Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies

Welcome to Day 4 of "12 Days of Vegan Christmas Cookies!" Enter: Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies. These cookies are a festive brownie-cookie hybrid. Infused with peppermint flavor and rolled/baked in powdered sugar, these cookies are sure to be an absolute crowd pleaser.

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Ingredients in Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies

Wet Ingredients

• Vegan Butter (½ cup): Vegan butter provides the necessary fat content for the cookies, contributing to their texture and flavor. It also helps create a tender crumb and richness in the final product.
• Light Brown Sugar (1 cup): Brown sugar adds moisture and a subtle molasses flavor to the cookies. It contributes to the chewiness and helps create a soft texture in the crinkle cookies.
• Peppermint Extract (2 tsp): Peppermint extract infuses the cookies with a refreshing and minty flavor, creating a delightful combination with the rich chocolate. The amount can be adjusted based on personal preference for the intensity of peppermint flavor.
• Nondairy Milk (1 tbsp): Nondairy milk adds moisture to the cookie dough, helping bind the ingredients together. It contributes to the tenderness of the cookies and ensures a chewy texture.

Dry Ingredients

• Cornstarch (1 tbsp): Cornstarch is a common ingredient in vegan baking as it helps create a soft and tender texture in cookies. It acts as a thickening agent and enhances the overall crumb structure.
• Baking Powder (1 tsp): Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the cookies rise and become light and fluffy. It contributes to the crinkle effect by causing the cookies to expand during baking.
• Salt (½ tsp): Salt enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies, balancing the sweetness and intensifying the chocolate and peppermint flavors. It also helps strengthen the cookie structure.
• Cocoa Powder (Dutch Processed, ½ cup): Dutch-processed cocoa powder adds a rich and deep chocolate flavor to the cookies. It also contributes to the dark color of the cookies and complements the peppermint extract.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): Flour is the main structure-building ingredient in the cookies. All-purpose flour provides the necessary bulk and thickness, ensuring a soft and chewy texture.
• Granulated Sugar for Rolling (½ cup): Rolling the cookie dough in granulated sugar before baking creates the signature crinkle appearance on the cookies. The sugar on the outside caramelizes, forming a crackled pattern as the cookies bake.
• Powdered Sugar for Rolling (½ cup): Rolling the cookies in powdered sugar adds sweetness and contributes to the crinkle effect. As the cookies bake, the powdered sugar absorbs moisture, creating a distinctive cracked surface.

Steps for Making Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies (with pictures!)

1. Make the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the vegan butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 1 minute. Add in the peppermint extract, nondairy milk, cornstarch, baking powder and salt. Beat again until the ingredients are evenly distributed. Beat in the cocoa powder. Add the flour to the bowl and beat until a thick cookie dough comes together.
2. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge to chill for at least an hour. Cookie dough can be stored this way for up to 48 hours. 
3. Prep Cookie Dough: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Take a heaping tablespoon of cookie dough and roll it into a tight ball between your hands. Roll the ball first in granulated sugar. Once it’s evenly covered, roll the ball in the powdered sugar. Place the coated ball of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Continue until the baking sheet is full, leaving at least 2 inches of space between the cookies. Press down lightly on each cookie to flatten slightly. 
4. Bake: Place baking sheet on center rack of preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. 

Tips for Making Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies

1. Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality vegan ingredients, including vegan butter, nondairy milk, and peppermint extract, to ensure the best flavor and texture in your cookies.
2. Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the cookie dough for at least an hour before shaping and rolling. Chilled dough is easier to handle and helps prevent excessive spreading during baking.
3. Proper Peppermint Extract Measurement: Peppermint extract is potent, so measure it accurately. Too much can overwhelm the cookies, while too little may not provide the desired minty flavor. Adjust according to personal preference.
4. Rolling the Cookies: When rolling the cookie dough into balls, ensure they are uniform in size for even baking. Roll each ball first in granulated sugar and then in powdered sugar to achieve the crinkle effect.
5. Dutch-Processed Cocoa Powder: Use Dutch-processed cocoa powder for a richer and more intense chocolate flavor. It also contributes to the dark color of the cookies.
6. Properly Preheated Oven: Preheat your oven to the correct temperature before baking. A well-preheated oven ensures that the cookies set quickly, leading to the desired crinkle effect.
7. Space Cookies on the Baking Sheet: Leave enough space between cookie dough balls on the baking sheet to allow for spreading. This ensures that the cookies bake evenly and don't stick together.
8. Cool on Baking Sheet: Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up without breaking apart.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute peppermint oil for peppermint extract in the recipe?

