Homemade chocolate peppermint cookies with a rich, dark color, drizzled with chocolate and topped with crushed peppermint, set on a rustic plate with a cozy background.

Soft & Chewy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies – A Holiday Favorite!

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If holiday flavors had a VIP list, chocolate and peppermint would be at the top—no contest. There’s just something about that rich cocoa paired with cool, minty goodness that screams winter wonderland. And when you pack all that into a soft, chewy cookie? Pure magic.

These chocolate peppermint cookies are the perfect mix of fudgy, minty, and festive. They’ve got that slightly crisp edge, a soft center, and just the right amount of crushed candy canes for a little holiday sparkle. Whether you’re baking a batch for a Christmas party, a cookie exchange, or just to snack on with a cup of hot cocoa, these will instantly put you in the holiday spirit.

And the best part? They’re ridiculously easy to make—no fancy techniques, no complicated ingredients. Just simple, classic flavors that work every single time. So, grab your mixing bowl, turn on some Christmas music, and let’s get baking!

When it comes to holiday baking, chocolate and peppermint are the ultimate dream team. That deep, rich chocolate paired with cool, refreshing peppermint just feels like Christmas. And when you turn that into a soft, chewy cookie with just the right crunch from crushed candy canes? It’s holiday magic in every bite.

Some cookies are good year-round, but these? These chocolate peppermint cookies are pure holiday spirit. They’ve got that cozy, indulgent chocolate flavor with a festive peppermint kick that instantly makes you think of snowy nights, twinkling lights, and mugs of hot cocoa.

Why You Need These in Your Holiday Lineup

Let’s be real—there’s no shortage of holiday cookies, but these stand out for a reason. Here’s why:

  • Rich and fudgy – The cocoa powder and melted chocolate create an ultra-chocolatey base.
  • Perfectly balanced peppermint – Just enough to be refreshing without overpowering the chocolate.
  • Festive and fun – The crushed candy canes add the perfect holiday touch.
  • Super easy to make – No complicated steps, no fancy ingredients—just classic flavors that work every time.

Whether you’re baking for a Christmas party, a cookie exchange, or just because you need a little holiday cheer, these cookies will hit the spot. And let’s be honest—you don’t even need an occasion. Pour yourself a cup of coffee, grab a couple of these cookies, and enjoy the best flavors of the season.

Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

There are a lot of holiday cookies out there, but these chocolate peppermint cookies? They’re in a league of their own. They’ve got everything you could want—rich chocolate flavor, a cool peppermint kick, and just the right amount of festive crunch. Plus, they’re so easy to make that even beginner bakers can pull them off like a pro.

1. Soft, Chewy, and Perfectly Chocolatey

These cookies have that ideal balance—crispy on the edges, soft in the center, and packed with deep chocolate flavor. The secret? A mix of cocoa powder and melted chocolate makes them extra rich.

2. Just the Right Touch of Peppermint

Peppermint can be tricky—it’s either too strong or barely there. But in these cookies, it’s just enough to complement the chocolate without overpowering it. The combination of peppermint extract and crushed candy canes adds the perfect festive touch.

3. Easy to Make with Simple Ingredients

No complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients here! You probably already have most of what you need in your pantry—flour, sugar, cocoa powder, eggs, and butter. Just add a little peppermint extract and some candy canes, and you’re good to go.

Whether you’re baking for a cookie exchange, a holiday party, or just to treat yourself, these cookies bring instant Christmas vibes. Plus, they make the perfect edible gift—because honestly, who wouldn’t love a box of homemade chocolate peppermint cookies?

5. Perfect for Dipping in Hot Cocoa

This might just be the best part—these cookies taste amazing dunked in hot chocolate. The rich chocolate melts just a little, the peppermint adds a cool contrast, and suddenly, you’re living your best cozy holiday life.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These chocolate peppermint cookies come together with simple pantry staples and a few festive additions. You probably already have most of these ingredients on hand, making them the perfect last-minute holiday treat.

To get that perfect soft and chewy texture, you’ll need:

Close-up of softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar & brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract in small bowls on a wooden countertop, with soft natural lighting and a blurred background for a warm, homemade feel.
  • Unsalted butter – Softened for easy mixing and a rich, buttery taste.
  • Granulated sugar & brown sugar – A mix of both gives the right balance of sweetness and chewiness.
  • Eggs – Helps bind everything together and adds moisture.
  • Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.

