There’s something incredibly heartwarming about the festive season, especially when it comes to the aroma of freshly baked cookies filling the kitchen. As I prepared these Decadent Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, the sweet scent of cocoa blended with an invigorating hint of mint transported me back to childhood holiday memories—days filled with laughter, hot cocoa, and cozy gatherings.
These cookies are the perfect antidote for those moments when fast food just won’t do. With rich chocolate flavor, creamy white chocolate drizzled on top, and a delightful crunch of peppermint, they are sure to please any crowd. Whether you’re hosting a holiday cookie exchange or simply indulging in a cozy night in, these cookies bring warmth and joy to every bite. Get ready to whip up a batch that might just become your new seasonal favorite!
Why Love Decadent Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?
Irresistible sweetness: These cookies are a delightful blend of rich chocolate and refreshing mint flavors, making each bite utterly addictive.
Easy to make: You don’t need advanced baking skills to whip up this crowd-pleaser—just a few simple steps and you’ll be set!
Festive appeal: The vibrant green and red toppings add a jolly touch that makes them perfect for holiday gatherings.
Versatile variations: Customize your cookies by swapping in different types of chocolate or adding nuts for an extra crunch.
Perfect pairing: Enjoy them with a warm cup of hot chocolate or coffee for a cozy treat that enhances the experience.
Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds when you serve these stunning cookies!
Decadent Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Ingredients
• Gather everything you need for these festive delights!
For the Cookie Dough
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with browning; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor.
• Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and a hint of caramel flavor; light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably.
• Large Eggs – Acts as a binder for the cookie dough; substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and overall flavor; use pure vanilla for best results.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; for a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Delivers intense chocolate flavor; Dutch-processed cocoa can be substituted for a smoother taste.
• Baking Soda – Helps cookies rise; ensure it’s fresh for proper leavening.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors; a pinch of sea salt can elevate the taste.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds bursts of chocolate in every bite; mix with dark chocolate chips for a richer profile.
• Peppermint Extract – Infuses the cookies with a festive mint flavor; adjust according to taste or use mint extract sparingly as it’s more concentrated.
For Topping
• White Chocolate Chips – Create a sweet and creamy drizzle; use dairy-free options for a vegan version.
• Crushed Peppermint Candies – Add a crunchy texture and festive flair; crushed candy canes work well and enhance the peppermint flavor.
How to Make Decadent Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and easy cleanup!
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Cream softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step infuses air into the mixture for delightful cookies!
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Incorporate large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, gently stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract for a festive flavor boost.
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Whisk together all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. This helps evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
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Mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gradually until just combined. Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, being careful not to overmix.
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Scoop rounded dough balls onto the prepared sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading. A cookie scoop makes this step a breeze!
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Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers look soft. Let them cool slightly before transferring to wire racks.
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Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring until smooth and creamy. This drizzle adds a beautiful finishing touch!
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Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies. Get creative—this is where you can turn them into a true masterpiece!
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Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top of the chocolate drizzle before it sets. The crunch adds a delightful texture and festive flair.
Optional: For an extra treat, serve these cookies with a warm cup of peppermint hot cocoa.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Decadent Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
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Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming; this contributes to the light and fluffy texture.
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Don’t Overmix: After adding the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can make your cookies tough instead of soft and chewy.
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Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft, chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking. This helps cookies maintain their shape while baking.
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Even Baking: Space dough balls 2 inches apart on the baking sheet; this allows the cookies to spread uniformly without merging together.
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Cooling Time: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks, preventing them from breaking apart.
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Customization Options: Experiment with different chocolate types or add nuts to create your unique twist on these decadent double chocolate peppermint cookies!
How to Store and Freeze Decadent Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe container, where they can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy these cookies warm, simply thaw them at room temperature before popping them in the microwave for a few seconds. This will revive the melty chocolate chips and delightful flavors.
Tip: Always ensure cookies are completely cooled before storing to prevent sogginess and maintain their decadent quality!
What to Serve with Decadent Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?
Indulge in a festive meal that complements the rich flavors of these delightful cookies.
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Peppermint Hot Cocoa: A warm and creamy drink that enhances the peppermint flavor, making every sip a delightful experience. It’s like a hug in a mug, perfect for cozy evenings by the fire.
