There’s something magical about peppermint hot chocolate cookies—the way they blend rich chocolate, cool peppermint, and soft, chewy perfection into every bite. Through the fireplace fireplace you’ll have a relaxing moment to enjoy a hot cocoa cup with holiday-flavored cookies.
These attractive holiday delights require minimal effort to prepare. By combining cocoa powder together with both chocolate chips and crushed peppermint you can bake delightful soft-baked cookies that no one can resist. The quick simplicity of this recipe will establish itself as a yearly holiday classic during either seasonal events or any time you want a winter-inspired dessert.
The following recipe will guide you through delicious chocolate peppermint cooking while your kitchen absorbs festive scents of these two flavors.
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Key Benefits of Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
There’s a reason peppermint hot chocolate cookies are a must-have during the holiday season. These cookies manage to hold onto winter nostalgia through their flavor along with their mix of chocolate richness and peppermint refreshment and perfect chewy consistency. Here’s why you’ll love them:
These cookies deliver festive and flavorful taste through their cocoa powder with chocolate chips and crushed peppermint mix that brings out perfect holiday power.
The combination of butter and sugar together with baking soda results in cookies that achieve perfect chewy and soft texture.
Few Ingredients and Basic Kitchen Skills Suffice to Make These Cookies in Less Time Than it Takes to Notice Their Disappearance!
Holiday tins and cookie boxes serve as ideal containers for gifting these homemade cookies which every person will appreciate.
You can modify the cookies according to your preferences. The addition of white chocolate chips paired with melted chocolate drizzle and crushed candy canes on top will give your cookies a truly festive appearance.
The cookies provide more than just sweetness since they establish themselves as important holiday tradition. Now, let’s get baking!
Ingredients for Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
Every baker needs to collect their necessary ingredients before beginning the baking process. These peppermint hot chocolate cookies use simple pantry staples, with a few festive additions to bring out that classic holiday flavor.
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour – The foundation for soft, chewy cookies.
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and stay soft.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Gives the cookies a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- ½ cup brown sugar – Adds moisture and a deep caramel-like sweetness.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – Helps create a slightly crisp edge.
- 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together for the perfect consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the chocolate flavor.
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract – Gives that signature cool, refreshing minty taste.
Mix-ins & Toppings:
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – For melty chocolate goodness in every bite.
- ¼ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes – Adds festive crunch and extra peppermint flavor.
- Optional: Extra chocolate drizzle – For a decorative, bakery-style finish.
Now that you have everything ready, let’s move on to the fun part—baking these delicious cookies!
How to Make Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
Let’s get baking! The process to create soft chewy peppermint hot chocolate cookies consists of the steps below.
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure an even bake.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ¼ cups of flour, ¼ cup of cocoa powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. This will make sure your dry ingredients are evenly combined before mixing them into the wet ones.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a separate large bowl, beat together ½ cup of softened butter, ½ cup of brown sugar, and ¼ cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Add 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract, and continue to mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until the dough just comes together. Be sure not to overmix—it’s key to maintaining that soft texture.
Step 5: Add Chocolate & Peppermint
Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips and ¼ cup of crushed peppermint candies. The combination of smooth chocolate and crunchy peppermint adds a delightful festive twist to each cookie.
Step 6: Scoop & Shape the Dough
Scoop out portions of dough using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, and place them onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each one to allow for spreading.
Step 7: Bake & Cool
Place the cookies in the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. The edges should be firm, and the centers will still appear soft. Once done, allow the cookies to sit on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips and Variations
To help you get the most out of your peppermint hot chocolate cookies, here are some expert tips and creative variations to try. Whether you want to make them even more festive or adapt the recipe to your preferences, these ideas will take your baking to the next level!
Pro Tips for Perfect Cookies
- Chill the Dough: If you have extra time, let the dough rest in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents excessive spreading during baking.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smoother dough and more even baking, make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature before mixing them into the dough.
- Check for Doneness: Since these cookies are soft in the center, they may look a bit underdone when they come out of the oven. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to set before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Fresh Peppermint: For an extra burst of flavor, use freshly crushed candy canes instead of store-bought peppermint candies. It gives the cookies a more authentic, minty crunch.
Creative Variations
The cookies acquire a unique twist when you combine semi-sweet chocolate with white chocolate chips.
After cookies completely cool down you can decorate them with peppermint chocolate drizzle made by melting dark and white chocolate together.
The dough gains two textures when you mix walnuts or pecans into its layers because these nuts contribute an addictive crunch to the velvety cookie base.
People who enjoy strong mint taste can enhance the peppermint extract dosage or mix in some mint chocolate chips together with regular chocolate chips.
Black and green sprinkles and edible glitter on top create a special holiday feel that works perfectly for holiday celebrations.
These pro tips and variations allow you to customize the peppermint hot chocolate cookies to suit your taste and the occasion. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions
Your peppermint hot chocolate cookies are now baked and ready to enjoy! But why stop there? These delicious treats can be elevated even further with a few serving ideas that will make them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive holiday gathering.
1. Pair with Hot Chocolate
What better way to enjoy your cookies than with a cup of rich hot chocolate? The peppermint and chocolate combo is a match made in dessert heaven. Top your hot cocoa with whipped cream, a sprinkle of crushed candy canes, or even a chocolate drizzle for an extra indulgent experience.
2. Create a Holiday Cookie Plate
These peppermint hot chocolate cookies are the perfect addition to a holiday cookie platter. Pair them with classic treats like sugar cookies, gingerbread men, or chocolate chip cookies to create a festive, well-rounded spread.