Yes, you can substitute peppermint oil for peppermint extract, but use it sparingly as it is more concentrated. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste. Be cautious not to use too much, as peppermint oil can be very potent.

Can I use any type of cocoa powder for these cookies?

While any cocoa powder will work, using Dutch-processed cocoa powder is recommended for a richer and more intense chocolate flavor. It also contributes to the dark color of the cookies.

Can I prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight?

Yes, you can refrigerate the cookie dough overnight. Chilling the dough allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to handle when rolling into balls. Just make sure to cover the dough tightly to prevent it from drying out.

My cookie dough is too sticky to roll. What should I do?

If the dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour. Chilled dough is easier to handle. You can also lightly dust your hands with cocoa powder when rolling the dough into balls.

FAQ's Continued

Can I freeze the vegan chocolate peppermint crinkle cookie dough for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for later use. Shape the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a zip-top bag or airtight container. When ready to bake, thaw the dough in the refrigerator before rolling in sugar and baking.

Can I omit the cornstarch in the recipe?

The cornstarch helps create a softer and more tender texture in the cookies. If you don't have cornstarch, you can try substituting it with arrowroot powder or tapioca starch. However, using cornstarch is recommended for the best results.

My cookies spread too much during baking. How can I prevent this?

If your cookies are spreading too much, ensure that the dough is thoroughly chilled before baking. Also, check that your vegan butter is at room temperature, not overly soft. Properly preheating the oven and spacing the cookie dough balls on the baking sheet can also help prevent excessive spreading.

Can I make vegan chocolate peppermint crinkle cookies without rolling them in sugar?

Rolling the cookies in both granulated and powdered sugar is essential for the crinkle effect and adds sweetness to the exterior. Omitting this step may result in a different texture and appearance.

How to Serve Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies

Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy these festive treats:

1. Holiday Cookie Display: Create a holiday-themed cookie display by combining the chocolate peppermint crinkle cookies with other vegan cookies or treats. Use seasonal decorations to enhance the festive atmosphere.
2. With Vegan Hot Chocolate: Serve the cookies alongside mugs of vegan hot chocolate. The combination of the rich, chocolatey cookies with a warm and comforting drink is perfect for the winter season.
3. Dipped in Vegan White Chocolate: Dip half of each cookie in melted vegan white chocolate and let it set. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and a beautiful visual contrast. Sprinkle crushed candy canes on the chocolate coating for an extra burst of peppermint flavor.
4. As Ice Cream Sandwiches: Create vegan chocolate peppermint crinkle cookie ice cream sandwiches by sandwiching a scoop of your favorite dairy-free peppermint ice cream between two cookies. Roll the edges in crushed candy canes for an extra festive touch.
5. As Gifts in Mason Jars: Package the cookies in small mason jars, tie a ribbon around the lids, and add a handwritten tag. This makes for a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift during the holiday season.
6. In Individual Gift Bags: Package individual cookies in festive gift bags, and distribute them as party favors or as a sweet gesture to friends and family.
7. With Peppermint Tea or Coffee: Serve the cookies with a side of peppermint tea or coffee. The combination of the chocolatey cookies with the refreshing taste of peppermint creates a delightful pairing.
8. Alongside Vegan Whipped Cream: Serve the cookies with a dollop of vegan whipped cream or coconut whipped cream. This adds a creamy element to balance the rich flavors of the chocolate and peppermint.

How to Store Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and texture of your vegan chocolate peppermint crinkle cookies. Here's how to store them:

1. Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. If you store them while they are still warm, condensation can form, leading to a loss of crispness.
2. Airtight Container: Place the cookies in an airtight container with a tight-sealing lid. This helps to prevent air and moisture from affecting the texture of the cookies.
3. Layering with Parchment Paper: If you need to stack multiple layers of cookies in the container, place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer. This prevents the cookies from sticking together and maintains their appearance.
4. Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the cookies within a few days, storing them at room temperature is generally suitable. Make sure the storage area is cool, dry, and away from direct sunlight.
5. Refrigeration (Optional): If you want to extend the shelf life, especially in warmer climates, you can store the cookies in the refrigerator. Again, use an airtight container to prevent the cookies from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
6. Freezing: To store cookies for a more extended period, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container, placing parchment paper between layers.When ready to enjoy, thaw the cookies at room temperature. If desired, you can refresh them in a preheated oven for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
7. Avoid Mixing with Strongly Flavored Foods: Be cautious about storing cookies near strongly flavored foods in the refrigerator or freezer, as cookies can absorb odors.

Please remember if you make this recipe to snap a pic and share with @censoredbaker on instagram!

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