French Peppermint Cookies with Chocolate Ganache are a delightful blend of festive flavors and textures. These light, crisp French-style peppermint meringue cookies are dipped in rich chocolate ganache, creating a perfect treat for any occasion. Imagine the airy texture of meringue combined with the smoothness of chocolate, topped with crushed peppermint for an extra festive touch. They are not only elegant but also incredibly satisfying, making them a great addition to your dessert table or a sweet gift for friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This French Peppermint Cookies with
These cookies are sure to become a holiday favorite! Here are a few reasons to love them:
- Unique flavor: The combination of peppermint and chocolate creates a refreshing taste that’s perfect for the holiday season.
- Elegant presentation: Their light and airy structure makes them visually appealing.
- Easy to make: This easy peppermint cookie recipe allows bakers of all skill levels to enjoy making these treats.
- Versatile: They can be served at various occasions, from holiday parties to casual family gatherings.
- Low-calorie option: At only **95 calories** per cookie, they are a guilt-free indulgence.
- Vegetarian-friendly: These cookies fit well within a vegetarian diet, catering to various dietary needs.
Ingredients for French Peppermint Cookies with
Gather these items:
- 3 egg whites, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
- 1 dash peppermint extract (to taste)
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar (as needed)
- 1 (6 oz) package semisweet chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream (as needed)
- 1 tsp white sugar
- 1 peppermint candy cane, finely crushed
How to Make French Peppermint Cookies with Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Move the oven rack to the bottom position and preheat oven to 175°F (80°C). Line baking sheets with aluminum foil.
- Step 2: In a double boiler over simmering water, whisk egg whites and **1/4 cup white sugar** until smooth.
- Step 3: Add cream of tartar and peppermint extract and beat until foamy.
- Step 4: Gradually whisk in confectioners’ sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
- Step 5: Scoop 1 tablespoon mounds of meringue onto prepared sheets and shape into football-shaped cookies.
- Step 6: Bake for 1 1/2 hours until dry on the outside but slightly soft inside. Cool completely before removing from foil.
- Step 7: Prepare the ganache by melting chocolate chips in a double boiler until smooth.
- Step 8: Add cream gradually until the ganache is thick but smooth. Stir in **1 teaspoon sugar** until dissolved.
- Step 9: Dip cooled meringue cookies into ganache, place on parchment, and sprinkle with crushed peppermint.
- Step 10: Let set completely and refrigerate leftovers.
Pro Tips for the Perfect French Peppermint Cookies with
Keep these in mind:
- Ensure your egg whites are at room temperature for better volume.
- Don’t rush the baking time; slow drying is key for the right texture.
- Use a double boiler to melt the chocolate for a smooth ganache.
- For a fun twist, try adding crushed peppermint to the meringue mix.
Best Ways to Serve French Peppermint Cookies with
These cookies can be enjoyed in various delightful ways:
- Pair them with a warm cup of hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
- Serve them at holiday parties as a festive dessert option.
- Package them as gifts in decorative boxes for friends and family.
How to Store and Reheat French Peppermint Cookies with
To store your cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you have leftovers, simply follow the final step in the instructions and refrigerate them. These cookies can be made ahead of time, making them a great option for meal prep during the holiday season.
Frequently Asked Questions About French Peppermint Cookies with
What’s the secret to perfect French Peppermint Cookies with?
The secret lies in achieving the right texture for the meringue. Beating the egg whites until stiff peaks form is crucial for light and airy cookies. Additionally, using quality peppermint extract enhances the flavor.
Can I make French Peppermint Cookies with ahead of time?
Yes, these cookies can be made in advance. Just ensure they are stored properly in an airtight container to maintain their crispy texture.
How do I avoid common mistakes with French Peppermint Cookies with?
To avoid common pitfalls, make sure your mixing bowl and utensils are free of grease, as this can prevent egg whites from whipping properly. Also, be patient during the baking time to achieve the perfect texture.
Variations of French Peppermint Cookies with You Can Try
Here are some fun variations to consider:
- For a chocolate twist, incorporate minty chocolate chip cookies by adding chocolate chips into the meringue.
- Try different extracts, such as vanilla or almond, for a unique flavor profile.
- Experiment with different toppings, like drizzled white chocolate or colorful sprinkles for a festive look.
These cookies can be enjoyed in various delightful ways:
- Pair them with a warm cup of hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
- Serve them at holiday parties as a festive dessert option.
- Package them as gifts in decorative boxes for friends and family.
French Peppermint Cookies with Chocolate Ganache Delight
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Light, crisp French-style peppermint meringue cookies dipped in rich chocolate ganache and topped with crushed peppermint. Elegant, festive, and wonderfully airy with a creamy chocolate finish.
Ingredients
- 3 egg whites, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1/4 tsp cream of tartar
- 1 dash peppermint extract (to taste)
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar (as needed)
- 1 (6 oz) package semisweet chocolate chips
- 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream (as needed)
- 1 tsp white sugar
- 1 peppermint candy cane, finely crushed
Instructions
- Move the oven rack to the bottom position and preheat oven to 175°F (80°C). Line baking sheets with aluminum foil.
- In a double boiler over simmering water, whisk egg whites and 1/4 cup white sugar until smooth.
- Add cream of tartar and peppermint extract and beat until foamy.
- Gradually whisk in confectioners’ sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
- Scoop 1 tablespoon mounds of meringue onto prepared sheets and shape into football-shaped cookies.
- Bake for 1 1/2 hours until dry on the outside but slightly soft inside. Cool completely before removing from foil.
- Prepare the ganache by melting chocolate chips in a double boiler until smooth.
- Add cream gradually until the ganache is thick but smooth. Stir in 1 teaspoon sugar until dissolved.
- Dip cooled meringue cookies into ganache, place on parchment, and sprinkle with crushed peppermint.
- Let set completely and refrigerate leftovers.
Notes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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