Name: Delicious Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies for Festive Joy
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Or margarine for dairy-free option); 1 large Egg White (Or aquafaba for vegan version); 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (Can substitute with vanilla extract); 2 cups Plain Flour (Use gluten-free flour if needed); ½ cup Dutch Process Cocoa (Regular cocoa powder can be used); 1 cup Icing Sugar (Powdered monk fruit is a low-sugar alternative); ½ cup Liquid Glucose/Corn Syrup (Honey or maple syrup can be alternatives); 2 tablespoons Milk (Non-dairy milk is suitable for lactose intolerance); 1 cup Dark Chocolate (Dairy-free chocolate for vegan diets); ½ cup Candy Canes (Can substitute with other holiday candies); 5 Paper Straws (Consider thick metal straws, lightly greased for easy removal)

The aroma of fresh-baked cookies fills my kitchen, instantly whisking me away to the festive cheer of Christmastime. Today, I’m sharing my delight in creating Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies, a unique twist that makes my holiday baking a true standout. These cookies are not just visually stunning; they are incredibly versatile too—perfect as sandwich cookies or rolled tubes brimming with creamy peppermint fondant and elegantly dipped in rich chocolate. You’ll love how quickly they come together, allowing you to focus more on festive gatherings and less on fuss. Plus, they make for delightful homemade gifts that brighten anyone’s holiday spirit. Curious about how to add this festive treat to your cookie lineup? Let’s dive in!

Why Are Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies Special?

Festive Appeal: These cookies bring a vibrant holiday spirit to any gathering, brightening up cookie trays with their cheerful colors and enticing peppermint flavor.
Unique Design: Unlike standard cookies, the rolled shape filled with a creamy peppermint fondant is a fun twist that will impress friends and family.
Versatility: Enjoy them as traditional rolled cookies or try making them as delightful sandwich cookies—either way, they’re a hit!
Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps and minimal time investment, you can whip these up and have more time to enjoy the season.
Gift-Worthy: Perfect for homemade holiday gifts, these cookies encapsulate warmth and thoughtfulness in every bite. Want more festive ideas? Check out my Spring Roll Salad for a delightful side dish!

Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Unsalted Butter – This provides richness and a wonderful flavor; margarine works if you need a dairy-free option.
Egg White – Essential for structural integrity; you can substitute with aquafaba for a vegan-friendly version.
Peppermint Extract – Infuses that refreshing minty flavor; can swap with vanilla extract if you’re not keen on mint.
Plain Flour – Forms the base of the cookie; use gluten-free flour to accommodate gluten-intolerant friends.
Dutch Process Cocoa – This gives a deeper chocolate flavor; regular cocoa powder will work if you can’t find Dutch.
Icing Sugar – Sweetens the filling and creates that smooth texture; powdered monk fruit is a great low-sugar alternative.

For the Filling and Topping

Liquid Glucose/Corn Syrup – Keeps everything moist and binding together; honey or maple syrup can serve as alternatives.
Milk – Adjusts the consistency of your filling; non-dairy milk is perfect for lactose intolerance.
Dark Chocolate – Seals the cookie ends beautifully; dairy-free chocolate is an option for vegan diets.
Candy Canes – Adds a festive crunch and a burst of minty goodness; swap for other holiday candies if desired.

For Shaping

Paper Straws – Used to create your cookie roll shape; consider thick metal straws for a reusable option, lightly greased for easy removal.

Now that you have all the ingredients for your Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies, you’re one step closer to delighting your friends and family with this festive treat!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies

Step 1: Dough Prep
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of unsalted butter, 1 egg white, and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract until creamy. Sift in 2 cups of plain flour, ½ cup of Dutch process cocoa, and 1 cup of icing sugar. Mix until fully combined, achieving a soft dough that’s easy to handle. This forms the basis of your Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies.

Step 2: Shape Cookies
Divide the dough into manageable pieces, approximately the size of a golf ball. Place each piece between two sheets of baking paper, using a rolling pin to flatten into rectangles about ¼ inch thick. Carefully wrap the dough around well-greased paper straws to create tubes, ensuring they are tightly shaped. Refrigerate the rolled cookies for at least 30 minutes to firm up before baking.

Step 3: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once chilled, arrange the rolled dough on a baking sheet, spacing them apart. Bake the cookies for 10 minutes, until they appear set and slightly cracked. Cool them for 5 to 10 minutes on the baking sheet before gently removing the straws to maintain their shape and allow for further cooling.

Step 4: Fill Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. Meanwhile, prepare your peppermint fondant filling by combining icing sugar with liquid glucose or corn syrup and a splash of milk. Once the cookies are cool, fill each tube generously with the creamy peppermint filling, using a piping bag or spoon to ensure they are well-stuffed.

Step 5: Seal and Decorate
Melt 1 cup of dark chocolate in a microwave or double boiler until smooth. Dip the ends of each filled cookie in the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip back into the bowl. To finish, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top while the chocolate is still warm, adding a festive touch to your Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies. Let the chocolate set before serving or storing.

