There’s something magical about the first scent of Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies drifting through the house on a chilly December afternoon. For many of us, that aroma—rich chocolate mingling with the cool, sweet hint of peppermint—instantly signals the start of the holiday season. Every year, my family gathers around the kitchen counter, dusted with flour and laughter, as we begin our favorite winter tradition: baking a batch of Holiday Cookies Peppermint style.
The recipe for these Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies started as a small experiment years ago, when I combined my love for hot cocoa and candy canes into a single, simple dessert. The first bite was pure delight—soft, chewy, and melting with chocolate goodness balanced by the sparkle of peppermint. From that day forward, these Chocolate Peppermint Cookies became more than just a bake; they became a symbol of togetherness.
Each year since, the same scene repeats: the hum of festive music in the background, the glow of twinkle lights, and the rhythmic tapping of peppermint candy being crushed into tiny red-and-white jewels. The kitchen fills with that irresistible scent while trays of Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies cool by the window, waiting to be shared with neighbors, friends, and family. They’ve become the centerpiece of our dessert table—a simple, loving reminder that the best holiday traditions often begin in the kitchen, one cookie at a time.
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Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies & Brownie Bites
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Fudgy, chewy chocolate cookies infused with peppermint and studded with melty chocolate chips and crushed candy canes. Perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting, these cookies combine the best of brownies and classic holiday flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper
2. In a bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until light and fluffy
3. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and peppermint extracts until smooth
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt
5. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined
6. Stir in chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies gently
7. Chill the dough for 30 minutes if desired for thicker cookies
8. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto prepared sheets about 2 inches apart
9. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes until edges are set and centers appear slightly soft
10. Allow cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12
- Sodium: 75
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Unsaturated Fat: 3
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 2
- Cholesterol: 30
Keywords: easy chocolate peppermint cookies, holiday cookies peppermint, peppermint brownie cookies, peppermint mocha cookies, chocolate peppermint cookies, peppermint brownie cookie recipe, holiday treats
Why You’ll Love These Cookies and Brownie Bites
What makes these cookies so special? It’s all in the texture and flavor. Each bite blends the indulgent chewiness of a brownie with the crisp edge of a perfect cookie. Imagine that fudgy richness topped with a refreshing crunch of crushed peppermint—pure holiday joy in one bite! That’s what makes this Peppermint Brownie Cookie Recipe such a crowd favorite.
These cookies are incredibly versatile, too. You can make them as delightful little Peppermint Brownie Cookies for gifting, or transform them into festive Peppermint Mocha Cookies by adding a hint of espresso powder to the batter. They pair like a dream with a warm mug of cocoa, coffee, or peppermint tea—whatever your favorite holiday drink might be.
Beyond their taste, you’ll love how truly easy they are to make. With simple pantry ingredients, one mixing bowl, and a dash of holiday spirit, these Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies come together fast but look like they came straight from a bakery. No complicated steps, no stress—just pure, homemade goodness ready to share at every gathering.
So, whether you’re baking for a cookie exchange, surprising your coworkers, or filling your home with that irresistible scent of chocolate and peppermint, these Peppermint Brownie Cookies promise to bring comfort, cheer, and a touch of sparkle to your holiday celebrations.
Inside the Kitchen – Ingredients, Tools & Preparation
Gather Your Ingredients for Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Before the holiday magic begins, it’s time to set up your baking station with everything you need for these Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. Part of what makes this recipe so approachable is its simplicity—you’ll likely have most of these ingredients already in your pantry.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes & Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | ¾ cup (softened) | Provides richness and chewiness. Substitute plant-based butter for dairy-free. |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup | Balances the cocoa’s bitterness and helps with crisp edges. |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup (packed) | Adds moisture and enhances the brownie-like texture. |
| Eggs | 2 large | Acts as a binder and gives structure to the dough. |
| Pure vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Adds warmth to intensify the chocolate flavor. |
| Peppermint extract | 1 tsp | The key to that signature Holiday Cookies Peppermint aroma. Use sparingly; it’s potent. |
| All-purpose flour | 1 ¼ cups | Keeps cookies tender; substitute 1:1 gluten-free flour if needed. |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | ¾ cup | The heart of these Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies—choose high-quality cocoa for best results. |
| Baking soda | ½ tsp | Helps with rise and ensures soft centers. |
| Salt | ¼ tsp | Balances sweetness and enhances flavors. |
| Chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark) | 1 cup | Melty pockets of chocolate in every bite. Replace with dairy-free chocolate if desired. |
| Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes | ½ cup | Adds crunch and festive touch. |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make cookies that taste bakery-quality but take only minutes to prepare. The combination of butter, cocoa, and peppermint extract creates that unbeatable aroma that feels like winter in every batch.
