Discover the festive delight of Peppermint Red Velvet Blossoms – Recipe perfect for holiday treats. This vibrant and luscious cookie recipe blends the rich cocoa flavor of red velvet with a refreshing peppermint kick, creating a deliciously irresistible treat that’s both easy to make and sure to impress. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, gifting to friends, or simply indulging yourself, this recipe brings joy to every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Holiday Flavors: The combination of classic red velvet and peppermint creates a uniquely festive taste that stands out.
- Quick and Easy: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have cookies ready in no time.
- Perfect Texture: Soft, chewy centers with slightly crisp edges make these blossoms incredibly satisfying.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The bright red cookies contrasted with a white candy center add a cheerful touch to any dessert table.
- Great for Gifting: These cookies wrap beautifully and make a thoughtful, homemade gift for the season.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Peppermint Red Velvet Blossoms – Recipe plays a key role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the cocoa powder that defines red velvet to the peppermint candies that bring seasonal cheer, every component is essential but simple.
- All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the cookie dough and provides structure.
- Cocoa Powder: Delivers the rich chocolate flavor characteristic of red velvet treats.
- Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These leavening agents ensure the cookies rise perfectly with a light texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.
- Sugar: Sweetens the cookies just right, balancing the cocoa and peppermint.
- Egg: Binds the dough and contributes to moisture and structure.
- Buttermilk: Enhances moisture and helps intensify the red velvet tang.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
- Red Food Coloring: Gives the signature vibrant red hue to the cookies.
- Crushed Peppermint Candies or Peppermint Hershey’s Kisses: The star topping that brings festive peppermint flavor.
Variations for Peppermint Red Velvet Blossoms – Recipe
This recipe lends itself to creative twists and personal touches, perfect for adjusting to your taste preferences or dietary needs without losing its festive charm.
- Dairy-Free Version: Substitute butter and buttermilk with plant-based alternatives to accommodate lactose intolerance.
- Chocolate Peppermint Kick: Add extra cocoa powder or mini chocolate chips to intensify the chocolate flavor.
- Spicy Peppermint: Stir in a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne for a surprising warm contrast.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to keep the cookies safe for gluten-sensitive friends.
- Different Peppermint Toppings: Swap the peppermint kisses for crushed candy canes or mint chocolate buttons.
How to Make Peppermint Red Velvet Blossoms – Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients, pre-measure the dry and wet components separately, and set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt to ensure an even texture.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a mixer, beat the unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy, which takes about 2-3 minutes—this creates the perfect base for a tender cookie.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in the egg, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and red food coloring slowly until fully combined and smooth, creating that lovely red velvet batter.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mix, stirring just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
Step 6: Scoop Cookies
Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to place even dollops of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
Step 7: Top with Peppermint Candies
Press a peppermint Hershey’s Kiss or a small piece of crushed candy cane into the center of each cookie before baking.
Step 8: Bake
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set but centers remain soft; the peppermint candy will slightly melt, forming a delightful blossom.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips for Making Peppermint Red Velvet Blossoms – Recipe
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerate your dough for 15 minutes prior to baking to prevent spreading and maintain cookie shape.
- Use Quality Cocoa: Opt for Dutch-processed cocoa powder for the smoothest flavor and deepest red color.
- Soft But Firm Batter: Don’t overmix once dry ingredients are added to keep the cookies tender.
- Space Cookies Well: Leave enough room on the baking sheet, as the dough will spread slightly during baking.
- Don’t Skip the Parchment Paper: This ensures easy removal and helps cookies bake evenly.
How to Serve Peppermint Red Velvet Blossoms – Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or crushed peppermint candies over the cooled cookies for an extra festive sparkle and added texture contrast.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa or peppermint-infused coffee to complement the flavors and create a cozy treat experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the cookies on a holiday-themed platter with sprigs of fresh holly or pine for a stunning seasonal display; or wrap them in cellophane with a red ribbon to give as charming edible gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Peppermint Red Velvet Blossoms in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to retain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
Freeze the unbaked dough in scooped portions on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag; bake straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
Warm leftover cookies in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes to revive their softness and melt the peppermint center slightly before serving.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with a cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes as a substitute.
Are these cookies suitable for kids?
Absolutely! These sweet and colorful cookies are family-friendly and perfect for holiday baking activities with children.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
With a few swaps like plant-based butter, flax eggs, and non-dairy milk, you can adapt this recipe to fit a vegan diet.
What if I don’t have red food coloring?
You can omit the coloring, but the cookies will lose their classic red velvet look; natural alternatives like beet juice can provide some color but may alter taste.
How do I prevent the peppermint candy from sticking to the baking sheet?
Placing the candies on parchment paper or silicone mats prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of finished cookies.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got the Peppermint Red Velvet Blossoms – Recipe in your baking arsenal, you’re ready to bring a burst of festive cheer to your holiday table. This deliciously easy recipe combines beloved flavors and beautiful presentation, making it perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying on your own. So grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a batch of unforgettable cookies that everyone will adore!