Name: Decadent Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies for the Holidays
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 98 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour (spoon and level for precision); 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (adds intense chocolate flavor); 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (acts as a leavening agent); 1/4 teaspoon salt (enhances flavor); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened) (make sure it’s softened); 1/2 cup granulated sugar (contributes sweetness); 1/2 cup light brown sugar (adds moisture); 1 large egg (binds the dough); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (opt for real extract); 1 cup vanilla candy coating (or white chocolate chips) (for dipping); 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract (infuses the minty flavor); 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (adds crunch and festive look); 1 cup chocolate chips (for pockets of melted chocolate); 1/4 cup additional crushed candy canes (for extra festive crunch); 1/4 cup sprinkles (adds fun festive flair)

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As the holiday season approaches, there’s something undeniably enchanting about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. Nestled within that bliss are my beloved Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, a festive treat that perfectly marries rich chocolate with a refreshing minty twist. These cookies are wonderfully easy to whip up, making them an ideal choice for holiday gatherings or cozy family baking sessions. With their soft, chewy centers and a delightful crunch from crushed candy canes on top, they’re sure to impress friends and loved ones alike. And the best part? You can make the dough ahead of time and freeze it, so you’re ready for impromptu celebrations. Curious to discover how these indulgent cookies come together? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are these cookies a must-make?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of rich cocoa and refreshing peppermint creates a festive treat that’s perfect for any holiday gathering.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll have these delicious cookies ready in no time.
Crowd Favorite: They’re a hit at cookie exchanges and family gatherings, sure to please everyone from kids to adults.
Make-Ahead Convenience: The dough can be prepared and frozen, allowing for stress-free baking, whether it’s a planned party or an unexpected get-together.
Textural Delight: These cookies boast a fudgy interior complemented by a delightful crunch from the candy cane topping, making each bite a joyful experience.
Pair them with a warm cup of Pink Hot Chocolate for an ultimate festive treat!

Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies

All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cookies; spoon and level for precision.
Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds intense chocolate flavor, ensuring a rich taste.
Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookies rise perfectly.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies.
Unsalted butter (softened) – Gives richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Granulated sugar – Contributes sweetness and chewy texture to the cookies.
Light brown sugar – Adds moisture and a slight caramel flavor for depth.
Large eggs – Binds the ingredients together for a cohesive dough.
Pure vanilla extract – Enhances flavor depth; opt for real extract for the best results.
Vanilla candy coating (or white chocolate chips) – Perfect for dipping; adds sweetness and creaminess.
Pure peppermint extract – Infuses the essential minty flavor perfect for these festive cookies.
Crushed candy canes – Provides a delightful crunch and holiday aesthetic; buy pre-crushed for convenience.
Chocolate chips – Adds pockets of melted chocolate for extra indulgence and richness.

Optional Toppings

Additional crushed candy canes – For an extra festive crunch on top of your cookies.
Sprinkles – Colorful sprinkles can add a fun, festive flair to the cookies for holiday gatherings.

These Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are bound to be the star of any holiday dessert table. Happy baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies bake evenly. Prepare to line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. This dry mixture will provide the rich chocolate flavor and structure to your cookies, so make sure it’s well-combined.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of light brown sugar. Beat for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This stage is crucial for a chewy texture and richness in your cookies.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until fully incorporated, allowing the mixture to become smooth and creamy. The egg and vanilla will contribute to the wonderful flavor of your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.

Step 5: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients using a spatula. Fold gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix. This ensures that your cookies remain tender and soft, enhancing their mouthwatering texture.

Step 6: Incorporate Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the dough. This addition will create delightful pockets of melted chocolate in every bite, taking your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies to the next level of indulgence.

Step 7: Chill the Dough
Wrap the cookie dough in parchment paper and shape it into a disk. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up the dough. Chilling is essential for better texture and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

Step 8: Scoop the Cookies
Using a heaping tablespoon, scoop the chilled dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows room for spreading during baking. The dough should create uniform mounds, ready to transform into delicious cookies.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Bake in your preheated oven for about 8 minutes, or until the tops look just set but not fully baked. The cookies will continue to cook a bit after being removed, so it’s important to avoid overbaking to maintain their chewy center.

Step 10: Cool and Prepare for Toppings
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This process helps them maintain their soft, fudgy interior while still developing that delightful cookie exterior.

Step 11: Dip in Candy Coating
While the cookies are cooling, melt 1 cup of vanilla candy coating in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring every 30 seconds. Once smooth, dip the tops of the cooled cookies in the melted coating, allowing excess to drip off.

Step 12: Finish with Candy Canes
After dipping in the candy coating, immediately sprinkle the tops with crushed candy canes to give your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies that festive crunch and beautiful holiday flair. Allow the coating to set before serving.

Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these cookies and make them your own as you embrace the holiday spirit!

Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and replace the chocolate chips with dairy-free options for a delicious vegan treat.
Nutty Twist: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and extra flavor. The nuts complement the chocolate perfectly, adding depth to each bite.
Orange Zest: Swap peppermint extract for orange extract and add zest from one orange for a fresh, citrusy twist. This bright flavor will surprise your taste buds!
Spicy Heat: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a warming touch that pairs surprisingly well with chocolate and mint. This subtle kick adds complexity, perfect for adventurous palates.
Graham Cracker Crust: Instead of topping with candy canes, mix some crushed graham crackers into the dough for an additional cookie texture that reminds you of s’mores. The flavors will blend beautifully with the chocolate.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy. Just ensure your baking soda and chocolate chips are also gluten-free.
Chocolate Drizzle: Enhance the indulgence by drizzling melted dark chocolate over the cooled cookies for an even richer chocolate experience. It adds a touch of elegance to your holiday platter.
Minty Filling: If you’re a mint lover, mix in some mint chocolate chips or peppermint patty chunks into the dough for even more minty goodness!

For delightful variations, consider trying my other recipes like Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars or indulge in some Chocolate Peanut Butter goodness for a different approach!

Make Ahead Options

These Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked goodness with minimal effort during busy holiday weeks! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by wrapping it tightly in parchment paper and refrigerating. For even longer storage, freeze the dough for up to 2 months; simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. This ensures the cookies maintain their delicious texture and flavor. When you’re ready to bake, scoop and shape the chilled or thawed dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, and follow the baking instructions as usual for warm, festive cookies that taste just as delectable as if they were made fresh!

Expert Tips for the Best Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Use Real Extracts: Always opt for pure vanilla and peppermint extracts instead of imitation varieties for the most authentic flavor in your cookies.
Proper Butter Softening: Make sure your butter is perfectly softened, not melted, for even mixing and a chewy texture. Leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your cookies, as they should look slightly underdone when you pull them out. They’ll continue to bake on the sheet as they cool.
Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! Chilling the dough helps control the spread and ensures a thicker, fudgy cookie.
Experiment with Variations: Feel free to switch up the chocolate chips or toppings. Dark chocolate chips or a sprinkle of sea salt can offer exciting twists to your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.

What to Serve with Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

As you savor the rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint of these festive cookies, consider these delightful pairings to complete your holiday spread.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: This warm, velvety drink enhances the chocolate experience, adding an extra layer of indulgence to your cookie enjoyment.
Peppermint Bark: A festive treat that echoes the minty essence of your cookies, offering a delightful crunch that balances beautifully.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast against the rich cookies, cleansing the palate in the most delightful way.
Spiced Apple Cider: Heated with warm spices, this drink invites cozy winter vibes and pairs wonderfully with the chocolate flavor to create a comforting indulgence.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a silky texture that complements the chewy cookies and melted chocolate within.
Holiday Cookie Platter: Combine your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies with various festive cookies for a stunning dessert table that caters to every taste.
Chocolate Mint Milkshake: Blended with ice cream and a touch of peppermint, this shake turns your dessert into an enjoyable experience of rich flavors and cool sensations.
Christmas Tea: A warm cup of spiced or herbal tea perfectly balances the sweetness and adds a calming element to your dessert time.
Chocolate Mint Cheesecake: For a decadent finale, serve a slice of this rich cheesecake that amplifies both chocolate and peppermint flavors, leaving your guests in awe.

Storage Tips for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.

Fridge: If desired, you can refrigerate for up to 5 days, but be aware that the texture might slightly change. Ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent drying out.

Freezer: Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper, for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy cookies after freezing, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes for that freshly baked taste.

Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for these cookies?
You should use all-purpose flour for your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies as it provides the perfect structure. Remember to spoon and level the flour for accurate measurements, which will ensure your cookies bake perfectly every time!

How should I store left-over cookies?
For best freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days, but this may slightly alter the texture. Just make sure they’re well-wrapped to prevent drying out!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough for up to 2 months. Simply wrap it tightly in parchment paper, then place it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to bake, just thaw the dough in the fridge overnight before shaping and baking your cookies!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find that your cookies spread too much, it could be due to warm dough or not enough chilling time. To avoid this, make sure to chill the dough for at least 1 hour before baking. Additionally, ensure your butter is softened but not melted for the right consistency.

Are these cookies safe for pets or people with allergies?
These Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies contain common allergens like flour, eggs, butter, and soy (from chocolate). If you’re making them for someone with allergies or pets in the house, please take care to check all ingredients. It’s wise to keep them away from pets, particularly chocolate, which is toxic to dogs and cats.