There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about a cookie that captures the essence of the holiday season, and these Chocolate Peppermint Cookies do just that. Picture this: as you take that first bite, the rich, velvety chocolate melts on your tongue, harmonizing perfectly with a burst of cool peppermint. It’s a match made in cookie heaven that feels like a warm hug on a chilly winter night.

I remember the first time I baked these cookies for a holiday gathering. The delightful aroma wafting through my kitchen had everyone eagerly anticipating a taste. These cookies are not just delicious; they are incredibly easy to whip up, making them the perfect treat whether you’re hosting a festive celebration or simply craving a comforting snack after a long day.

With their crispy edges and gooey centers, they’re bound to be a hit with family and friends alike. Let’s dive into this recipe that promises to bring joy and warmth to your home, one chocolatey, peppermint-infused bite at a time!

Why are Chocolate Peppermint Cookies irresistible?

Decadent chocolate and refreshing peppermint create an unforgettable flavor experience that delights cookie lovers. Easy to make, this recipe requires minimal ingredients and no fancy equipment, perfect for bakers of all levels. Gifts that impress: Package these cookies as gifts, and watch their faces light up with joy. Versatile enough for variations—think adding white chocolate or crushed candy canes for an extra twist! These cookies encapsulate the essence of the holiday season, offering comfort and cheer with every bite. Enjoy them warm with a glass of milk, or learn more about serving suggestions to make your holiday gatherings special!

Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to bake these delightful treats!

For the Cookie Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture; gluten-free flour can be substituted for a gluten-free option.
Cocoa Powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor; for a stronger taste, consider using cacao powder.
Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; no significant substitutes necessary.
Baking Soda – A leavening agent that helps cookies rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
Baking Powder – Adds lift for a lighter cookie texture; can be omitted for denser cookies.
Salted Butter – Imparts richness and moisture; feel free to use unsalted butter and add a pinch more salt.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and contributes to browning; alternative sweeteners can adjust the sweetness but no direct substitutes for flavor.
Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor; can replace with more granulated sugar if needed.
Egg – Acts as a binder and adds moisture; for a vegan version, use a flax or chia egg instead.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the cookie’s flavor depth; optional, but omitting it reduces flavor complexity.
Peppermint Chips – The star ingredient that infuses a delightful peppermint taste; substitutes like Andes Peppermint Crunch are available.
Crushed Candy Cane – An optional topping that adds holiday spirit and a delightful crunch.

Optional Toppings

Extra Peppermint Chips – For a delightful visual appeal and extra peppermint flavor; press onto cookies before baking.
White Chocolate Chips – Substitute for half of the chocolate chips for a creamy twist.

Dive into the festive baking spirit with these Chocolate Peppermint Cookies that are sure to bring warmth and joy to your kitchen!

How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Set this mixture aside for later use.
Cream Butter and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, cream the softened salted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together on medium-high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Add Egg and Vanilla
Next, mix in the egg and vanilla extract. Beat everything together until fully combined and fluffy.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just incorporated. You should have a thick, rich dough.
Fold in Peppermint Chips
Using a spatula, stir in the peppermint chips evenly across the dough, ensuring each cookie will have that delightful minty flavor.
Shape the Cookies
Scoop the dough into 2-inch balls and space them about 3 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Optionally, press extra peppermint chips onto the tops of the dough for a festive touch.
Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the edges are dark brown and the centers appear set. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional: Serve warm with a glass of milk for the ultimate treat.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and gooey centers.
Fridge: If you want to extend their life slightly, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to 5 days in an airtight container, though they may lose some of their chewiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftover Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to restore their original softness.

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy seasons! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 72 hours in advance. Just mix the ingredients as usual, scoop the dough into balls, and then cover and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, simply take the dough out and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking. This ensures that your cookies will turn out just as delicious as if they were made fresh. You can also freeze the unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months—just keep in mind to extend the baking time by a couple of minutes if they go straight from the freezer to the oven. This way, you’ll always have warm, gooey cookies at hand without the fuss!

