When I first tried making gluten-free chocolate peppermint cookies with almond flour, I was intrigued by the combination of flavors. Almond flour adds a lovely texture, while cocoa and peppermint create a festive vibe. It’s a perfect option for those who can’t have gluten. But there’s so much more to explore about this recipe, from the essential kitchen tools to variations that can elevate your baking experience. Let’s uncover what makes these cookies truly special.
What kind of recipe is it?
The Gluten-Free Chocolate Peppermint Cookie is a delightful dessert that perfectly blends rich, chocolatey goodness with refreshing peppermint flavors.
This cookie stands out with its gluten-free ingredients, making it suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
It’s a festive treat ideal for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth any time of the year.
Family and friends alike will enjoy these cookies, making them a must-try for chocolate and peppermint lovers seeking a deliciously inclusive option.
Preparation Time
| Recipe Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Difficulty of the Recipe | Easy |
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Number of Servings | 24 cookies |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Almond flour | 2 cups |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | ½ cup |
| Baking soda | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon |
| Peppermint extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Coconut sugar | ¾ cup |
| Maple syrup | ¼ cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Dark chocolate chips | 1 cup (gluten-free) |
| Crushed candy canes | ½ cup |
These ingredients will create delicious gluten-free chocolate peppermint cookies that are perfect for any occasion.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
| Tool/Equipment | Purpose | Alternative Option |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing bowls (large and medium) | Used for mixing dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately before combining them to create cookie dough. | Any large, sturdy bowl can work. Plastic or glass bowls are budget-friendly options. |
| Measuring cups (dry and liquid) | Essential for accurately measuring ingredients like almond flour, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and coconut sugar, ensuring the recipe’s precision. | Use any standardized cups you may have at home, like a coffee mug for dry and a liquid measuring container for wet ingredients. |
| Measuring spoons | Used to measure smaller quantities of baking soda, salt, peppermint extract, and other seasonings, critical for achieving the right flavor balance. | A small regular spoon can serve in a pinch, but be cautious about exact measurements. |
| Stand mixer or hand mixer | Ideal for quickly combining ingredients like eggs, coconut sugar, and liquids thoroughly, creating a smooth cookie dough without manual effort. | A whisk can be used for manual mixing, though it requires more time and effort. |
| Rubber spatula | Perfect for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl and folding in chocolate chips and crushed candy canes to ensure even distribution in the dough. | A wooden spoon or an old (clean) plastic card can substitute for scraping. |
| Wooden spoon | Useful for mixing dough together, particularly if the mixture is thick or requires a bit more elbow grease to come together. | A sturdy plastic spoon can also be effective for stirring the dough. |
| Baking sheets (2-3) | Necessary for placing cookie dough on to bake evenly in the oven. Having multiple sheets allows for batch baking without waiting for one to cool. | Any flat baking surface that can withstand heat, like a pizza tray, can work in a pinch. |
| Parchment paper or silicone mats | Helps prevent cookies from sticking to the baking sheets, making for easy cleanup and perfect baking. | If not available, lightly greasing the baking sheets or using aluminum foil can serve as alternatives, though non-stick properties may vary. |
| Cookie scoop or spoon | Makes it easy to portion out uniform-sized cookie dough balls, ensuring even baking and consistent cookie size. | A tablespoon can be used to scoop and shape the dough manually, though this may not yield perfectly uniform cookies. |
| Cooling rack | Allows cookies to cool evenly after baking, preventing steam from being trapped below and keeping the cookies from getting soggy. | A sturdy wire rack or a plate can be used as alternatives, provided there’s good airflow under the cookies. |
| Oven thermometer | Ensures that the oven is at the correct temperature for baking the cookies, which is crucial for proper cooking time and texture. | If you don’t have an oven thermometer, you can check using the temperature settings on your oven; just be cautious as they might not be very accurate. |
This table outlines the essential kitchen equipment and their purposes for creating gluten-free chocolate peppermint cookies while also providing budget-friendly alternatives to help with accessibility.
Cooking Steps
- Preheat your oven to 175 °C (350 °F) and position the oven rack in the center. Prepare two baking sheets (approximately 33 x 24 cm (13 x 10 inches)) by lining them with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- In a large mixing bowl, sift together 240 g (2 cups) of almond flour, 50 g (½ cup) of cocoa powder, ¼ tsp of baking soda, and ¼ tsp of salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of dry ingredients.
