Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe warm scent of chocolate wafting through the kitchen feels like a cozy hug on a cold winter’s day. That’s exactly the experience you’ll create when you make these Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. With their rich, decadent flavor complemented by a refreshing hint of peppermint, these cookies are a must-have for your holiday baking repertoire. Perfectly chewy and visually stunning, they not only make the ideal treat for festive cookie exchanges but also bring joy to family gatherings and neighborly gifts. Plus, they’re incredibly simple to whip up, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time making memories. Who wouldn’t want to dive into a batch of cookies that perfectly balance indulgence and holiday cheer? Curious about how to make these delightful treats? Let’s get baking! Why are these cookies a holiday favorite? Indulgence, these Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies bring the ultimate winter delight, with a blend of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint. Appealing Texture: Enjoy a soft, chewy bite topped with a satisfying crunch from crushed candy canes. Festive Flair: Their vibrant appearance makes them the star of any holiday cookie platter. Versatile Options: Feel free to switch things up with variations like using dark chocolate chips or mixing in crushed Oreos! Easy Preparation: You can quickly whip up these cookies to delight family and friends—perfect for last-minute bake sales or cozy get-togethers.Enjoy them with a cup of hot cocoa or milk; they’re bound to win hearts during this festive season! Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Ingredients For the Cookie Dough All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure; measure accurately using the spoon and level method. Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds deep chocolate flavor without extra sweetness; again, spoon and level for best results. Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results. Salt – Enhances the cookie flavor while balancing sweetness. Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; soften to room temperature for easy mixing. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and helps create the desired texture. Light Brown Sugar – Introduces moisture and a hint of caramel; dark brown can be used for a more robust flavor. Large Eggs – Binds everything together and adds moisture. Pure Vanilla Extract – Elevates flavor; opt for pure over imitation for the best taste. Vegetable Oil – Keeps the cookies moist; you can substitute with melted melted butter if preferred. For the Peppermint Touch Pure Peppermint Extract – Delivers a fresh mint flavor; avoid using peppermint oil for this recipe. Crushed Candy Canes – Adds texture and festive flair; pre-crushed versions make for an easy option. For the Chocolate Bliss Chocolate Chips – Toss in semi-sweet for sweetness, or use dark chocolate for a richer bite. Vanilla Candy Coating – Smoothly coats your cookies offering a perfect pairing with peppermint; white chocolate chips can be substituted if desired. With each ingredient playing a vital role, these Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are not just a recipe—they’re an experience waiting to be shared with loved ones. Get ready to create holiday magic! 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 ensures it reaches the perfect temperature for baking those delightful Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. While the oven warms up, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper, which will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly will ensure that the baking soda is evenly distributed. Set this mixture aside for later use as you focus on the wet ingredients for your cookies. Step 3: Cream the Butter In a separate mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of softened unsalted butter with a hand mixer on medium speed until it becomes fluffy—this should take about 2 minutes. Creaming the butter properly creates a light texture in your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, so make sure it’s airy and pale before moving on. Step 4: Add Sugars Gradually add ½ cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of light brown sugar to the creamed butter. Continue mixing until the mixture looks smooth and well combined, which should take another minute. The sugars contribute to the sweetness and help form that perfect chewy texture that everyone loves. Step 5: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla Next, add in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until everything is fully incorporated, taking about 30 seconds. This addition will enhance the flavor of your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, making them richer and more delicious. Step 6: Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed. Be cautious not to overmix; you want the dough to come together nicely without being tough. This step should take only about 30 seconds to 1 minute; just until the flour is incorporated. Step 7: Fold in Chocolate Chips Gently fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout your dough. This is where the magic happens, as those chips will melt just slightly during baking, adding bursts of rich chocolate in every bite of your cookies. Step 8: Chill the Dough Wrap the cookie dough in parchment paper, shaping it into a disk, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling the dough is crucial—it helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and contributes to a chewy texture, perfect for your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. Step 9: Scoop the Dough Once chilled, use a cookie scoop or two tablespoons to portion out the dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking. This should yield about 12-15 cookies, depending on your scoop size. Step 10: Bake the Cookies Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the tops are set and no longer shiny. Keep an eye on them, as you don’t want to overbake; they should look slightly underbaked in the center. Once done, let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Step 11: Melt the Coating While the cookies cool, melt 1 cup of vanilla candy coating in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until it’s completely smooth and melted. This chocolatey layer will add a lovely touch to your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. Step 12: Dip and Decorate Dip one side of each cookie into the melted candy coating, allowing any excess to drip off. Place them back on the parchment-lined sheets and immediately sprinkle with crushed candy canes for that festive flair. Allow the cookies to set completely before enjoying or gifting! Expert Tips for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Quality Ingredients: Always opt for high-quality cocoa powder and pure extracts for the best flavor in your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. Avoid Overmixing: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, chewy texture you desire. Chill Well: Make sure to chill your dough for at least an hour. This helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking and contributes to that irresistible chewiness. Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they should be slightly underbaked in the center for the perfect texture. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after removing them from the oven. Decorating Tip: Dip the cookies in the melted candy coating while still warm for better adhesion, and sprinkle with crushed candy canes immediately before the coating hardens. Storage Secret: To maintain freshness, store your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies in an airtight container and consume within 5 days for the best taste. What to Serve with Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies The perfect meal is only a few thoughtful pairings away, transforming a simple cookie experience into a delightful celebration of flavors. Warm Milk: A classic choice that enhances the rich chocolate notes and provides a comforting touch. Hot Cocoa: Indulge in a cozy cup of rich cocoa for a truly decadent experience. Top it with whipped cream for extra flair! Minty Ice Cream: The cool, creamy texture and minty flavor perfectly balance the cookies’ warmth and chocolate richness. Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing contrast, brightening each bite with their tartness. Spiced Cider: A warm mug of spiced apple cider creates a festive atmosphere, complementing the peppermint perfectly. Cheesecake Bites: Rich and creamy, these bites make for a delightful pairing, especially if they have a hint of chocolate. Consider putting together a cozy dessert platter. Arrange your cookies with fresh fruits, a few decadent bites of cheesecake, and a cup of hot cocoa, inviting loved ones to indulge and savor the flavors of the season together! Make Ahead Options These Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance—simply wrap it tightly in parchment paper and refrigerate. For even longer storage, the dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just thaw the dough overnight in the refrigerator. Bake the cookies according to the recipe instructions, and they will taste just as delicious as if they were made fresh that day. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll indulge in soft, chewy cookies bursting with rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint while freeing up your precious time for holiday festivities! Storage Tips for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Room Temperature: Keep your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This will maintain their chewy texture and delicious flavor. Fridge: If you’d like to keep them a little longer, these cookies can be stored in the fridge for up to 10 days. Just make sure they are in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying! Reheating: To refresh chilled or frozen cookies, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to regain that fresh-baked softness. Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Variations Feel free to customize your double chocolate peppermint cookies with these delightful twists that will surely excite your taste buds! Minty Chocolate Surprise: Replace the standard peppermint extract with orange extract to create a refreshing twist; chocolate and citrus is a match made in heaven! Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut oil or vegan butter in place of traditional butter and swap in dark chocolate chips for a delicious dairy-free alternative. Nutty Goodness: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture. The nuts will add an irresistible richness, elevating each bite. Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne or chili powder into the dry ingredients for a warm, spicy contrast against the cool peppermint. This unexpected twist might become your new favorite! Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a tasty gluten-free version, ensuring everyone can enjoy the magic of these cookies. Chocolate Overload: Feel free to use a mix of chocolate chips, such as semi-sweet, milk, and even white chocolate for that extra layer of sweetness. It’s a chocolate lover’s dream! Candy Bark Remix: Instead of crushed candy canes, use pieces of your favorite holiday candy bar for a festive flair—think Snickers or Reese’s for a decadent surprise. Fudge-Like Texture: For an extra chewy result, add an additional egg yolk to the dough; this adds moisture and creates a rich, fudgy center that pairs beautifully with peppermint. As you dive into these variations, don’t forget to pair these cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa or some homemade Butter Toffee Chocolate for the ultimate holiday treat experience! Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe FAQs How do I select the right chocolate for my cookies? Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose high-quality chocolate chips, such as semi-sweet or dark chocolate, depending on your preference. Ensure the chocolate is fresh and has not been stored too long, as stale chocolate can affect both flavor and texture. Look for chips that have a smooth texture and rich flavor to elevate your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. How should I store my Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies? Very! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to 10 days. Just make sure they are well-sealed to prevent them from drying out. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is an excellent option! Can I freeze cookie dough for my Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies? Yes, indeed! You can freeze your unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months. Simply wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper, and place it in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. When ready to bake, thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. This allows you to enjoy fresh cookies anytime you crave a treat! What should I do if my cookies turn out too dry? If your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies end up too dry, there are a few things to check and adjust for your next batch. Ensure your measuring technique is accurate; compacting flour can lead to excess dryness. Additionally, make sure to not overbake the cookies; they should be slightly underbaked in the center when you take them out. If you find the current batch is dry, consider trying a warm mug of hot cocoa to dunk them in and rescue the flavor! Are these cookies safe for pets or those with allergies? It’s important to keep in mind that chocolate can be toxic to pets, especially dogs, so it’s best to keep your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies away from them. Additionally, be sure to check for allergies related to ingredients such as eggs, dairy, or gluten. If anyone has specific dietary needs, consider looking for substitutions, like gluten-free flour or dairy-free chocolate chips, to make a safe version for everyone to enjoy! Melt-in-Your-Mouth Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Decadent Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies that are a holiday favorite with rich chocolate flavor and a refreshing hint of peppermint. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes minsChilling Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins Servings: 12 cookiesCourse: CookiesCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Dough1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour spoon and level for best results⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder spoon and level for best results½ teaspoon baking soda ensure it’s fresh¼ teaspoon salt enhances flavor½ cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature½ cup granulated sugar for sweetness½ cup light brown sugar introduces moisture1 large egg binds the mixture together1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract opt for pure for best taste2 tablespoons vegetable oil can substitute with melted butterFor the Peppermint Touch1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract avoid peppermint oil½ cup crushed candy canes for festive flairFor the Chocolate Bliss1 cup chocolate chips use semi-sweet or dark chocolate1 cup vanilla candy coating or white chocolate chips as substitute Equipment OvenMixing bowlsHand Mixercookie scoopParchment paper Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.In a separate bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until fluffy for about 2 minutes.Gradually add the granulated sugar and light brown sugar, mixing until smooth.Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.Chill the dough wrapped in parchment paper for at least 1 hour.Scoop the dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.Bake for 8-10 minutes until tops are set and slightly underbaked in center.Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.Melt the vanilla candy coating in the microwave until smooth.Dip one side of each cookie in the melted coating and sprinkle with crushed candy canes. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 105mgPotassium: 90mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 100IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesStore cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 10 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
