Name: Decadent Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies for Cozy Holidays
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 72 min
Ingredients: 8 oz Semi-Sweet Baking Chocolate (Substitute with any quality chocolate (milk or dark) if desired.); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Can be substituted with vegan butter for dairy-free cookies.); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Use gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.); 1 tbsp Baking Powder (Leavening agent that helps cookies rise.); 1 tsp Salt (Enhances flavor.); 1/2 cup Dutch-Process Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (Substitute with natural unsweetened cocoa for a slightly different taste.); 2 large Eggs (Consider flax egg for a vegan alternative.); 1 cup Light Brown Sugar (Granulated sugar can be used, but cookies will be less chewy.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Adds aromatic flavor.); 1 tsp Peppermint Extract (Can reduce for a milder peppermint taste.); 1 cup Semisweet Chocolate Chunks (Feel free to mix in any chocolate based on preference.); 6 large Marshmallows (Mini marshmallows can be used if preferred.); 1/2 cup Crushed Peppermint Candy (Can substitute with crushed chocolate or omit entirely.)

As I stood in my kitchen, navigating the delightful chaos of holiday preparations, I stumbled upon the ultimate sweet temptation: Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies. These thick, soft cookies are my go-to for festive gatherings, effortlessly capturing the warm, cozy essence of winter. Bursting with rich chocolate and topped with gooey marshmallows and crunchy peppermint, they are the perfect antidote to the fast-paced season. Not only are these cookies an absolute crowd-pleaser, but they can also be made gluten-free with a simple flour swap. Baking these treats feels like wrapping my loved ones in a cozy blanket of holiday spirit, and I can’t wait for you to experience that joy too! Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the magical aroma of Christmas?

Why are these cookies a holiday must-have?

Decadent flavors make these Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies the ultimate festive treat, combining rich chocolate with the refreshing zing of peppermint. Soft and gooey, each bite melts in your mouth, enhanced by a luscious marshmallow topping. Versatile enough to accommodate gluten-free diets, they bring everyone together at the holiday table. Simplicity in preparation allows you to whip up these delights in no time, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings. Crowd-pleasers at any holiday party, they’ll leave your guests craving more and reminiscing about the delicious experience! Whether paired with some Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate cookies or enjoying by themselves, these cookies will create warm memories for everyone.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready for a festive baking adventure!

For the Cookie Batter

Semi-Sweet Baking Chocolate – Provides rich chocolate flavor; substitute with any quality chocolate (milk or dark) if desired.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; can be substituted with vegan butter for dairy-free cookies.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookie; use gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
Baking Powder – Leavening agent that helps cookies rise and become fluffy.
Salt – Enhances flavor throughout the cookie.
Dutch-Process Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds deep chocolate flavor; substitute with natural unsweetened cocoa for a slightly different taste.
Eggs – Binds ingredients together while adding moisture; consider flax egg for a vegan alternative.
Light Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture; granulated sugar can be used, but cookies will be less chewy.
Vanilla Extract – Adds aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Peppermint Extract – Elevates the holiday flavor; can reduce for a milder peppermint taste.

For the Toppings

Semisweet Chocolate Chunks – Add pockets of chocolate within the cookie; feel free to mix in any chocolate based on preference.
Large Marshmallows – Tops the cookies and melts beautifully; mini marshmallows can be used if preferred.
Crushed Peppermint Candy – Adds a festive crunch and flavor; can substitute with crushed chocolate or omit entirely.

Enjoy your baking journey with these irresistible Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies—perfect for cozying up this holiday season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies

Step 1: Melt Chocolate & Butter
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chopped semi-sweet baking chocolate and unsalted butter. Microwave on medium heat, stirring every 30 seconds until the mixture is completely smooth, about 1 to 2 minutes. Allow it to cool slightly, as adding it to the mixture while too hot can cook the eggs.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and Dutch-process unsweetened cocoa powder. This ensures there are no lumps and your cookies remain soft and fluffy. Set the bowl aside, as you’ll soon combine it with the wet mixture for your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until well combined. The mixture should appear light and fluffy. Next, mix in the cooled chocolate and butter blend, stirring until fully incorporated for a rich, chocolatey base.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this may lead to tough cookies. Once blended, fold in the semisweet chocolate chunks, creating pockets of chocolate that will delight you in every bite of the Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies.

Step 5: Chill Dough
Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking, ensuring they maintain a thick and soft texture, perfect for your festive treats.

Step 6: Scoop & Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop, portion out the chilled dough into balls and space them apart on the sheets. Bake in the preheated oven for about 9 minutes, until the edges are firm but the centers remain soft.

Step 7: Add Marshmallows
Remove the cookies from the oven and quickly place halved large marshmallows cut-side down on each cookie. Return the baking sheets to the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes until the marshmallows are melted and slightly puffed up, creating that gooey topping everyone loves.