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies

Airtight Container: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and prevents them from drying out.

Refrigeration: If you prefer them crispier, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to a week. Make sure they are well wrapped to maintain flavor.

Freezer: Freeze unfilled cookie tubes, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil, for up to 3 months. Thaw before filling to enjoy fresh Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies whenever you wish.

Reheating: If desired, warm filled cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This softens the chocolate and filling, making for a delightful treat anytime.

Helpful Tricks for Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies

Roll Gently: Make sure to roll the dough carefully to avoid cracks. A gentle touch keeps your Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies looking beautiful.
Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool fully before removing the straws. This crucial step preserves their shape and prevents breakage.
Chill Time Matters: Don’t skip the chilling step! It firms up the dough, making it easier to shape and preventing spreading during baking.
Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative with your fillings. Try using different extracts or even a nut butter for a unique twist on your Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies.
Batch Freeze: Want to prep early? The dough can be made in advance and frozen. Just thaw before rolling and baking for fresh cookies anytime!

Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your peppermint chocolate roll cookies with these fun variations!

Swap Extracts: Try almond or vanilla extract instead of peppermint for a unique flavor profile that still delights.
Sandwich Style: Transform these rolled cookies into sandwich cookies by cutting the dough into rounds and filling them with peppermint fondant. They make delightful treats that are equally fun to eat!
Gluten-Free: Substitute plain flour with gluten-free flour to enjoy this festive treat without gluten, ensuring everyone can partake in the cookie joy.
Dairy-Free: Use margarine and dairy-free chocolate for a completely dairy-free cookie option that still packs all the festive flavor. You won’t miss a thing!
Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of espresso powder to the dough for a mocha twist that complements the chocolate and peppermint beautifully.
Crunchy Coating: Roll the chocolate-dipped ends in crushed nuts or sprinkles instead of candy canes for a delightful twist on textures and flavors.
Heat it Up: Incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper into the filling for a surprising hint of warmth that perfectly balances the sweetness.
Minty Freshness: Substitute crushed mint candies for candy canes for an even stronger mint presence; be prepared for a flavor explosion!

Looking for more delightful ideas? Don’t forget to check out my delicious Spring Roll Salad that’s great for festive gatherings!

What to Serve with Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies

Elevate your festive gatherings by pairing these delightful treats with complementary flavors and textures that enhance their minty charm.

Festive Hot Chocolate: Rich and creamy hot chocolate brings warmth and sweetness, perfectly contrasting the refreshing mint in each cookie.
Peppermint Bark: This decadent treat mirrors the peppermint flavors in your cookies, creating a delightful match for holiday platters.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream provides a neutral backdrop, balancing the cookies’ sweetness while adding a cool, soft texture.
Spiced Tea: A cup of warm spiced tea offers a fragrant contrast, enhancing the holiday feel and providing a cozy beverage option.
Chocolate Dipped Fruit: Fresh strawberries or bananas dipped in dark chocolate create a vibrant, fruity element to balance the cookies’ rich flavors.
Cream Cheese Frosting: A scoop of velvety cream cheese frosting alongside the cookies enhances the festive spirit while adding a tangy sweetness.
Holiday Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits offers a crisp, vibrant side that pairs beautifully with the cookies’ rich filling.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the cookies creates a luscious indulgence that’s sure to please any sweet tooth during holiday feasts.

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to streamline their holiday baking! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. For an even longer option, you can freeze the rolled tubes (before baking) for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your cookies, simply bake them straight from the fridge or freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time if necessary. Once baked, allow them to cool completely before filling with the peppermint fondant, ensuring they hold their shape and flavor beautifully. This prep-ahead approach not only saves time but also guarantees delicious results with minimal last-minute fuss!

Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of butter should I use for these cookies?
For the best flavor, I recommend using unsalted butter, as it provides richness to the dough. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, margarine works well too! Just be certain to pick a suitable brand that maintains a similar texture.

How should I store my Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This helps to preserve their moisture and freshness. If you’re looking for a crispier bite, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, but make sure to wrap them properly to maintain their flavor!

Can I freeze Peppermint Chocolate Roll Cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unfilled cookie tubes by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. They keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Simply thaw them out before filling with the peppermint fondant for fresh cookies anytime you need a festive treat!

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, don’t worry! You can sprinkle a little extra flour on your work surface while rolling it out. Another great trick is to chill the dough for an additional 10-15 minutes in the fridge, which helps firm it up and makes it easier to handle.

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Yes, indeed! If you have dietary restrictions, you can substitute egg whites with aquafaba for a vegan option and use gluten-free flour to accommodate gluten intolerances. For those avoiding sugar, consider using powdered monk fruit instead of icing sugar in the filling. Always remember to check labels for any allergens while selecting chocolate or other ingredients.