Name: Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies That Will Melt Your Heart
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Measure carefully to avoid excess.); ¾ cup Cocoa Powder (Dutch Process) (Regular cocoa can be substituted if necessary.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Helps cookies rise for a chewy texture.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Assists in spreading and contributes to browning.); ½ teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Ensure it is softened for easier creaming.); 1 cup Light Brown Sugar (Adds sweetness and moisture, contributing to chewiness.); ½ cup Granulated Sugar (Adds sweetness and helps with texture.); 2 large Egg Yolks (Use at room temperature for better incorporation.); 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (Infuses the cookies with a refreshing mint flavor.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Bean Paste or Extract (Adds warmth and complexity to the flavor.); 1 cup Peppermint Chips (Chop Andes mints as an alternative if unavailable.); 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (Adds extra chocolate richness.); ½ cup Crushed Candy Canes (For topping, provides a festive crunch.)

The aroma of chocolate and peppermint wafts through the air, instantly transporting me back to cozy holiday gatherings filled with laughter and joy. These Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are my go-to treat, marrying the rich taste of dark chocolate with a refreshing pop of peppermint. What I love most is how easy and quick they are to whip up, requiring no chilling time—perfect for those of us caught up in the holiday hustle! With delightfully chewy centers and melty chocolate chips in every bite, these cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re treating yourself or gifting them to loved ones, imagine the smiles each cookie brings. Are you ready to sprinkle some holiday cheer in your kitchen?

Why Choose Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?

Irresistible Flavor: These cookies combine rich dark chocolate with refreshing peppermint, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.
Quick Prep: No chilling time required means you can whip up a batch in no time, perfect for unexpected guests or last-minute cravings!
Chewy Delight: With soft centers and slightly crispy edges, they provide that sought-after cookie texture that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Festive Presentation: Topped with crushed candy canes, they not only taste delicious but also look beautiful on any holiday cookie platter.
Versatile Treat: Easily customize these cookies by substituting with chopped Andes mints or adding mini marshmallows for a twist!
Treat yourself or bring them to your next gathering; these cookies are bound to be a hit that spreads joy and sweetness, much like the spirit of the season itself!

Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; measure carefully to avoid excess.
Cocoa Powder (Dutch Process) – Adds depth of chocolate flavor; regular cocoa can be substituted if necessary.
Baking Powder – Helps cookies rise for a chewy texture.
Baking Soda – Assists in spreading and contributes to browning.
Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; ensure it is softened for easier creaming.
Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture, contributing to chewiness.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with texture.
Egg Yolks – Binds ingredients and adds richness; use at room temperature for better incorporation.
Peppermint Extract – Infuses the cookies with a refreshing mint flavor.
Vanilla Bean Paste or Extract – Adds warmth and complexity to the flavor.

For the Mix-Ins

Peppermint Chips – Provide bursts of peppermint flavor; chop Andes mints as an alternative if chips are unavailable.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds extra chocolate richness.
Crushed Candy Canes (optional) – For topping, provides a festive crunch and additional peppermint flavor.

These Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are sure to become a holiday favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring they are ready to receive your delicious Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. Keeping these sheets handy will streamline your baking process and ensure that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture for about 2 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial, as it creates the perfect base for your cookies, helping them rise beautifully in the oven.

Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Next, add egg yolks, peppermint extract, and vanilla bean paste or extract to the creamed mixture. Blend for an additional 2 minutes until the batter is pale and fluffy. This addition not only enriches the flavor but also contributes moisture, making your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies irresistibly soft.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Gradually mix in this dry ingredient combination to the wet batter, ensuring everything is just combined. Be cautious not to overmix; you want a smooth dough that will yield chewy cookies.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate and Mint
Gently fold in the peppermint chips and semi-sweet chocolate chips with a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step adds those delightful bursts of flavor in every bite of your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, enhancing their festive character.

Step 6: Scoop the Cookie Dough
Using a cookie scoop or two tablespoons, form the dough into 18 balls, placing them 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets. This spacing is key to allow the cookies to spread properly while baking, resulting in perfectly shaped Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Slide the baking sheets into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them — you want the edges to be set while the centers remain slightly underbaked for that chewy texture. Remember, 10 minutes will give you softer centers, while 12 minutes will create slightly crispier edges.

Step 8: Cool Cookies on a Rack
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 2 minutes. Afterward, carefully transfer them to a cooling rack. If you’re feeling festive, sprinkle the tops with crushed candy canes while they’re still warm for extra holiday cheer!