Step 8: Cool & Decorate
Transfer the freshly baked Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies to a wire rack to cool slightly. Once cooled, drizzle melted chocolate over the top and generously sprinkle crushed peppermint candy for a festive finishing touch that will wow your guests and family alike.

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies are ideal for busy home cooks wanting to spread out their holiday baking! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Additionally, you can scoop the cookie dough balls onto parchment-lined baking sheets and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, you can bake straight from frozen—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for perfect, warm cookies. To maintain the cookies’ soft texture, ensure they are cooled completely before decorating with melted chocolate and crushed peppermint candy. Enjoy the deliciousness of homemade Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies with far less stress on busy days!

What to Serve with Irresistible Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies

Prepare to create a festive feast that warms both the heart and the home, perfectly complementing the cozy delight of freshly baked cookies!

Creamy Hot Chocolate: This classic drink echoes the flavors of your cookies, making it a warm, indulgent pairing that feels like a hug in a mug.
Peppermint Bark: Enhance the peppermint goodness with this crunchy, sweet treat that balances the soft, gooey textures of the cookies.
S’ mores Dip: A decadent twist on the classic, this gooey dip invites guests to dip cookies into melted chocolate and toasted marshmallows—a delightful experience!
Cozy Cinnamon Roll Casserole: With its warm spices and soft texture, this comforting dish makes an inviting breakfast or brunch addition, blending beautifully with your holiday themes.
Nutty Family Fudge: Rich and indulgent, this fudge incorporates nuts for added texture, providing a perfect contrast to the soft, chewy cookies while leaving your guests wanting more.
Sparkling Cranberry Juice: This refreshing drink brings a hint of tartness to balance the sweetness of your cookies, adding a festive sparkle to any holiday table.
Chocolate Dipped Fruit: Strawberries or pretzels dipped in chocolate offer a sweet and salty combo that pairs deliciously with the rich flavors of peppermint hot chocolate cookies, creating interesting taste buds of textures.
Marshmallow Fluff Dip: Light and fluffy, this treat perfectly matches the gooey marshmallows on your cookies, providing another layer of sweetness that enhances the overall experience.

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and fresh.

Fridge: If you prefer, these cookies can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days; just ensure they’re in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: Freeze cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy!

Reheating: To reheat, pop cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes for that fresh-baked taste.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies! Every twist adds to the delightful holiday spirit.

Milk Chocolate: Swap semi-sweet chocolate for milk chocolate for a creamier, sweeter treat that kids will love.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to ensure everyone can join in on the deliciousness without worry.
Vegan: Substitute vegan butter and a flax egg for a fantastic dairy-free and egg-free version that’s just as scrumptious.
Nutty Addition: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the chocolate and peppermint flavors.
Minty Boost: If you love mint, add a few drops of peppermint extract to the chocolate drizzle for an extra burst of flavor!
Spiced Delight: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced twist that brings out the holiday cheer.
Marshmallow Fluff: Try using marshmallow fluff instead of marshmallows for an ooey-gooey topping that’s sure to impress!
Decorative Sprinkles: Top with festive holiday sprinkles along with crushed peppermint to make them extra vibrant and cheerful on your cookie platter.

No matter how you choose to transform these cookies, you’re sure to create something special! And if you find yourself craving more festive flavors, why not try some Chewy Pumpkin Cookies for a delightful holiday spread?

Expert Tips for Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies

Cool Chocolate Mixture: Let the melted chocolate and butter cool before adding eggs. This prevents cooking the eggs and ensures a smooth texture.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough until just combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
Chill for Best Results: Chilling the dough is essential; it prevents excessive spreading and helps achieve that thick, soft cookie you crave.
Uniform Size: Use a cookie scoop for even portions. This ensures all cookies bake at the same rate, achieving perfect results every time.
Watch the Oven Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking. They should look soft in the center and slightly set at the edges for the best peppermint hot chocolate cookies.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of chocolate is best for Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies?
Absolutely! For these cookies, I recommend using semi-sweet baking chocolate for a rich, appealing flavor. However, you could easily substitute it with milk or dark chocolate based on your preference. Just remember that the flavor will slightly change with different types of chocolate.

How should I store leftover cookies?
Very! You can keep your delicious Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to extend their life, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days in a sealed container to maintain their moisture and goodness.

Can I freeze Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze the cookies, allow them to cool completely first. Then, place them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring you separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can enjoy these frozen treats for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked sensation.

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
No worries! If you find your cookies spreading excessively, the culprit might be that the dough wasn’t chilled adequately. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking, as this helps maintain shape. Also, ensure you’re measuring your flour correctly; too little can cause the cookies to spread.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. This swap should provide you with a delightful gluten-free version of these Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies that everyone can enjoy!

Are there any ingredient substitutions for allergies?
Very! If you have allergies, there are alternatives you can use. For instance, you can use vegan butter or coconut oil in place of regular butter for dairy-free cookies, and a flax egg can replace regular eggs for a vegan version. Always check ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.