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