If you’re making a vegan or gluten-free version, substitute eggs with flaxseed “eggs” and use dairy-free chocolate chips. The dough texture will remain thick and scoopable, giving you the same chewy, fudgy finish these Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are loved for.
Step-by-Step Preparation for Perfect Results
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter with both granulated and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy. This step adds air into the dough, giving your cookies soft centers and a light bite.
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
Blend in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla and peppermint extract. The mixture should be glossy and slightly thick—this is where that delightful peppermint essence starts to shine.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing for that brownie-like texture.
Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Peppermint Pieces
Gently stir in chocolate chips and crushed candy canes. The candies melt slightly in the oven, creating those sweet peppermint bursts that make this Peppermint Brownie Cookie Recipe unforgettable.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to produce thicker, chewier cookies that hold their shape.
Step 6: Scoop and Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and bake 9–11 minutes, until edges set but centers stay slightly soft.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let cookies cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving to a rack. Crushed peppermint sets into a glossy finish, turning each into a little holiday gem.
- Bake 1 minute less for extra fudgy centers.
- Top with more crushed candy right from the oven for extra sparkle.
- Freeze dough balls up to three months for quick Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies anytime.
Decorating, Serving & Storing Your Holiday Cookies
Decorating with Peppermint Flair
Once your Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies have cooled, it’s time to give them a festive finish. Decorating these Holiday Cookies Peppermint is simple, fun, and instantly transforms them into holiday delights. Melt dark, milk, or white chocolate and drizzle across each cookie before topping with crushed candy canes for that sparkling effect.
For an elegant touch, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and coat the edge in crushed peppermint bits. Let them firm on parchment—the contrast of smooth chocolate and crystal peppermint looks stunning on a dessert table.
Presentation matters too! Stack cookies in tins lined with parchment or fill jars with red ribbons. Include a little printed recipe card so friends can bake their own version of your Holiday Cookies Peppermint. Whether served or gifted, these treats spread warmth long after baking day.
Serving & Storing for Fresh Flavor
Pair your freshly baked Peppermint Mocha Cookies with hot cocoa or a strong cup of coffee for the ultimate holiday café moment. Layer them with shortbread and gingerbread on dessert platters to create a vibrant selection that draws every eye.
Serve Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies warm, stacked near a beverage station at festive gatherings—the aroma of chocolate and peppermint makes them irresistible. When storing, keep them in airtight containers at room temperature for up to five days or freeze the dough for future baking.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 4–5 days | Include a slice of bread to maintain softness |
| Refrigerator | 1 week | Keeps them chewy and fresh before gifting |
| Freezer (Baked Cookies) | 2 months | Thaw at room temp before serving |
| Frozen Dough Balls | 3 months | Bake frozen adding 1–2 extra minutes |
These methods ensure every Peppermint Mocha Cookie remains soft, aromatic, and party-ready whenever you need them. With little effort, your Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies stay delightful long after the last carol fades.
FAQs and Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use peppermint oil instead of extract?
Yes, but peppermint oil is stronger. Use only ¼ teaspoon oil for every teaspoon extract in your Peppermint Brownie Cookie Recipe.
2. How do I make these cookies more fudgy?
Slightly underbake by one minute and avoid overmixing. Add a few tablespoons of melted chocolate for richer Peppermint Brownie Cookies.
3. What’s the best way to crush candy canes without mess?
Seal them in a zip bag and roll gently or pulse a few times in a food processor for even bits without sticky dust. Perfect for blending into Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.
4. Can I make these ahead for gifting?
Yes! Chill dough up to a week or freeze for months. Bake and cool before packaging for soft, fresh Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies every time.
5. How can I make these Holiday Cookies Peppermint without chocolate chips?
Swap them with white chocolate or extra crushed candy. You’ll still enjoy that distinct minty sparkle.
Conclusion – Bringing Joy to the Holiday Table
Every batch of Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies & Brownie Bites tells a story of warmth, comfort, and sweet celebration. The blend of rich cocoa and cooling peppermint captures the spirit of the season in a single delicious bite.
More than just Holiday Cookies Peppermint, they’re tokens of love—perfect for sharing with family and friends. Pair them with cocoa for those cozy Peppermint Mocha Cookie moments or present them in tins for gifts that make hearts smile.
Year after year, these cookies become the tradition everyone looks forward to. So preheat the oven, crush a few candy canes, and let that unmistakable holiday aroma fill your home. Easy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies & Brownie Bites aren’t just desserts—they’re the essence of holiday joy baked to perfection.
