Name: Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies for Festive Joy
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Softened); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar; 2 large Eggs (Can substitute with flax egg for vegan option); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (Essential for flavor); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can use gluten-free flour); 3/4 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Ensure freshness); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Ensure freshness); 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips (Can substitute with dark or milk chocolate chips); 1/2 cup Crushed Peppermint Candies (Can substitute with crushed Oreo)

As the holiday season approaches, the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies fills the air, instantly lifting the spirits of everyone around. Enter my Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, a delightful blend of rich cocoa and silky chocolate chips, elevated with an invigorating hint of peppermint. Not only are these cookies easy to whip up with staple ingredients, but they’re also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings joy to any gathering. Imagine indulging in a soft, chewy center with slightly crisp edges while sharing laughter and stories with loved ones. Perfect for cozy nights in or festive get-togethers, these cookies invite you to embrace the holiday spirit. Curious how to make this seasonal favorite your own? Let’s dive in!

Why are these cookies a holiday must?

Easily Adaptable: With simple tweaks, you can turn these cookies into your own signature treat; try swapping crushed peppermint for toffee bits or adding nuts for extra crunch!

Indulgent Chocolate Delight: Every bite bursts with rich cocoa and gooey chocolate, striking the perfect balance between sweetness and freshness.

Quick and Simple: Made from pantry staples, these Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies can be whipped up in no time. Perfect for unexpected guests or holiday parties!

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Friends and family will rave about the soft and chewy texture, paired with festive peppermint; they’re sure to disappear fast!

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of cocoa for the ultimate cozy experience, or try making them alongside Brownie Mix Cookies for a delightful dessert spread!

Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture to the cookies. Substitute with margarine or coconut oil for dairy-free options.
Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and volume. No direct substitution recommended for texture.
Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a slight caramel flavor. Can be replaced with dark brown sugar for a deeper taste.
Eggs – Bind the ingredients and add moisture. Use a flax egg as a vegan alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor. Leave out for an unflavored version, though it may affect the final taste.
Peppermint Extract – Provides holiday spirit and freshness; essential for those delightful Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies!
All-Purpose Flour – The main structure ingredient. Gluten-free all-purpose flour can be used for a gluten-free version.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Contributes chocolate flavor. Can replace with Dutch-processed cocoa for a milder taste.
Baking Soda and Baking Powder – Leavening agents to help cookies rise; ensure they are fresh for best results.
Salt – Enhances the flavors; essential for balancing sweetness.

For the Mix-ins

Semi-sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds delicious chocolate chunks. Substitute with dark or milk chocolate chips based on preference.
Crushed Peppermint Candies – Provides a festive crunch and flavor; can be replaced with crushed Oreo for a different flavor profile.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper—you want a smooth surface that prevents sticking. This ensures your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies will slide right off post-baking, preserving their delightful shape and texture.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air for a tender, chewy cookie, creating the perfect base for your cookies.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts
Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in both vanilla and peppermint extracts until well combined. The addition of peppermint extract brings that festive flair to your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, capturing the essence of holiday baking.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly blended. This step ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, preventing any clumps. Once mixed, gradually add this dry blend to the wet ingredients, folding gently to maintain the cookie’s light texture.

Step 5: Mix in Chocolate Chips and Peppermint
Now, it’s time to elevate the cookie dough! Gently fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies until evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The chocolate chips create gooey pockets of chocolate, while the crushed peppermint adds a refreshing crunch that makes these cookies truly special.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or two tablespoons, scoop out portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing each scoop about 2 inches apart. Make sure the dough is rounded for a nice shape. The cookies will spread slightly while baking—this allows for the perfect chewy center!

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Pop the baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 9-11 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are set, but the centers still appear soft. Keep a close eye as they bake, as they’ll continue to firm up while cooling, ensuring a soft bite to these Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows them to firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Feel free to decorate with a drizzle of melted chocolate or additional crushed peppermint for that extra festive touch!

Make Ahead Options

These Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are an excellent choice for busy home cooks looking to simplify holiday baking! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. For added convenience, you can also scoop the dough portions onto baking sheets and freeze them for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, just transfer the frozen dough directly to the oven—no thawing required! By prepping ahead, you’ll ensure their taste and texture remain just as delightful and fresh when baked, making it easy to enjoy warm, festive cookies with minimal last-minute effort.

How to Store and Freeze Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cooked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them soft and fresh for your delight.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookie dough in individual scooped balls for up to 3 months. Thaw and bake directly, making last-minute treats easy!

Reheating: If cookies lose their softness after a few days, gently warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This brings back that freshly baked feel.