2. The Chocolate Magic

For that deep, fudgy chocolate flavor, you’ll need:

Close-up of cocoa powder in a small bowl and melted chocolate in a separate bowl on a wooden countertop, with soft natural lighting and a blurred background for a warm, homemade feel.
  • Cocoa powder – Unsweetened cocoa powder brings the classic chocolate taste.
  • Melted chocolate – Adds extra richness and a slightly gooey texture.

3. The Peppermint Twist

To give these cookies their signature holiday flavor, don’t forget:

Close-up of peppermint extract in a small glass bowl and crushed candy canes in a separate bowl on a wooden countertop, with soft natural lighting and a blurred background for a warm, homemade feel.
  • Peppermint extract – Just a small amount for the perfect cool, minty taste.
  • Crushed candy canes – Adds crunch, color, and a festive peppermint pop.

4. The Dry Ingredients

The key to the right cookie structure is getting the dry ingredients right:

  • All-purpose flour – The base of the cookie dough.
  • Baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and stay soft.
  • Salt – Brings out the flavors and balances the sweetness.

Optional Add-Ins

If you want to take these cookies to the next level, try adding:

  • Chocolate chips – For an extra gooey bite.
  • White chocolate drizzle – A little extra sweetness and decoration.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Now that we’ve got all the ingredients ready, it’s time to bake the ultimate holiday cookies! These steps are super simple, and the result? A batch of rich, minty, and absolutely irresistible chocolate peppermint cookies.

1. Prepare the Dough

Mix the Wet Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
  • Add eggs, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract and mix until combined.

Add the Chocolate

  • Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 20–30 seconds to prevent burning.
  • Let it cool slightly, then mix it into the wet ingredients. This adds an extra fudgy texture.

2. Combine the Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  • If using chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.
  • If you want thicker, chewier cookies, cover the dough and chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes to an hour. This helps prevent spreading in the oven.

4. Scoop and Bake

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon to portion out the dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  • Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still looks slightly soft.

5. Add the Peppermint Crunch

  • While the cookies are still warm, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top. The heat will slightly melt them, helping them stick.
  • For extra flair, drizzle with melted white chocolate after they cool.

6. Cool and Enjoy!

  • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack.
  • Serve warm with a glass of milk or hot cocoa, and enjoy the perfect holiday treat!

Now that your kitchen smells amazing, let’s talk about a few pro tips to make these cookies even better!

Pro Tips for the Best Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Baking cookies is simple, but a few small tricks can make a huge difference in the final result. These tips will help you get that perfect chewy texture, rich chocolate flavor, and just the right amount of peppermint crunch.

1. Don’t Skip the Chilling Time

  • Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
  • If you want even thicker cookies, chill the dough for an hour or more.

2. Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder

  • A good unsweetened cocoa powder makes a big difference in flavor.
  • Dutch-processed cocoa will give a deeper chocolate taste, while natural cocoa is slightly lighter.

3. Measure Your Flour Correctly

  • Too much flour makes cookies dense and dry. Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag.

4. Don’t Overbake

  • These cookies should look slightly underbaked in the center when you take them out of the oven.
  • They’ll continue cooking as they cool, leaving you with a soft and chewy texture.

5. Crush Candy Canes the Right Way

  • Place candy canes in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin for the perfect texture.
  • Avoid crushing them too finely—bigger pieces add the best crunch!

6. Add Peppermint Candy at the Right Time

  • Sprinkle crushed candy canes on warm cookies right after baking.
  • If you add them too early, they may melt too much.

7. Store Them Properly for Freshness

  • Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • To keep them soft, store them with a slice of bread or a marshmallow inside the container.

Now that you’ve mastered these pro tips, let’s check out some fun variations to make these cookies even more exciting!

Fun Variations to Try

Want to switch things up? These chocolate peppermint cookies are already amazing, but you can easily tweak them to create new flavors and textures. Here are some fun variations to try!

1. Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

  • Stir in chocolate chips (semi-sweet, dark, or white) for extra gooey bites.
  • For an ultra-rich cookie, add a handful of chopped dark chocolate instead of chips.

2. White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

  • Swap out the cocoa powder for white chocolate chips in the dough.
  • Drizzle melted white chocolate on top instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter finish.

3. Gluten-Free Version

  • Use a gluten-free 1:1 flour substitute in place of regular flour.
  • Make sure to check that your peppermint extract and candy canes are gluten-free!

4. Peppermint Mocha Cookies

  • Add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder to the dry ingredients for a coffee kick.
  • This version tastes like your favorite holiday coffee shop drink in cookie form!

5. Dipped Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

  • After baking, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate (dark, milk, or white).
  • Sprinkle extra crushed candy canes on top before the chocolate sets for a festive touch.