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Eggnog: This classic holiday drink, with its creamy texture and festive spices, pairs wonderfully with the chocolatey goodness. The nutmeg and cinnamon notes add a lovely contrast to the rich cookies.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side balances out the rich chocolate and peppermint flavors, creating a delightful temperature contrast that’s simply irresistible.
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Chocolate Milkshake: Rich and frosty, a chocolate milkshake takes the sweetness to a new level. This combination is a hit for both kids and adults, turning snack time into a treat.
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Caramel Pecan Tart: The nuttiness of pecans and sweetness of caramel complement the chocolate cookies perfectly, offering a variety of textures and flavors for a whimsical dessert spread.
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Fruit Platter: Brighten your dessert table with a platter of seasonal fruits like strawberries and oranges, providing a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies. Their juiciness cleanses the palate beautifully between bites.
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Warm Spiced Tea: Sip on a comforting cup of spiced tea with hints of cinnamon and clove to uplift your spirits while pairing elegantly with these sugary treats. It warms the soul and enhances the holiday vibe.
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Milk: Sometimes, the simplest things are the best. A cold glass of milk elevates the experience, offering a classic pairing that every cookie lover can appreciate.
These delightful options will not only elevate your dessert experience but also create a warm and inviting atmosphere for holiday gatherings!
Make Ahead Options
These Decadent Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 72 hours in advance, simply storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Before baking, allow the dough to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes for easier scooping. Additionally, you can melt the white chocolate and crush the peppermint candies ahead of time, storing them separately at room temperature until you’re ready to drizzle and decorate your cookies. By prepping these components ahead, you’ll save time without sacrificing quality, ensuring your cookies taste just as delicious when served!
Decadent Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make these cookies your own with these delightful twists!
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Dark Chocolate: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate for a rich, slightly bitter depth that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
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Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch and extra flavor. The crunch pairs wonderfully with the soft cookie texture.
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Minty Comparison: Use crushed peppermint meringues instead of candies for a more delicate crunch and a stunning visual twist.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the dough for a surprise heat that complements the chocolate and mint perfectly.
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Fruit Infusion: Mix in dried cranberries or cherries for a touch of fruity sweetness and a chewy texture, adding another layer of flavor to each bite.
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Chocolaty Drizzle: Instead of white chocolate, drizzle with dark chocolate or even a caramel sauce for a decadent finishing touch that will mesmerize your taste buds.
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Holiday Swap: Exchange the peppermint extract with orange zest or extract to celebrate a different holiday vibe, offering a refreshing citrus contrast.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten-sensitive friends while keeping all the chocolatey goodness intact.
Decadent Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose ripe ingredients for my cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, particularly butter, ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing. For eggs, you want large, fresh ones that are free from cracks. As for the chocolate chips, choose high-quality semi-sweet chocolate for the best melt and flavor.
How should I store leftover cookies?
I recommend storing any leftover Decadent Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep them fresh for up to 5 days. Just make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain their chewy texture.
Can I freeze these cookies, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze these cookies! First, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature, then microwave for a few seconds to regain that fresh-baked warmth.
What if my cookie dough turns out too dry or too sticky?
Very! If your dough is too dry, you can add a teaspoon of milk at a time until it reaches the right consistency. Keep in mind to avoid adding too much as the dough should still hold its shape. Conversely, if it’s too sticky, simply dust your hands with a little flour while shaping the cookies. Also, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can help!
Are these cookies safe for pets and those with allergies?
Great question! While these Decadent Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are a delicious treat for us, they should not be given to pets, especially due to the chocolate content. Additionally, those with allergies to eggs, dairy, or gluten should consider substituting with flax eggs, dairy-free chocolate, and a gluten-free flour blend respectively. Always check your specific ingredient labels for cross-contamination warnings!
Indulgent Decadent Double Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- cookie scoop
- microwave-safe bowl
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 1 cup Unsalted Butter softened
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
- 2 large Large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
- 3/4 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
- 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract adjust according to taste
For Topping
- 1 cup White Chocolate Chips
- 1/2 cup Crushed Peppermint Candies or candy canes
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by vanilla and peppermint extract.
- Whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, then fold in chocolate chips.
- Scoop rounded dough balls onto the prepared sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes until edges are set and centers look soft.
- Let the cookies cool slightly before transferring to wire racks.
- Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth.
- Drizzle melted white chocolate over cooled cookies and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies before the chocolate sets.
Notes
Nutrition
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