Day 8: Eight Maids a-Milking (Peppermint Mocha Cookies with White Chocolate Chips)

Skill Level: Intermediate Special Utensils: None

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• ¼ cup crushed peppermint candies

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add wet ingredients: Beat in the egg and then stir in the cooled coffee and peppermint extract.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.  
    
5. Add chocolate chips and peppermint: Stir in the white chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies.
6. Scoop and bake: Drop by rounded tablespoons onto ungreased baking sheets.
7. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Cool: Let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

• For a stronger peppermint flavor, increase the amount of peppermint extract.
• You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a spicy twist.

Enjoy your festive Peppermint Mocha Cookies!