As I stood in my kitchen, the unmistakable scent of chocolate wafted through the air, transporting me to my childhood—where freshly baked goods were always a source of warmth and joy. These Festive Peppermint Brownie Cookies bring that magic back with a rich, fudgy texture and a refreshing peppermint kick, making them a must-try for the holiday season. Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they also strike the perfect balance between chewiness and indulgence, ensuring everyone at your holiday gathering is left wanting more. Ideal for gifting or simply sharing with loved ones, these cookies will add a festive flair to your dessert table. Who wouldn’t want to create such a delightful experience? Ready to dive in and fill your home with the cozy essence of Christmas?
Why are these cookies a holiday favorite?
Irresistible Taste: The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a luscious flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Chewy Delight: Expect a fudgy, chewy texture that brings comfort and nostalgia with each bite.
Easy to Make: The straightforward recipe means you can whip up a batch without any fuss—perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Festive Appearance: Topped with crushed candy canes, these cookies are a visual delight that will impress your guests.
Gifting Ready: Ideal for sharing or giving as a gift, they embody generosity and holiday cheer, just like our Gingerbread Thumbprint Cookies.
Versatile Options: Switch it up by using dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor, or try exciting variations like our Chewy Pumpkin Cookies for more festive fun!
Peppermint Brownie Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – Provides structure; use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor; opt for Dutch-processed for a smoother taste.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent to ensure cookies rise slightly.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors beautifully.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds moisture and richness; avoid overheating to maintain dough consistency.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Contributes sweetness and promotes a chewy texture; can substitute with coconut sugar for lower glycemic impact.
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
• 2 large eggs – Binds all ingredients and adds to chewy texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract – Provides a refreshing minty note; be cautious with peppermint oil—start with less!
• ¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – Adds delightful bits of chocolate and texture; switch for dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
• ¼ cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies – Adds a festive touch and crunchy texture that pairs wonderfully with the peppermint brownie cookies.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Brownie Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cookie removal later. This preparation step is essential for achieving perfectly baked Peppermint Brownie Cookies, allowing them to spread gently in the oven and develop that delightful chewy texture.
Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Ensure that these dry ingredients are fully combined and aerated. This mixture forms the foundation of your cookies, contributing to the rich chocolate flavor and the right amount of lift when baked.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of melted unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of brown sugar, stirring until the mixture is glossy. Next, beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, blend in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to give your Peppermint Brownie Cookies a rich, aromatic flavor profile.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently to combine until no flour streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies. Stir in ¾ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to bring that extra melty chocolate goodness into your Peppermint Brownie Cookies, giving them a delightful texture.
Step 5: Chill Dough (optional)
For an extra chewy texture, consider chilling the dough for 20-30 minutes. Place the bowl in the refrigerator, allowing the fats to solidify slightly. Chilling helps create thicker cookies, which enhance the fudgy texture that everyone adores in these festive Peppermint Brownie Cookies.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop, portion out dough and roll it into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Arrange them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow for spreading. This ensures that your Peppermint Brownie Cookies bake evenly without merging into one another, maintaining their beautiful shape.
Step 7: Decorate
Before baking, take a moment to top each dough ball with a few extra chocolate chips and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes or peppermint candies. This adds a festive flair and a delightful crunch, elevating your Peppermint Brownie Cookies from ordinary to extraordinary.
Step 8: Bake
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want a soft center with slightly crisp edges. The cookies will look slightly underdone when you take them out—this is perfect, as they will continue to cook on the baking sheet.
Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This crucial resting period lets them firm up while retaining that chewy texture. After that, transfer them carefully to a wire rack to cool completely, where they will develop even more flavor while becoming irresistibly delightful Peppermint Brownie Cookies.
Expert Tips for Peppermint Brownie Cookies
- Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is just warm, not hot, to maintain a cohesive dough. Overheated butter might result in flat cookies.
- Chill for Thickness: If you prefer thicker Peppermint Brownie Cookies, chilling the dough for 20-30 minutes helps achieve that lovely chewy texture.
- Measure Flour Properly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid adding too much, which can lead to spreading and dryness.
- Underbake Slightly: Aim for a soft center when baking. Removing them from the oven while slightly underbaked will keep your cookies chewy and moist.
- Reshape If Needed: If the cookies spread too much during baking, quickly reshape them with a round cookie cutter right after they come out of the oven for a perfect look.
Peppermint Brownie Cookies Variations
Feel free to mix things up and make these Peppermint Brownie Cookies your own with these delightful twists!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a delightful vegan alternative.
- Nutty Cheer: Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for an extra layer of flavor and crunchy texture.
- Spicy Kick: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon for a warm, spicy twist that complements the chocolate and peppermint perfectly.
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking blend for cookies everyone can enjoy without missing out on the festive fun.
