Peppermint Chocolate Cookies

From Every Day with Rachael Day
December-January 2009

In the spirit of the holiday season, I'm sharing a terrific holiday cookie recipe that can satisfy both chocolate AND peppermint lovers in one's family. While the prep time is only 30 minutes, you will need to keep in mind that that there is substantial chilling and cooling involved, which means these cannot be made at the last minute before family or friends are scheduled to arrive.

MAKES 24
Prep Time: 30 min (plus chilling and cooling)
Bake Time: 20 min

Ingredients
-1 1/2 sticks (6 ounces) unsalted butter, softened
-1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
-1 large egg
-1 1/2 cups flour
-1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
-1 pinch salt
-Two 3.5-ounce bars dark chocolate, finely chopped
-1/2 teaspoon vegetable oil
-2/3 cup finely crushed peppermint candy canes or candies

1. Using an electric mixer, beat the butter until soft. With the mixer on low, gradually add the confectioners' sugar until creamy, then beat in the egg. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa and salt; add to the mixer about one-third at a time, beating at low speed until smooth.
2. Lay a 16-inch sheet of parchment paper on a work surface; turn out the dough onto the paper. Using your hands, shape the dough into a 12-inch-long cylinder; wrap tightly in the parchment and roll into a smooth, even log. Twist the ends to seal and refrigerate for 30 minutes; reshape the cylinder and refrigerate for 30 minutes more.
3. Preheat the oven to 350°; line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper. Unwrap the dough; using a sharp knife, slice into 1/3-inch-thick rounds. Place about 1 inch apart on the cookie sheets; bake until firm, 18 to 20 minutes. Let cool completely.
4. In a bowl, combine two-thirds of the chopped chocolate with the oil; microwave for 30 seconds, then stir until smooth. (If needed, heat for additional 10-second intervals.) Stir in the remaining chopped chocolate until smooth.
5. Using an offset spatula, spread a scant teaspoon of melted chocolate on top of each cookie. Sprinkle the peppermints on top and let stand until set, 2 to 3 hours.

Enjoy!