6. Stuffed Peppermint Cookies

  • Place a small piece of peppermint bark or a York Peppermint Patty in the center of each dough ball before baking.
  • This creates a surprise melty peppermint center when you bite into the cookie!

No matter which version you try, these cookies will bring instant holiday cheer. Up next—how to store them and package them for gifting

Pair Chocolate Peppermint Cookies with Other Sweet Treats

Looking for more delicious dessert inspiration? Check out these related recipes:

  • Indulge in a Triple Chocolate Cake for the ultimate chocolate lover’s dream.
  • Try Delicious Dessert Cups for a variety of bite-sized treats.
  • If you’re a fan of creative cookies, don’t miss this unique Crookie Recipe—a cookie and croissant hybrid!
  • Want to experiment with natural sweeteners? Learn how to Use Dates Instead of Sugar in Cookies for a healthier twist.
  • For a festive dessert idea, check out this Sourdough Dessert Recipe—a creative way to use sourdough starter in baking.

These Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are a crowd-pleaser and a perfect addition to any holiday cookie platter. Bake them, share them, and enjoy the magic of the season!

How to Store & Gift These Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Baked a big batch? These cookies stay fresh for days and make the perfect holiday gift. Whether you’re storing them for yourself or packaging them up for friends and family, here’s how to keep them tasting amazing.

1. How to Store Your Cookies

Short-Term Storage

  • Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • To keep them soft, place a slice of bread or a marshmallow in the container—it helps retain moisture!

Freezing Baked Cookies

  • Let the cookies cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
  • They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months—just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
  • Scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet.
  • Freeze for 30 minutes, then transfer to a zip-top bag and store in the freezer.
  • When ready to bake, place frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as usual—just add 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time.

3. How to Package Cookies for Gifting

Festive Gift Ideas

Want to turn these cookies into the perfect holiday gift? Try these fun packaging ideas:

  • Cookie tins – Line a holiday tin with parchment paper and layer the cookies inside.
  • Mason jars – Stack cookies inside a jar, tie it with a ribbon, and add a gift tag.
  • DIY cookie boxes – Use a small box, add shredded paper filler, and wrap with a festive bow.

Shipping Cookies Without Breaking Them

If you’re mailing cookies to loved ones:

  • Place a layer of parchment paper between each cookie.
  • Pack them in a sturdy container and add bubble wrap or crumpled tissue paper to prevent movement.
  • Use a fast shipping option so they arrive fresh!

4. The Perfect Holiday Treat to Share

These cookies make a thoughtful, homemade gift that anyone will love. Whether you’re bringing them to a holiday party, sharing with coworkers, or sending a batch to family, they’re guaranteed to spread holiday cheer!

Now, let’s wrap things up with a few final thoughts!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do chocolate and peppermint go together?

Absolutely! Chocolate and peppermint are one of the best holiday flavor combinations. The rich, deep taste of chocolate pairs perfectly with the cool, refreshing kick of peppermint. It’s a classic mix that works in everything from cookies to hot cocoa to holiday desserts. The balance of sweetness and minty freshness makes it a favorite for winter treats!

Did you know facts about chocolate chip cookies?

  • Invented by accident in the 1930s by Ruth Wakefield.
  • The most popular cookie in America.
  • The world’s largest chocolate chip cookie weighed over 40,000 pounds!

Can I put peppermint extract in melted chocolate?

Yes, but be careful! Peppermint extract can sometimes cause melted chocolate to seize (turn grainy and thick). To prevent this:

  • Use oil-based or alcohol-based peppermint extract, not water-based.
  • Add the extract after melting the chocolate, stirring it in slowly.
  • If the chocolate seizes, try adding a tiny bit of vegetable oil or melted cocoa butter to smooth it out.

On average, 120–180 calories per cookie, depending on ingredients and toppings.

If you’re looking for a cookie that brings instant holiday cheer, these chocolate peppermint cookies are it. They’re rich, chewy, packed with chocolate flavor, and have just the right amount of cool peppermint crunch. Whether you’re making them for a holiday party, gifting them to friends, or just baking a batch for yourself (no judgment!), they’re guaranteed to be a hit.

Plus, they’re super easy to make with simple ingredients, and you can even freeze the dough to have fresh-baked cookies anytime. With fun variations like double chocolate, peppermint mocha, or dipped cookies, you can customize them however you like!

So grab your baking sheet, crush up some candy canes, and get ready to fill your kitchen with the best holiday aroma ever. Trust me—once you taste these cookies, they’ll become a yearly tradition.

Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your cookies with someone special!

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