Expert Tips for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method instead of scooping directly from the bag to avoid excess flour and ensure a perfect texture.
Watch the Baking Time: Bake until the edges are set but the centers look slightly underbaked. They will firm up while cooling for ideal chewiness.
Room Temperature Eggs: Use egg yolks at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter, helping achieve a rich flavor in your cookies.
Chill Dough If Necessary: If your dough feels too soft, chill it for about 30 minutes. This can help shape better cookies without losing their texture.
Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to swap peppermint chips for chopped Andes mints or add mini marshmallows for a creative twist on these delightful Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.

What to Serve with Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

The perfect holiday treat deserves to be complemented with delightful sides to make any gathering memorable.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The chilled creaminess contrasts beautifully with the warm cookie, enhancing the overall texture and flavor experience.
Festive Hot Chocolate: A cup of rich hot chocolate topped with whipped cream perfectly pairs with these cookies, creating a cozy experience that warms the heart.
Peppermint Bark: This dual chocolate treat adds a delightful crunch and a refreshing minty flavor that matches the cookies’ own peppermint essence.
Spiced Apple Cider: The sweet and warm spices of cider balance out the chocolatey sweetness while adding a festive touch to your spread.
Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cookie into warm, melting chocolate for an indulgent dessert experience that chocolate lovers will appreciate.
Holiday Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a bright, fruity contrast to the rich chocolate, cleansing the palate between bites.
Gingerbread Cookies: Embrace the holiday spirit with another beloved cookie; the spiciness of gingerbread beautifully complements the chocolate and peppermint duo.
Coffee or Espresso: A strong brew cuts through the sweetness, balancing the flavors while enhancing the comforting chocolate notes.
Sugar Cookies: Soft and sweet, vanilla sugar cookies serve as a delightful complement and offer a different texture for cookie lovers!

Storage Tips for Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps retain their chewy texture and keeps them fresh.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just be sure to use an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag; separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds until the chocolate is melty again. These Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are delightful any time!

Make Ahead Options

These Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by following a few simple steps. Just mix the dough as instructed, shape it into balls, and refrigerate them in an airtight container to keep their freshness. If you want to go even further, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 2 weeks—just ensure the balls are spaced out on a baking sheet before freezing. This way, you can bake them straight from the freezer; just add an extra minute or two to the baking time for that freshly baked, chewy texture. When you’re ready to enjoy these delightful cookies, simply preheat your oven, bake, and savor the delicious aroma that fills your kitchen!

Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these cookies and cater to your taste buds! Each suggestion adds a delightful twist to the original recipe.

Minty Magic: Add a few drops of green food coloring along with the peppermint extract to give your cookies a festive hue.
Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan-friendly version that everyone will love.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in a half-cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch that complements the soft, chewy texture.
Extra Chewy: Use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour for an ultra-soft and chewy cookie that will melt in your mouth.
Spicy Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for an unexpected but exciting spicy kick that pairs well with the chocolate and peppermint.
S’mores Twist: Mix in mini marshmallows and graham cracker crumbs along with the peppermint chips for a fun s’mores-inspired treat.
Caramel Surprise: Hide a small piece of caramel in the center of each cookie dough ball before baking for a sweet surprise with every bite.
Chocolate Lovers: Double up the chocolate by using both semi-sweet chocolate chips and white chocolate chips for a rich, sweet flavor contrast.

These adaptations make your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies uniquely yours, adding new dimensions to each bite while maintaining that beloved classic essence. Enjoy experimenting and be sure to check out our tips for more ideas on different methods to elevate your baking!

Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select ripe ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, make sure your butter is at room temperature before creaming; it should feel soft but not greasy. When selecting eggs, opt for ones that are fresh and free of cracks. If using peppermint extract, check the label for purity—pure extracts will give you a more vibrant flavor compared to imitation options.

How should I store Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, and for how long?
For optimal freshness, store your Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week, making sure to seal them well to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies? How do I do it?
Certainly! To freeze, arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds to get them nice and soft again.

What if my cookie dough seems too soft?
Very! If your dough feels overly soft and difficult to scoop, simply cover it and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This not only helps firm it up for easier handling but also enhances the flavors as they meld together. Just be sure to bake them straight from the fridge for just the right texture!

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Indeed! For those with allergies, make sure to check if anyone has sensitivities to chocolate, eggs, or butter. If making for pets, avoid sharing cookies as chocolate and peppermint can be harmful. Additionally, for a vegan version, you could try substituting the butter with coconut oil and using egg replacers, though the texture may vary slightly.

Can I customize the peppermint flavor in these cookies?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of strong peppermint, feel free to reduce the peppermint extract in the recipe. Alternatively, you can skip the peppermint chips altogether and just use semi-sweet chocolate chips for a pure chocolate experience. Other delicious add-ins like nuts or mini marshmallows can elevate the overall flavor, so experiment to find your perfect blend!