What to Serve with Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?

These delightful cookies are perfect not only on their own but also as a part of a mouthwatering holiday spread!

Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy warmth of hot chocolate complements the peppermint perfectly, creating a soothing winter drink experience.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The ice cream’s cool creaminess balances the rich chocolate and mint, making every bite a luscious treat.
Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee enhance the cookie’s chocolate richness and provide a comforting pick-me-up.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: Add a touch of elegance and freshness, as the berries’ sweetness mingles beautifully with the peppermint.
Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of whipped cream on the side creates a delightful addition, making for a gorgeous presentation and tempting pairing.
Cinnamon Sugar Almonds: Their crunchy texture and warm spice contrast nicely against the gooey cookies while enhancing the overall holiday feel.
Minty Milkshake: Blending chocolate and mint into a milkshake creates a fun, indulgent pairing that will impress guests of all ages.
Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits like apples and pears provide a refreshing contrast, cutting through the sweetness of the cookies for a balanced dessert experience.

Each pairing brings out the best in your Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, making your holiday gatherings unforgettable!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Chill the Dough: If your dough is too soft, chill it for up to 30 minutes. This helps maintain shape during baking, creating perfectly round cookies.
Watch the Baking Time: Overbaking can lead to dry cookies. Keep an eye on them and pull them out as soon as the edges are dark brown while the centers look set for a gooey texture.
Precision Matters: Use a kitchen scale to measure flour. Too much flour can lead to dense cookies, while the right amount ensures a soft, chewy result in your Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.
Mix Gradually: When incorporating dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in tougher cookies, so be gentle to keep them light and fluffy.
Cookie Size Consistency: Use a cookie scoop for uniform-sized dough balls, ensuring even baking and perfect presentation for your delightful treats.

Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on these beloved cookies, adding flavors and textures that delight your family.

Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly option. Everyone can enjoy the holiday cheer!
Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips to create a cookie loved by those avoiding dairy. These options keep the texture and taste fantastic!
Extra Minty: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the dough for an intensified mint flavor. The delightful aroma will fill your kitchen!
Espresso Boost: Mix in a teaspoon of espresso powder to enhance the chocolate notes. This creates a deeper richness that chocolate lovers will adore.
Coconut Flair: Stir in sweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist. The chewy texture and sweet flavor complement the cookies beautifully!
Candy Cane Crunch: Top your cookies with crushed candy cane pieces right before baking for an extra festive touch of crunch and color.
Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and depth. It’ll bring a lovely nutty flavor to your sweet treat!
White Chocolate Delight: Swap half of the chocolate chips for white chocolate chips for a creamy, dreamy combo. This variation is perfect for a celebratory dessert!

Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients like butter and eggs, opt for fresh, high-quality items. For butter, look for one that’s creamy and smooth without any discoloration. For eggs, a quick freshness test is to place them in a bowl of water—fresh eggs will sink, while older ones float!

How should I store my Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them for up to 5 days. Just remember, the refrigerator can dry them out a bit, so be sure they’re sealed tightly.

Can I freeze Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, and how?
Certainly! Freezing is a great way to preserve your cookies for future enjoyment. To freeze, arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or bake at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too soft?
If you find that your dough is too soft to work with, don’t panic! Simply chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm up the dough, making it easier to scoop and bake without spreading too much in the oven.

Are there any dietary considerations for Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?
Yes, there are! For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily make these cookies vegan by substituting the egg with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). Additionally, opt for gluten-free flour if you need a gluten-free option. Always double-check your chocolate and peppermint chips to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Can I adjust the flavor of my Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?
Very much so! Feel free to get creative with your flavors. For a deeper chocolate taste, you can add a pinch of espresso powder to the dough. Alternatively, swap half of the chocolate chips with white chocolate chips for a delightful contrast. I often make variations for the holidays by adding crushed candy canes on top for an extra festive touch!

Enjoy experimenting with your cookies!