Jingle Bell Bites
As the holiday season rolls around, our kitchens come alive with the scents and flavors of cherished traditions, and Jingle Bell Bites—a delightful mix of white and semi-sweet chocolate studded with crushed peppermint—are one of the season’s sweetest treats. Easy to make and bursting with festive flavor, they’re more than just cookies; they’re a connection to cherished memories and family traditions that you’ll find yourself baking year after year.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 1 cup crushed peppermint candies
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Optional: sprinkles for decoration
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, beating until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the white chocolate and semi-sweet chocolate chips, as well as the crushed peppermint candies, ensuring an even distribution.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for the bites to hold their shape while baking.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place them spaced apart on the baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The bites will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Once out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For an extra festive touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled Jingle Bell Bites and sprinkle with additional crushed peppermint before serving.
Cook’s Notes
For extra holiday warmth, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. You can also swap in dark chocolate or caramel chips for the classic white and semi-sweet mix to give the bites your own unique flair.
Ingredient Swaps
For a nutty crunch, replace some of the chocolate chips with chopped walnuts or pecans. To make the bites dairy-free, use coconut oil instead of butter along with dairy-free chocolate chips, or substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for the all-purpose flour to make them gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
Jingle Bell Bites are perfect for cozy family evenings, festive parties, and casual get-togethers with friends, and they also make a thoughtful homemade gift to spread holiday cheer.
Storage & Reheating
Store Jingle Bell Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them once completely cooled in an airtight container for up to 3 months, and reheat in a 300°F oven for a few minutes to restore their texture.
Common Questions
Can I make Jingle Bell Bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days—just add a little extra baking time if it’s still cold.
How should I store my Jingle Bell Bites?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze them for longer storage.
Can I freeze Jingle Bell Bites?
Yes, freeze them after baking once they’re completely cooled in an airtight container, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months.
