Andes Mint Chip Soft Fudgy Chocolate Cookies
If you’re searching for a cookie that perfectly balances rich chocolate and refreshing mint, look no further than these Andes Mint Chip Soft Fudgy Chocolate Cookies. They are the ultimate sweet treat that will delight your taste buds and impress anyone lucky enough to share them with you. Moist, fudgy, and packed with delightful minty flavor, these cookies are perfect for any occasion—from cozy evenings at home to festive gatherings. Let’s dive into the details of this delectable recipe!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These Andes Mint Chip Soft Fudgy Chocolate Cookies are not just your average chocolate cookies. Here’s what makes them special:
- Soft & Fudgy Texture: Each bite melts in your mouth, thanks to a perfect blend of ingredients.
- Minty Freshness: The addition of Andes mint chips brings a refreshing twist that elevates the chocolate flavor.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The hint of espresso enhances the chocolate richness without overpowering the mint.
What’s in the Bowl
Ready to gather your ingredients? Here’s what you’ll need for these Andes Mint Chip Soft Fudgy Chocolate Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (1 1/2 sticks)
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 packet instant chocolate pudding mix (about 3.7 to 3.9 ounces; not sugar-free and not cook & serve)
- 1 cup unsweetened natural cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon instant espresso granules (optional but recommended)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch salt (optional, to taste)
- 1 (10-ounce) bag Andes Creme de Menthe Baking Chips (mint baking chips may be substituted)
- 2.5 to 3 ounces dark chocolate, chopped (Trader Joe’s 72% Pound Plus Bar works great)
Appliances & Accessories
Having the right tools can make your baking experience seamless. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing Bowls: A large bowl for mixing wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry ingredients.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: To ensure accurate measurements of ingredients.
- Electric Mixer: A stand or hand mixer will make creaming butter and sugar easier.
- Baking Sheets: Use non-stick or lined with parchment paper for easy cookie removal.
- Cookie Scoop: Helps in portioning uniform cookie dough.
Andes Mint Chip Soft Fudgy Chocolate Cookies — Do This Next
Now, let’s get baking! Follow these steps to create your Andes Mint Chip Soft Fudgy Chocolate Cookies:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 4: Incorporate the Pudding Mix
Add the instant chocolate pudding mix to the butter mixture and stir until well blended. This will help create that fudgy texture we all love.
Step 5: Mix in Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing!
Step 6: Add the Chocolate and Mint Chips
Fold in the Andes Creme de Menthe Baking Chips and chopped dark chocolate until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space for the cookies to spread.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. They will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Andes Mint Chip Soft Fudgy Chocolate Cookies while they’re still slightly warm!
Allergy-Friendly Substitutes
If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, here are some substitutes you can consider:
- Butter: Use a vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Eggs: Substitute each egg with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water).
- Flour: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.
- Sugar: Use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener for a lower-calorie option.
What Could Go Wrong
Even the best bakers can face challenges. Here are a few things that might go wrong and how to avoid them:
- Overmixing: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Cookies Spread Too Much: Ensure your butter is softened but not melted. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help if they spread excessively.
- Dry Cookies: Avoid overbaking! Keep an eye on them and take them out when they still look slightly underbaked.
- Flavor Imbalance: Use quality chocolate and mint chips to ensure the flavors shine through.
Shelf Life & Storage
To keep your Andes Mint Chip Soft Fudgy Chocolate Cookies fresh, follow these tips:
- Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: You can refrigerate them for up to 10 days, but they may lose some of their fudginess.
- Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Common Questions
Can I use different types of chocolate chips?
Absolutely! You can substitute the Andes mint chips with any chocolate chips you prefer, such as semi-sweet, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate.
How do I ensure my cookies stay soft?
Do not overbake them. The cookies should look slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven, as they will continue to set while cooling.
What can I add to enhance the mint flavor?
You can add a few drops of peppermint extract to the dough for an extra minty kick, but be cautious as it can be potent.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping and baking.
Serve with These
Pair your Andes Mint Chip Soft Fudgy Chocolate Cookies with these delightful options for an even more satisfying treat:
- Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
- Creamy Coconut Milk Hot Chocolate
- Peppermint Mocha Coffee
- Homemade Whipped Cream
Let’s Eat
These Andes Mint Chip Soft Fudgy Chocolate Cookies are a delightful way to indulge in a classic flavor combination that will leave you craving more. With their fudgy texture and refreshing minty taste, they are perfect for any chocolate lover. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare for a cookie experience that will surely become a favorite in your home. Happy baking!
Andes Mint Chip Soft Fudgy Chocolate Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes.
- Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Step 4: Add the instant chocolate pudding mix to the butter mixture and stir until well blended.
- Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Step 6: Fold in the Andes Creme de Menthe Baking Chips and chopped dark chocolate until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Step 7: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space for the cookies to spread.
- Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
- Step 9: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes if cookies spread too much during baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