- Mint Chocolate Swirl: Create a marbled effect by swirling in a bit of mint chocolate spread into your dough before baking for a surprise with every bite.
- Chocolate Peppermint Explosion: Switch out semi-sweet chips for mint-flavored chocolate chips to take the peppermint flavor up a notch with added richness.
- Cookie Sandwiches: Make these Brownie Cookies into scrumptious sandwiches by adding a dollop of whipped cream or mint-flavored frosting between two cookies.
- Candy Cane Crush: Instead of crushed candy canes, try using crumbled peppermint bark for a richer, more decadent candy topping.
Remember, each variation can bring its unique charm to your holiday celebrations, just like a warm batch of our Thick Chewy Cookies or a festive plate of Apple Brownies Deliciously. Experiment and discover what you love!
What to Serve with Festive Peppermint Brownie Cookies
The holidays are a perfect time to create a magical dining experience filled with rich flavors and festive touches.
- Creamy Hot Chocolate: The velvety richness of hot chocolate perfectly complements the minty, chocolatey goodness of the cookies, creating a cozy pairing.
- Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a creamy texture and enhances the rich chocolate flavor, making each bite even more indulgent.
- Peppermint Bark: Embrace the holiday spirit by serving this crunchy, chocolatey treat alongside your cookies—it’s a sweet match made in heaven.
- Chocolate Milk: For a nostalgic twist, pair your Peppermint Brownie Cookies with chocolate milk, allowing the flavors to dance together delightfully.
- Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea contrast beautifully with the cool peppermint, creating a harmonious balance. It’s comforting and festive!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve your cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat—imagine that melty creaminess melding with the chewy texture.
- Candy Cane Milkshake: Blend ice cream, milk, and crushed candy canes for a refreshing shake that echoes the flavors of your cookies!
- Cranberry Orange Salad: For a fresh element, a cranberry orange salad adds a delightful tang, balancing the sweetness of the cookies.
- Nutty Biscotti: Pair with crunchy biscotti for a delightful textural contrast, perfect for dunking as you savor those festive flavors.
- Festive Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate and add a refreshing note to your holiday spread.
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint Brownie Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply shape the dough into balls and refrigerate them in an airtight container. If you prefer, you can mix and refrigerate the dough without shaping it, allowing for flexibility on baking day. When you’re ready to enjoy these festive treats, bake them straight from the fridge—there’s no need to thaw! Just increase the baking time by a minute or two for that delightful, fudgy texture. Rest assured, they’ll taste just as delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Brownie Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. To maintain their deliciously soft texture, place a slice of bread in the container.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature, or warm them briefly in the microwave for 8-10 seconds to regain that fresh-baked feel.
Decoration Tips: If freezing, consider adding crushed candy canes right before serving to keep their festive appearance upbeat!
Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right ingredients for my Peppermint Brownie Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose fresh ingredients. Look for flour and cocoa powder with no lumps or dark spots. When selecting butter, ensure it’s unsalted for the right flavor balance; consider using organic butter for a richer taste. Also, check peppermint extracts for quality—pure extracts provide the best flavor.
How should I store Peppermint Brownie Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. A nifty trick is to place a slice of bread in the container; this helps maintain their softness. If they’re not gone by then, they may start to dry out, but they’ll still be delicious!
Can I freeze Peppermint Brownie Cookies?
Certainly! To freeze your cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they’re not touching. Freeze for about 1 hour until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw at room temperature or heat them in the microwave for 8-10 seconds for that fresh-baked delight.
What if my cookie dough seems too loose or warm?
Very! If your dough feels too loose, it’s essential to chill it before baking. Just pop it in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes. Overheated butter can cause this issue; it’s best to ensure your butter is warm but not hot right from the oven. If your cookies spread too much while baking, reshape them using a round cookie cutter immediately after taking them out for a perfect look.
Are there any dietary considerations for Peppermint Brownie Cookies?
Of course! If you have dietary restrictions, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour, and coconut sugar can be used in place of granulated sugar for a lower glycemic option. For a dairy-free version, try using coconut butter or a plant-based butter substitute, and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. Always check labels for allergens if you are baking for someone with food allergies.
Can I decorate Peppermint Brownie Cookies differently?
Absolutely! While crushed candy canes add a festive flair, you can also use crushed Oreos or chocolate peppermint candies for a unique twist. Get creative with your cookie toppings, and consider drizzling melted chocolate over the top for an extra decadent touch!
Chewy Peppermint Brownie Cookies for a Festive Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
- In a large bowl, mix melted butter with granulated and brown sugar until glossy. Add the eggs, vanilla, and peppermint extract.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
- For an extra chewy texture, chill the dough for 20-30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Scoop dough and roll into balls, placing 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
- Top each dough ball with extra chocolate chips and crushed candy canes.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set but the center is soft.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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