Cookie Storage: For the best flavor, keep double chocolate peppermint cookies wrapped tightly to prevent them from drying out or absorbing other flavors from the fridge or pantry.

Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delicious cookies! Each twist adds a delightful new layer of flavor for your holiday baking.

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with margarine or coconut oil for a delightful dairy-free version.
This swap keeps the moisture intact while making it suitable for those avoiding dairy.
Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
These nuts meld beautifully with the chocolate and peppermint, enhancing the overall texture.
Gourmet Chocolate: Use a combination of milk, dark, and white chocolate chips for a rich assortment.
This tri-chocolate blend creates an indulgent experience with each delightful bite.
Candy Swap: Replace crushed peppermint with toffee bits or crushed Oreos for a unique flavor.
These swaps will transform the cookie into exciting new varieties, each with its own delightful twist.
Gluten-Free: Opt for a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix to cater to gluten-sensitive friends.
The taste and texture will still shine, proving that everyone can enjoy holiday treats together.
Minty Freshness: Add a few drops of additional peppermint extract if you desire a stronger mint flavor.
It intensifies the holiday spirit, making every bite a refreshing treat to indulge in.
Zesty Addition: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange zest for a citrusy twist that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
The bright notes of orange juxtaposed with the rich chocolate make a delightful and unexpected flavor combination.
Cocoa Variations: Replace unsweetened cocoa powder with Dutch-processed cocoa for a different chocolate experience.
This variation offers a milder and smoother chocolate taste, perfect for those seeking a subtle difference.

Pair these festive cookies with a steaming cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy treat or serve them alongside the irresistible Brownie Mix Cookies to impress your guests at any holiday gathering!

Expert Tips for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Fluffy Base: Beat the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. This is key for achieving that delightful chewy texture in your cookies.

Avoid Overmixing: Once you combine the dry ingredients, mix gently to prevent tough cookies. Stop as soon as you see no flour; a bit of lumpiness is okay!

Chill for Thickness: If you want thicker cookies, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape while baking, resulting in perfect Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.

Watch the Baking Time: Remove cookies from the oven while they are still slightly soft in the center. This allows them to firm up perfectly as they cool, keeping that ideal chewy consistency.

Mix-Ins Alert: Feel free to customize with your favorite chocolate chips or add a splash of peppermint extract for extra festive flavor. Tailor your cookies while still enjoying the classic base!

What to Serve with Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

As you revel in the sweet joy of baking, consider these delightful pairings to create a complete festive experience for your family and friends.

Hot Cocoa: A classic pairing, this rich, creamy beverage enhances the chocolatey goodness of your cookies while the warmth is oh-so-cozy.
Peppermint Ice Cream: The cool, creamy flavors of peppermint ice cream perfectly balance the warm cookies, creating a delightful contrast that’ll leave everyone smiling.
Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee complement the sweetness of the cookies, adding depth to your dessert and making it perfect for gatherings.
Chocolate Dipped Fruit: Fresh strawberries or bananas drizzled in chocolate add a fresh element, making for a perfect bite alongside the indulgent cookies.
Milk: A chilled glass of milk enhances the nostalgic experience of enjoying cookies, softening their rich chocolate flavors for a comforting treat.
Gingerbread Latte: The seasonal spices in a gingerbread latte enhance the festive spirit, making it a charming accompaniment to your cookie platter.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that beautifully contrasts with the chewy cookies, making each mouthful even more delightful.
Festive Cheesecake: A slice of peppermint cheesecake can elevate your dessert table, adding a creamy, festive touch that complements the cookies delightfully.

These pairings not only enhance your holiday mood but also create a memorable experience filled with laughter and warmth around the table.

Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my peppermint extract is still good?
Peppermint extract generally lasts a long time, but if you notice it has lost its strong aroma or has changed color, it might be best to replace it. Always store it in a cool, dark place to prolong its freshness.

How should I store Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?
Absolutely! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them soft and ready to munch. If you want to save them for a longer time, consider wrapping them individually and freezing for up to 3 months!

Can I freeze the dough for later use?
Yes, you can! To freeze the dough, scoop it into tablespoon-sized portions and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until firm. Then transfer the frozen dough balls into a zip-top bag, ensuring to label them with the date. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and bake as usual!

What if my cookies come out too hard?
If your cookies turn out hard, it’s likely due to overmixing the dough or overbaking. Always mix the dry and wet ingredients just until combined, and keep an eye on the baking time; just because they look done doesn’t mean they should be left in the oven for too long! They should be soft in the center when you remove them.

Are these cookies safe for pets?
No, it’s best to avoid giving your furry friends any cookies that contain chocolate or peppermint extract, as both can be harmful to pets. Stick to pet-safe treats to keep those tails wagging!