If you’re looking to add a festive and flavorful twist to your holiday baking, the Peppermint Red Velvet Blossoms Recipe is an absolute must-try. These cookies capture the classic richness of red velvet with a delightful peppermint punch, all wrapped up in a soft, tender cookie crowned with a signature peppermint Hershey’s Kiss. They are as charming to look at as they are delicious to eat, making them perfect for celebrations or cozy nights in. With their vibrant color and seasonal spirit, these cookies quickly become a beloved treat for friends and family alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients will set you up for success in making the Peppermint Red Velvet Blossoms Recipe. Each component brings its own magic—whether it’s the moist, rich texture from the cake mix or the refreshing hint of peppermint flavor that elevates every bite.
- Red velvet cake mix (15.25 oz): This forms the flavorful base and vibrant red color that defines these cookies.
- Large eggs (2): Eggs provide structure and moisture, ensuring the cookies hold together while staying tender.
- Vegetable oil (1/2 cup): Adds the right amount of fat for a soft, pleasant crumb without overpowering the flavors.
- Peppermint extract (1 teaspoon): A key ingredient that gives the cookies that festive, cool peppermint note.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup, for rolling): Coats each dough ball for an appealing sparkle and slight crunch on the outside.
- Peppermint Hershey’s Kisses (24, unwrapped): The iconic signature topper that melts slightly into the cookie, adding that perfect burst of peppermint.
How to Make Peppermint Red Velvet Blossoms Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature when you’re ready to bake. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and peppermint extract. Stir everything together until a thick, cohesive dough forms—this is the heart of your Peppermint Red Velvet Blossoms Recipe.
Step 3: Shape and Sugar-Coat the Cookies
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into smooth balls. Then, gently roll each ball in the granulated sugar to create a delicate, sparkling coating that adds a lovely texture contrast once baked.
Step 4: Arrange and Bake
Place the sugared dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets to give the cookies room to spread evenly. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes—keep an eye out so that the edges set while the centers remain soft and inviting.
Step 5: Add the Peppermint Kiss
Right after removing the cookies from the oven, press a peppermint Hershey’s Kiss gently into the center of each cookie. The residual heat softens the candy just enough to meld it with the cookie without losing its shape.
Step 6: Cool Completely
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack until completely cool. This step is essential to ensure the tops set beautifully without breaking.
How to Serve Peppermint Red Velvet Blossoms Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are stunning on their own, a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a snowy, festive touch. For an extra pop of color, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies around the plate or drizzle some white chocolate over the cooled cookies to make them truly shine.
Side Dishes
These peppermint-infused treats pair wonderfully with a warm cup of hot cocoa or a creamy vanilla latte. You can also serve them alongside a platter of holiday cheeses and fruits for a charming dessert spread that balances sweet and savory flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Peppermint Red Velvet Blossoms Recipe on a festive holiday platter layered with evergreen sprigs or holly leaves for a seasonal display. Wrapping a few in clear cellophane bags tied with red ribbon makes for delightful edible gifts that spread holiday cheer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. This method helps maintain their soft centers and crisp edges, so you can enjoy them just as much the next day.
Freezing
If you want to make the dough ahead of time, you can freeze unbaked dough balls for up to two months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw and bake as directed to enjoy fresh, festive cookies anytime.
Reheating
For a just-baked warmth, reheat cookies in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. This revives the soft texture and slightly melts the peppermint Kiss for that delightful gooey center.
FAQs
Can I use homemade red velvet cake mix for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade red velvet mix will give your Peppermint Red Velvet Blossoms Recipe an even more personalized flavor. Just make sure your batter is thick enough to roll into balls without being too sticky.
What if I don’t have peppermint extract?
You can substitute with a small amount of crushed peppermint candies mixed into the dough for flavor, but peppermint extract provides a more intense and consistent peppermint taste that’s perfect for this recipe.
Can I use other types of chocolate kisses?
Definitely! While the peppermint Hershey’s Kisses are iconic for this recipe, you can experiment with dark chocolate or milk chocolate kisses, although it will change the peppermint flavor dynamic slightly.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure your dough is chilled slightly before rolling, and leave enough space between dough balls on the baking sheet. Baking them until just set on the edges helps keep their shape intact.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the Peppermint Red Velvet Blossoms Recipe is vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for many dietary preferences during the holidays.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the Peppermint Red Velvet Blossoms Recipe that makes it stand out in any holiday cookie lineup. It’s so easy to make, bursting with festive flavor, and always manages to bring smiles and warmth to those who taste it. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and watch it become your new holiday favorite!
Print
Peppermint Red Velvet Blossoms Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Peppermint Red Velvet Blossoms are festive, soft red velvet cookies infused with peppermint extract and topped with a classic peppermint Hershey’s Kiss. Perfect for holiday celebrations, these easy-to-make cookies combine rich red velvet flavor with a refreshing peppermint twist, creating a delightful treat that melts in your mouth.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 box red velvet cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
Coating and Topping
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
- 24 peppermint Hershey’s Kisses (unwrapped)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make the Cookie Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and peppermint extract. Stir until a thick dough forms, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Form Dough Balls: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into smooth balls with your hands.
- Coat with Sugar: Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar until fully coated. This adds a slight crunch and a sweet exterior to the cookies.
- Arrange on Baking Sheets: Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft and slightly underbaked for a fudgy texture.
- Add Peppermint Hershey’s Kisses: Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately press an unwrapped peppermint Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. The warmth will help the kiss gently melt into the cookie.
- Cool the Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, preventing them from breaking apart.
Notes
- For extra peppermint flavor, stir in 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candy into the dough before baking.
- Store finished cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- You can freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 2 months; thaw before baking.