3. Gift Them
These cookies make wonderful gifts for friends and family, especially during the holiday season. Place them in a cute tin or box, add a festive ribbon, and you have a perfect homemade gift. Whether for a neighbor, coworker, or teacher, homemade treats are always appreciated!
4. Serve as a Dessert Buffet Treat
For your next dinner party, serve these cookies as part of a dessert buffet. You can even serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or peppermint ice cream for a cool and creamy contrast to the warm, soft cookie.
5. Enjoy with a Cup of Tea
Looking for a lighter pairing? These cookies also go beautifully with a cup of peppermint tea or chai tea. The minty flavor of the cookies pairs wonderfully with the aromatic spices in the tea.
These peppermint hot chocolate cookies are incredibly versatile and can easily be customized to suit your serving style. Whether you’re enjoying them alone, sharing with friends, or gifting them, they’re guaranteed to bring warmth and joy to any occasion!
Conclusion
Your peppermint hot chocolate cookies are now complete, and I hope you’re as excited to share them as I am! The festive dessert brings together hanging winter flavors that blend soft chocolate with tangy peppermint and a chewy texture which makes it challenging to stay away. Preparing these warm peppermint hot chocolate cookies serves two functions: it creates excellent food gifts and it provides the perfect tasty indulgence.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
The blend of chocolate with peppermint delivers a smooth transitions of flavors which results in an enjoyable holiday experience.
Anyone can prepare these cookies since their straightforward ingredients and easy making process permits simple preparation.
The cookies allow for personal modifications because you can adjust the amount of mint and decorate them through chocolate drizzle or sprinkles to match your favorite preferences.
During the holidays baking a memorable treat becomes essential and these particular cookies will undoubtedly win the hearts of everyone who tries them. If you haven’t tried them yet, now’s the time to get your ingredients and bake up a batch of these peppermint hot chocolate cookies that will bring warmth and joy to any occasion!
For more information about peppermint, its history, and uses, visit the Wikipedia page on Peppermint.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour – The foundation for soft chewy cookies.
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and stay soft.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened – Gives the cookies a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- ½ cup brown sugar – Adds moisture and a deep caramel-like sweetness.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – Helps create a slightly crisp edge.
- 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together for the perfect consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the chocolate flavor.
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract – Gives that signature cool refreshing minty taste.
Mix-ins & Toppings:
- ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – For melty chocolate goodness in every bite.
- ¼ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes – Adds festive crunch and extra peppermint flavor.
- Optional: Extra chocolate drizzle – For a decorative bakery-style finish.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure an even bake.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ¼ cups of flour, ¼ cup of cocoa powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. This will make sure your dry ingredients are evenly combined before mixing them into the wet ones.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar
- In a separate large bowl, beat together ½ cup of softened butter, ½ cup of brown sugar, and ¼ cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is fluffy and light. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Add 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract, and continue to mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until the dough just comes together. Be sure not to overmix—it’s key to maintaining that soft texture.
Step 5: Add Chocolate & Peppermint
- Stir in ½ cup of chocolate chips and ¼ cup of crushed peppermint candies. The combination of smooth chocolate and crunchy peppermint adds a delightful festive twist to each cookie.
Step 6: Scoop & Shape the Dough
- Scoop out portions of dough using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, and place them onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each one to allow for spreading.
Step 7: Bake & Cool
- Place the cookies in the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. The edges should be firm, and the centers will still appear soft. Once done, allow the cookies to sit on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Video
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Calories: 180 per cookie
FAQs About Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies
1. What makes peppermint hot chocolate cookies so special?
Peppermint hot chocolate cookies are the perfect holiday treat, blending rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint for a deliciously festive flavor. The combination of these two ingredients creates a cookie that is not only irresistible but also soft and chewy, offering a delightful contrast of textures.
2. Can I make peppermint hot chocolate cookies in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking. Chilling the dough gives the ingredients time to meld together, making it easier to work with and enhancing the flavor.
3. How should I store peppermint hot chocolate cookies?
Keep your peppermint hot chocolate cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
4. Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate in the recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer a richer flavor, swap the milk chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips. The bolder taste of dark chocolate pairs wonderfully with peppermint, creating a deeper, more intense flavor profile.
5. How do I get my peppermint hot chocolate cookies to stay soft?
The key to soft and chewy cookies is to avoid overbaking them. Remove the cookies from the oven when the edges are set but the centers are still slightly soft. This ensures they remain moist and tender after cooling.
6. Can I add other mix-ins to the cookies?
Yes! Peppermint hot chocolate cookies are versatile. Try adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, or mix in mini marshmallows for extra texture and flavor.
7. What’s the best way to serve peppermint hot chocolate cookies?
These cookies pair perfectly with a warm cup of hot chocolate or peppermint tea. They also make a great addition to a holiday cookie platter or can be packaged as a festive homemade gift.
8. Can I use peppermint extract instead of crushed peppermint candies?
Yes, you can replace crushed peppermint candies with peppermint extract. Use about one teaspoon of extract to infuse the dough with a minty flavor. This is a great alternative if you don’t have candy canes on hand.
9. How do I make my peppermint hot chocolate cookies more festive?
To add a decorative touch, drizzle the cookies with melted chocolate or sprinkle them with crushed peppermint before baking. You can also top them with holiday-themed sprinkles for extra flair.
10. Are peppermint hot chocolate cookies gluten-free?
Traditional peppermint hot chocolate cookies contain flour, but you can easily make them gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, including chocolate chips and peppermint candies, are certified gluten-free.
These answers will help guide you through the process of baking and enjoying your peppermint hot chocolate cookies. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, they’re sure to be a hit!
Explore More Delicious Chocolate Recipes
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