Peppermint Cookies

December 19, 2009 at 1:54 pm (Uncategorized) (Chocolate, Cookie, Dessert)

Again these are cookies from last year, but they were a hit! It was hard crushing the candy canes, but other than that they were a nice easy cookie.

Peppermint Chocolate Cookies
Rachael Ray

Ingredients
1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 egg
1 1/2 cups flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 pinch salt
Two 3.5-ounce bars dark chocolate, finely chopped (I used dark chocolate chips instead)
1/2 teaspoon vegetable oil
2/3 cup finely crushed peppermint candy canes or candies

Directions

1. Using an electric mixer, beat the butter until soft. Turn the mixer to low and gradually add the powered sugar. Once creamy, beat in the egg.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa, and salt.
3. With the mixer on low, add the flour mixture one third at a time, beating until smooth.
4. Using parchment paper or silicone baking sheets, put the dough onto the baking sheet. Using your hands, shape the dough into a 12 inch long round log. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and roll into a smooth and even log. Seal the ends and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Reshape the cylinder and refrigerate for 30 more minutes.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line two cookie sheets with silicone baking sheets or parchment paper.
6. Unwrap the dough. Using a sharp knife, slice the dough into 1/3 inch rounds. Place these rounds 1 inch apart on the cookie sheets.
7. Bake until firm, 18 to 20 minutes.
8. Remove the cookies from the cookie sheet, and cool completely.
9. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine two-thirds of the dark chocolate with the oil. Microwave for 30 seconds then stir until smooth. If needed, heat at 10-second intervals. Stir in the remaining chocolate until smooth.
10. Using a spoon, spread a scant teaspoon of melted chocolate on top of each cookie. Sprinkle the peppermints on top and press in, gently. Let stand until set, about 2 to 3 hours.
11. Package up and enjoy!

I would do these again, if I had the motivation to bake this year. They were really yummy. Just keep an eye on them in the oven, they go from done to burnt pretty easily, and it is hard to see.