- In a separate medium mixing bowl, combine 120 ml (½ cup) of melted coconut oil and 100 g (½ cup) of coconut sugar. Whisk together until well combined and slightly fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Add in 2 large eggs and 1 tsp of peppermint extract, continuing to whisk until smooth.
- Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky.
- Incorporate 150 g (1 cup) of gluten-free chocolate chips and 50 g (½ cup) of crushed candy canes into the dough using the spatula. Mix until evenly distributed throughout.
- Use a cookie scoop (approximately 30 ml (2 tbsp)) or a tablespoon to portion out the dough evenly onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing the cookie dough balls about 5 cm (2 inches) apart. You should form around 24 cookies.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should look set with the edges starting to crisp slightly; the centers may appear soft but will firm up as they cool.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The cookies should feel soft but not doughy to the touch.
- Allow the cookies to rest at room temperature for at least 15 minutes to enhance texture and flavor. If desired, enjoy warm or store in an airtight container once cooled completely.
Variations
- Nutty Chocolate Chip Cookies: Add 100 g (1 cup) of finely chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Vegan Peppermint Cookies: Replace the eggs with 60 ml (¼ cup) of unsweetened applesauce and use a plant-based chocolate chip for a completely vegan option.
- Pumpkin Spice Cookies: Mix in 120 g (½ cup) of canned pumpkin purée and 1 tsp of ground cinnamon for a seasonal fall twist.
- Coconut Macadamia Cookies: Substitute half of the almond flour with 120 g (1 cup) of desiccated coconut and add 100 g (1 cup) of chopped macadamia nuts for a tropical flavor.
- Chocolate Orange Cookies: Incorporate 1 tbsp of orange zest and reduce peppermint extract to ½ tsp to create a citrusy chocolate experience.
- Dairy-Free Cookies: Ensure the chocolate chips are dairy-free and replace coconut oil with 120 ml (½ cup) of avocado oil for a healthy fat alternative.
- Mint Chocolate Swirl Cookies: Swirl in 2 tbsp of green food coloring into the dough for a festive look that emphasizes the mint flavor.
- Air-Fried Cookies: Use an air fryer set to 160 °C (320 °F) and cook for 8-10 minutes for a quicker, low-oil version of the cookies.
Tips on plating and presentation
When you’ve perfected your variations of gluten-free chocolate peppermint cookies, it’s time to think about how to present them.
I love using simple plating techniques like stacking the cookies or arranging them on a decorative plate.
Adding dessert garnishes like fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of chocolate sauce enhances the visual appeal, making your treats irresistible and inviting to any guest.
What other dishes can I pair it with?
To elevate your gluten-free chocolate peppermint cookies, consider pairing them with complementary dishes that enhance their festive flavors.
You can serve them alongside a rich, flourless chocolate cake or a peppermint-infused fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
These cookie pairings create a delightful array of festive desserts that will impress your guests and make your holiday gatherings even more memorable.
What drinks can I pair it with?
Pairing drinks with your gluten-free chocolate peppermint cookies can further enhance the festive experience.
I love enjoying them with warm peppermint hot chocolate for a cozy treat. If you prefer something lighter, a creamy vanilla almond milk works beautifully too.
For the adventurous, try pairing them with a rich espresso; the flavors complement the cookie pairings perfectly.
Explore these beverage options for delightful combinations!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Almond Flour With Another Flour?
Yes, you can substitute almond flour with other flours, but I’ve noticed texture differences. Each flour has its own nutritional benefits, so I recommend experimenting to find what best suits your taste and dietary needs.
Are These Cookies Suitable for Vegans?
Yes, these cookies can be suitable for vegans! I use plant-based substitutes like applesauce or flaxseed meal instead of eggs. Just ensure all your ingredients are vegan-friendly, and you’re ready to enjoy delicious cookies!
How Should I Store the Cookies?
I recommend storing the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Use best containers like glass or plastic; they’ll help maintain moisture. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them to extend shelf life.
Can I Freeze the Cookie Dough?
Absolutely, you can freeze the cookie dough! Just make sure it has the right dough consistency. For freezing tips, portion it out on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container for easy access later.
What Gives the Cookies Their Peppermint Flavor?
The cookies get their peppermint flavor from peppermint extract and crushed candy. I love adding both for an extra kick, creating a delightful balance that really enhances the chocolatey goodness in each bite.