Chocolate Peppermint Walnut Cookies

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

1/2 cup butter, softened

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1 egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 cup flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/3 cup coarsely chopped California Walnuts

Ghiradelli Peppermint Chunks or coarsely chopped peppermint  chocolate candies 

Beat butter and sugars in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla, then stir in cocoa powder. Stir together flour, baking soda and salt, then stir into chocolate mixture. Refrigerate for 1 hour or until slightly firmed. Preheat oven to 350°F and line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.  Roll into 3/4-inch balls and place on baking sheets. Flatten slightly then press 3 to 4 pieces of peppermint chocolate into the top of each. Bake for 10 minutes or until cookies are set, but still slightly soft in the middle. Let cool, then store in an airtight container.  Makes about 24 small cookies.

Chocolate Peppermint Ice Cream Sandwiches

Place small scoops of Crystal Peppermint Blizzard Ice Cream between 2 cookies. Place on a baking sheet and freeze until very firm. Wrap individually and keep frozen until ready to serve.