevent dense cookies.
Chill the Kisses: Freezing the Candy Cane Hershey Kisses is essential; this helps them maintain their shape during baking and enhances the cookie's appearance.
Do Not Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix until just combined to preserve that chewy texture-overmixing can lead to tough cookies!
Cool Cookies Completely: Allow cookies to sit on the baking sheets until completely cool. This ensures the Kisses set perfectly and maintain their shape.
Flavor Variety: Feel free to experiment with different flavors of Kisses for your Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms, like milk chocolate for a sweeter touch!

Storage Tips for Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent them from becoming dry.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies; however, be sure they are well-wrapped to avoid absorbing any odors-consume within a week for best results.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a single layer in airtight containers for up to 2 weeks. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm treat.

Reheating: To restore freshness, reheat individual cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds-watch closely to avoid melting the Kisses too much. Enjoy your Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms!

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms are perfect for busy holiday bakers looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the ingredients and refrigerate the dough. To maintain the quality, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, preventing it from drying out. When you're ready to bake, scoop the chilled dough into balls and roll in granulated sugar before placing them on baking sheets. Bake them as directed, and you'll have fresh, warm cookies that are just as delightful as if they had just been made. The Candy Cane Kisses can also be prepped ahead-just freeze them until you're set to bake!

Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms Recipe FAQs

What type of cocoa powder should I use for the best flavor?
I recommend using Dutch process cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor in your Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms. Regular cocoa powder can alter the cookie's acidity levels, affecting the rise and texture, so stick with Dutch processed for the best results.

How should I store my Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you find you have leftovers after the holidays, you can also refrigerate them wrapped tightly for up to a week, or freeze them in a single layer. Just make sure they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn!

Can I freeze Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms?
Absolutely! For freezing, place your baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for about an hour to pre-freeze them. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they can stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. To enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or microwave briefly for a warm treat.

What should I do if my cookies are too flat?
If your Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms spread too much while baking, check your butter. If it was too melted or not softened enough during the creaming process, it might have impacted the structure. Also, ensure your flour measurements are accurate! The best method is spooning the flour into your measuring cup and leveling it off for precise measurement.

Are there any dietary considerations for Chocolate Peppermint Blossoms?
If you're baking for someone with dietary restrictions, check their needs. For gluten-free alternatives, you can use a one-to-one gluten-free all-purpose flour. Also, remember that the Candy Cane Hershey Kisses contain dairy and gluten, so look for suitable alternatives like peppermint-flavored chocolate that adheres to dietary needs.

Can I substitute the Candy Cane Hershey Kisses with another type?
Very! Feel free to experiment with different flavors of Kisses, such as milk chocolate or dark chocolate. You could also use flavored Kisses, like cookies and cream, for fun variations. Just be mindful of the melting point, as some chocolates may require adjustments to stay intact during baking.