Imagine biting into soft, fudgy chocolate cookies with just the right hint of cooling peppermint, all topped with the festive crunch of crushed candy canes. These Chocolate Peppermint Christmas Cookies capture the spirit of the season perfectly, making them an instant favorite for holiday dessert boards and cookie exchanges alike. They are not only delicious but also bring that comforting warmth and joy that only Christmas treats can deliver. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or treating yourself, these cookies are sure to become a cherished holiday staple.

Chocolate Peppermint Christmas Cookies - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is the key to creating these irresistible cookies. Each one plays an essential role, ensuring the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and festive color.

½ cup unsalted butter: Softened for easy creaming, it adds richness and results in a tender crumb.
¾ cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create that soft, chewy texture.
1 large egg: Binds everything together while helping to give the cookies structure.
1 tsp peppermint extract: The star flavor that infuses the cookies with that unmistakable holiday freshness.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds depth and a warm undertone to the chocolate and peppermint.
1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation that provides structure without making cookies tough.
⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers rich chocolate flavor and dark color.
½ tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just right while maintaining softness.
¼ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
¾ cup chocolate chips: Melting pockets of chocolate inside the cookie for extra indulgence.
Crushed candy canes: Sprinkled on top for a festive crunch and peppermint punch.

How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Christmas Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly baked cookie with a soft center and slightly crisp edges. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so your cookies don’t stick and are easy to remove after baking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, giving your cookies a tender and soft texture.

Step 3: Add Egg and Extracts

Next, crack in the egg and pour in the peppermint and vanilla extracts. Mix everything until combined, allowing the flavors to blend seamlessly into the creamy base. The peppermint extract is what makes these cookies truly festive.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these ingredients well ensures your cookies will have consistent flavor and rise evenly.

Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Slowly fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Take care not to overmix; you want a silky, fudgy dough that still holds together nicely without being too dense.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chocolate chips. These little pockets of melted chocolate are essential to create that indulgent fudgy texture that pairs perfectly with the peppermint flavor.

Step 7: Scoop and Bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between them as they will spread slightly. Bake in the preheated oven for 9–11 minutes until the edges are set but the centers remain soft and chewy.

Step 8: Add Crushed Candy Canes

Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, sprinkle the tops generously with crushed candy canes. The residual heat will slightly melt the candy canes, helping them stick and giving a beautiful, festive finish.

How to Serve Chocolate Peppermint Christmas Cookies

Garnishes

For an extra festive touch, consider adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of white chocolate over the cookies. Fresh peppermint leaves can also make a charming garnish if you’re serving them on a holiday platter.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of hot cocoa or peppermint-spiked coffee for an irresistibly cozy holiday treat. They also pair wonderfully with vanilla bean ice cream, elevating the classic dessert board.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Chocolate Peppermint Christmas Cookies in a decorative tin or stack them tied with a red and green ribbon for gifting. For holiday parties, place them on tiered platters mixed with other Christmas-themed sweets to wow your guests visually and gastronomically.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and chewy for up to 5 days, making them easy to enjoy throughout the week without losing their festive charm.

Freezing

Want to make these ahead of time? You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough in scooped balls on a tray. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a sealed bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, just pop the frozen dough straight in the oven—just add a couple extra minutes to the bake time.

Reheating

To enjoy the cookies warm and fresh, simply microwave a cookie for 10–15 seconds or heat briefly in a 300°F oven for 3–5 minutes. This brings back that just-baked softness and melts the chocolate chips nicely.

FAQs

Can I use peppermint oil instead of peppermint extract?

Peppermint oil is much more concentrated than extract, so if you want to substitute, use it sparingly. Start with only a drop or two and adjust to taste, as too much can overpower the cookie.

What if I don’t have cocoa powder on hand?

You could try substituting with melted chocolate instead, but be aware this may change the texture and moisture of the cookies. Cocoa powder keeps them light and fudgy without adding extra fat.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free as written. However, you can experiment with gluten-free all-purpose flour blends to make a similar version—just check the blend’s instructions for best results.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

With some ingredient swaps like vegan butter, a flax egg, and dairy-free chocolate chips, you could make vegan Chocolate Peppermint Christmas Cookies. The peppermint flavor will shine through no matter the variation!

Why do the cookies need to be soft and fudgy?

The soft, fudgy texture is what makes these cookies feel so indulgent and festive. It complements the cooling peppermint and crunchy candy canes perfectly, creating a delightful contrast in each bite.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about these Chocolate Peppermint Christmas Cookies. Their chewy, chocolatey goodness paired with refreshing peppermint makes every bite feel like a holiday celebration. I can’t encourage you enough to try baking these for your next festive gathering or cozy night in—they truly bring joy and warmth to the season. Happy baking and happy holidays!