Mint Chocolate Cookie Dough Bites
Highlighted under: Classic Bakery Favorites
I absolutely love whipping up a batch of these Mint Chocolate Cookie Dough Bites for a quick treat. The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing mint creates a delightful experience that’s hard to resist. I’ve experimented with various flavors, but this one stands out due to its creamy texture and the way the mint enhances the chocolate. They’re super easy to make and perfect for satisfying a sweet craving or impressing friends at gatherings.
When I first tried making these Mint Chocolate Cookie Dough Bites, I thought it would be just another sweet treat. However, I was blown away by how simple and satisfying they are. The key is using high-quality cocoa powder and mint extract, which infuse the dough with an unforgettable flavor. I remember the first time I shared them; everyone wanted the recipe!
The sweetness of the cookie dough balances perfectly with the rich chocolate coating. I like to refrigerate them briefly to let the chocolate set, which helps create that perfect crunch when you take a bite. These bites have quickly become a go-to for any occasion!
Why You'll Love These Bites
- Irresistible combination of mint and chocolate
- Perfectly balanced sweetness and freshness
- Quick and easy to make with just a few ingredients
Understanding the Ingredients
The key to achieving the perfect texture for your Mint Chocolate Cookie Dough Bites lies in the balance of your dry ingredients. Using unsweetened cocoa powder not only enhances the chocolate flavor but also adds depth to the dough's texture. Additionally, all-purpose flour provides structure, while the combination of unsalted butter and sugars creates that rich, creamy base. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can swap the butter for coconut oil and use a plant-based butter alternative for an equally delightful result.
Peppermint extract is the star of this recipe, amplifying the flavor profile with its refreshing zing. Be cautious with the amount; too much peppermint can overpower the chocolate. For those who prefer a milder mint flavor, start with half a teaspoon and adjust according to your taste. Keeping the salt to 1/4 teaspoon balances the sweetness of the sugars while enhancing the overall flavor without making the bites taste salty.
Perfecting Your Technique
When shaping the cookie dough bites, ensure your hands are slightly damp. This prevents the dough from sticking and allows you to roll the bites more easily. Aim for uniform size at about 1 inch in diameter so they all chill and coat evenly. If the dough feels too soft to shape, chilling it for an additional 10 minutes in the refrigerator before rolling can help firm it up sufficiently.
While melting the chocolate for the coating, be sure to use a microwave-safe bowl and stir every 30 seconds to prevent overheating. If the chocolate seizes or becomes clumpy, adding a few drops of coconut oil can help restore its texture. The goal is a smooth, glossy chocolate that coats each bite evenly. If it's too thick, don’t hesitate to add more coconut oil for a thinner consistency that glides over the cookie dough.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough Bites
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
For the Coating
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add in peppermint extract and mix well. Gradually mix in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until a dough forms. Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
Shape Bites
Using your hands, scoop out small portions of the dough and roll them into balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined tray. Once shaped, set the tray in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to firm up.
Prepare the Chocolate Coating
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.
Coat the Bites
Dip each cooled cookie dough bite into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Return them to the parchment-lined tray. Once dipped, repeat with all bites.
Chill and Serve
Place the tray back in the refrigerator for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the chocolate to set. Once set, they are ready to serve!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, add crushed peppermint candies to the chocolate coating for a festive look and added crunch.
Cooling and Storing
After coating the bites in chocolate, chilling them in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes allows the chocolate to set perfectly, giving you a satisfying snap when you bite into them. These treats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Before serving, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes if you prefer a softer chocolate coating.
If you wish to save some for later, these bites also freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the refrigerator for a couple of hours or at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Mint Chocolate Cookie Dough Bites are an excellent standalone treat, but they can also be elevated with a few creative serving ideas. Try drizzling melted chocolate over the top before serving or sprinkling crushed peppermint candies for an added crunch and visual appeal. Pair these bites with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee to balance the flavors.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla or mint chocolate chip ice cream. This combination not only enhances the flavors but also adds a delightful cold contrast to the rich bites. With their eye-catching appearance and incredible taste, these cookie dough bites will be the star of any gathering!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate or white chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste.
→ How long can I store these bites?
They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ Are these bites suitable for vegans?
To make them vegan, use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips.
Mint Chocolate Cookie Dough Bites
I absolutely love whipping up a batch of these Mint Chocolate Cookie Dough Bites for a quick treat. The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing mint creates a delightful experience that’s hard to resist. I’ve experimented with various flavors, but this one stands out due to its creamy texture and the way the mint enhances the chocolate. They’re super easy to make and perfect for satisfying a sweet craving or impressing friends at gatherings.
What You'll Need
For the Cookie Dough Bites
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
For the Coating
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
How-To Steps
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add in peppermint extract and mix well. Gradually mix in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until a dough forms. Fold in the mini chocolate chips.
Using your hands, scoop out small portions of the dough and roll them into balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined tray. Once shaped, set the tray in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to firm up.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.
Dip each cooled cookie dough bite into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Return them to the parchment-lined tray. Once dipped, repeat with all bites.
Place the tray back in the refrigerator for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the chocolate to set. Once set, they are ready to serve!
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, add crushed peppermint candies to the chocolate coating for a festive look and added crunch.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 1g