There’s something magical about the combination of chocolate and peppermint. It’s the flavor duo that defines the holiday season — comforting, cool, and completely irresistible.
When the weather turns cold and the lights start twinkling, nothing feels better than a kitchen filled with the scent of freshly baked Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.
These cookies are everything you want in a winter dessert — rich and chocolatey with that cool, refreshing burst of peppermint that makes each bite feel like Christmas.
Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, a cookie exchange, or simply treating yourself with a cup of hot cocoa by the fire, these cookies deliver pure joy in every bite.
In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know:
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The perfect recipe for soft, chewy, chocolate peppermint cookies.
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Tips and tricks for perfect texture every time.
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How to store, gift, and customize them for every occasion.
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Plus, creative variations to try if you want to mix things up.
So grab your mixing bowl, and let’s bake a little holiday magic together!
What Makes Chocolate Peppermint Cookies So Special?
These cookies combine the deep, rich flavor of cocoa with the bright, cool notes of peppermint, creating a balance that’s both comforting and refreshing.
Here’s why everyone falls in love with them:
1. The Perfect Texture
Soft in the center, slightly crisp on the edges, and dotted with bits of melted chocolate — they strike that irresistible cookie balance.
2. The Holiday Aroma
The scent of peppermint and chocolate wafting through your home instantly brings cozy, festive vibes. It’s the smell of winter comfort.
3. Simple Ingredients, Show-Stopping Results
You don’t need fancy equipment or rare ingredients. Just pantry staples and a little love.
4. They Make Beautiful Gifts
Wrapped in a festive tin or clear bag with a red ribbon, these cookies make a thoughtful homemade gift that everyone adores.
5. Customizable for Any Season
While they’re perfect for Christmas, you can tweak the toppings — think pastel peppermint for Valentine’s Day or dark chocolate drizzle for New Year’s Eve.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to create these mouthwatering cookies:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 ¾ cups | Measure accurately for perfect texture |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | ¾ cup | Use high-quality cocoa for rich flavor |
| Baking soda | 1 tsp | Helps the cookies rise slightly |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Balances the sweetness |
| Unsalted butter | ¾ cup (softened) | Room temperature for easy mixing |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | Adds sweetness and structure |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup (packed) | Adds moisture and chewiness |
| Eggs | 2 large | Bind everything together |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Enhances flavor depth |
| Peppermint extract | ½ tsp | Adjust based on how minty you like them |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | 1 cup | Melty pockets of chocolate goodness |
| Crushed candy canes | ½ cup | For the perfect peppermint crunch |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Set aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy — about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Extracts
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla and peppermint extract.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined.
Don’t overmix — you want tender cookies, not tough ones!
Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips and Candy Canes
Fold in the chocolate chips and half of the crushed candy canes.
Step 7: Scoop and Bake
Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough for each cookie and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 9–11 minutes, just until the edges are set and centers look slightly soft.
Step 8: Cool and Decorate
Let the cookies cool for 5 minutes on the sheet, then transfer to a wire rack.
While warm, sprinkle the remaining crushed candy canes or drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra festive touch!
Pro Tips for Perfect Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
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Don’t overbake!
The cookies continue baking on the sheet after you remove them. Take them out when they look slightly underdone in the center. -
Chill the dough if it’s too soft.
If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking. -
Use good cocoa powder.
High-quality cocoa (like Dutch-process) makes all the difference in richness. -
Double the peppermint extract carefully.
Peppermint can easily overpower — start small and taste the dough. -
Make them gluten-free!
Substitute 1:1 with a gluten-free baking flour mix.
How to Store and Gift Your Cookies
Storage Tips
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Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
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Freezing baked cookies: Freeze for up to 3 months in sealed bags.
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Freezing dough: Scoop portions onto a tray, freeze solid, then store in freezer bags. Bake directly from frozen with +2 minutes bake time.
Gifting Ideas
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Pack 6–8 cookies in a festive tin lined with parchment.
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Add a handwritten tag: “Made with love and peppermint magic.”
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Pair with a mug and cocoa packet for the perfect winter gift set.
Variations to Try
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Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies — Use dark cocoa powder and dark chocolate chunks.
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Peppermint Bark Cookies — Top each cookie with melted white chocolate and crushed candy cane.
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Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies — Add both chocolate chips and white chocolate chips for a creamy twist.
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Mint Chocolate Sandwich Cookies — Spread peppermint buttercream between two cookies.
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Vegan Peppermint Cookies — Swap butter for coconut oil and use flax eggs.
Pairing Ideas
Enjoy these cookies with:
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A warm mug of peppermint mocha
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A cup of hot cocoa with whipped cream
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A tall glass of cold milk
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Or crumbled over peppermint ice cream for an indulgent dessert!
Styling Tips for Pinterest-Worthy Cookie Photos
If you’re sharing these on Pinterest (and you should!), here’s how to make them shine:
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Use a white or rustic background to make the dark cookies pop.
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Sprinkle crushed candy cane around for color and texture.
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Stack 3–4 cookies with a drizzle of chocolate on top.
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Add props like a red mug, twinkle lights, or pine branches for a cozy holiday vibe.
SEO Optimization Notes
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use peppermint candies instead of candy canes?
Yes! Just crush them finely — they melt and taste the same.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. Make the dough 2 days ahead, store in the fridge, and bake when ready.
Can I skip the peppermint extract?
You can — the cookies will just taste like rich chocolate ones. For a milder mint flavor, use half the amount.
What if I don’t have a mixer?
A sturdy whisk and spoon work fine. Just ensure your butter is soft and your arm is ready for a good stir!
Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
These cookies are:
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Rich and fudgy
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Festive and beautiful
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Easy to make
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Loved by everyone
Once you bake them, you’ll understand why they become a holiday favorite year after year.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for the perfect cookie that screams holiday cheer and tastes like winter wonderland in every bite, these Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are it.
They’re simple, stunning, and unbelievably delicious.
