Name: Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies for a Cozy Holiday Treat
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 72 min
Ingredients: 0.5 cups Semi-sweet baking chocolate (Feel free to use milk or dark chocolate for a different taste.); 0.5 cups Unsalted butter (Margarine can be a suitable substitute.); 1.25 cups All-purpose flour (A gluten-free blend can be used for a gluten-free option.); 1 teaspoon Baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Don’t skip this important ingredient.); 0.33 cups Dutch-process cocoa powder (Regular cocoa works but will be less intense.); 2 large Eggs (Helps bind the mixture.); 1 cups Light brown sugar (Dark brown sugar can deepen the flavor.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract; 0.5 teaspoon Peppermint extract (Imparts the refreshing peppermint flavor.); 1 cups Chocolate chunks (Any chocolate chips will also work.); 6 large Marshmallows (Substitute mini marshmallows if preferred.); 0.25 cups Crushed peppermint candy (Enhances the peppermint flavor.)

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Standing in my kitchen, the aroma of melted chocolate and zesty peppermint fills the air, instantly transporting me to cozy holiday gatherings. These Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies are more than just a recipe; they are a sweet symbol of togetherness, perfect for creating holiday cheer. With a simple mix of rich chocolate and festive peppermint, these cookies promise a delightful soft center topped with gooey marshmallows, making them an irresistible treat for anyone’s cookie platter. Plus, they’re incredibly quick to whip up, allowing you to savor every joyous moment of the season. Ready to indulge in a winter wonderland of flavors? Let’s dive into these delightful cookies that are bound to become your new Christmas favorite!

What Makes These Cookies So Special?

Irresistible Flavor: These Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies merge rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint for a taste explosion.

Gooey Goodness: Topped with melted marshmallows, each bite offers a delightful contrast between soft cookie and chewy topping.

Time-Saving Treat: Whip them up in no time for last-minute holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.

Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are fantastic on a cookie platter or as delightful gifts for friends and family.

Endless Customization: Feel free to play with flavors, like switching to orange extract, or add extra chocolate chunks for a richer experience.

Indulge in the holiday spirit with these unique delights and consider pairing them with a warm cup of hot chocolate or alongside our delicious Chocolate Croissant Bake for the ultimate winter treat!

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Semi-sweet baking chocolate – Adds rich chocolate flavor; feel free to use milk or dark chocolate for a different taste.
Unsalted butter – Provides moisture and richness; margarine can be a suitable substitute if needed.
All-purpose flour – Gives structure to the cookies; a gluten-free blend can replace it for gluten-free options.
Baking powder – Essential for making cookies fluffy and light.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; don’t skip this important ingredient!
Dutch-process cocoa powder – Brings a deep chocolate richness; regular cocoa works but will be less intense.
Large eggs – Helps bind the mixture and contributes to rise.
Light brown sugar – Adds caramel notes and moisture; dark brown sugar can deepen the flavor even more.
Vanilla extract – Introduces a lovely depth of flavor.
Peppermint extract – Imparts the refreshing peppermint flavor, crucial for these festive cookies.
Chocolate chunks – Delivers bursts of chocolate throughout the cookie; any chocolate chips will also work.

For the Topping

Large marshmallows – Create a gooey and delightful topping; you can substitute mini marshmallows if preferred.
Crushed peppermint candy – Offers a lovely garnish and enhances the peppermint flavor of these Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies.

Get ready to spread holiday cheer with these delightful treats that capture the essence of cozy, wintery vibes!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step ensures your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies bake evenly and don’t end up with unwanted mess. Set the sheets aside while you mix the dough, allowing you to move swiftly through the next steps.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate and Butter
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine half a cup of semi-sweet baking chocolate with a stick of diced unsalted butter. Melt the mixture in 30-second increments, stirring well after each session until smooth. Allow the melted chocolate mixture to cool slightly before using it in your cookie dough, ensuring the heat won’t scramble the eggs later.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Sift together one and a quarter cups of all-purpose flour, one teaspoon of baking powder, half a teaspoon of salt, and a third of a cup of Dutch-process cocoa powder in a large bowl. This step helps aerate the flour, leading to lighter cookies. Set the dry mixture aside as you transition to blending the wet ingredients in the next step.

Step 4: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a stand mixer, beat together two large eggs with one cup of light brown sugar, one teaspoon of vanilla extract, and half a teaspoon of peppermint extract until the mixture is well combined and slightly frothy. This creates a base of flavor and helps incorporate air, making your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies soft and delightful.

Step 5: Combine Chocolate with Wet Ingredients
Once the melted chocolate has cooled, slow the mixer down to low speed and gradually add the chocolate mixture to the egg and sugar combination. Mix until everything is thoroughly blended, creating a rich chocolate base that will contribute to the moistness of your cookies.

Step 6: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix the dry ingredient combination into the wet mixture using a spatula. Stir until the dough is just combined without overmixing. Gently fold in one cup of chocolate chunks, which will add delicious pockets of chocolate in every bite of your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies.

Step 7: Chill the Dough
Wrap your cookie dough tightly in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps firm up the dough, preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking, leading to perfectly shaped treats once they come out of the oven.

Step 8: Shape the Cookies
After chilling, scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the dough balls on the lined baking sheets, ensuring there is about 2 inches of space between each, allowing the Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies to spread slightly as they bake to a soft texture.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for approximately 9 minutes, or until they are slightly undercooked in the center. This slight uncooked appearance is intentional; they’ll continue to firm up once they cool, keeping that gooey chocolate center that makes these cookies unforgettable.

Step 10: Add Marshmallows
Remove the cookies from the oven and gently press half of a large marshmallow, cut-side down, onto the top of each cookie. Return the baking sheets to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes so the marshmallows melt just enough to create a gooey topping that brings warmth to your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies.

Step 11: Cool and Garnish
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool slightly. Once cooled, drizzle melted chocolate over the top and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candy for a festive finish. This final touch adds not only a burst of flavor but also a visually appealing crunch that beautifully complements the cookies’ soft centers.

What to Serve with Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies

As the captivating aroma of peppermint and chocolate fills your home, consider these delightful pairings to create the ultimate festive experience.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of rich hot chocolate enhances the cookie’s flavor, wrapping you in cozy sweetness. It’s the perfect sip alongside your warm treats, inviting you to indulge.
Spiced Apple Cider: This warm, spiced beverage brings a unique, fruity contrast to the cookies. The hints of cinnamon and clove elevate the festive atmosphere during holiday gatherings.
Festive Cheesecake Striped Bars: Serve these delightful bars for a sweet twist, boasting layers of creamy decadence that pair beautifully with the cookies’ soft texture.
Gingerbread Cookies: Classic and aromatic, gingerbread cookies complement the peppermint flavor with their spicy notes, offering a nostalgic yet refreshing Christmas touch.
Sugar-Coated Pecans: Their crunchy texture and subtle sweetness contrast the gooey cookie topping while enhancing the holiday feel, making them an exceptional side.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream piled alongside the warm cookies is heavenly. As it melts, it creates a fantastic, creamy dip for your cookies.
Milk: A tall glass of cold milk is a traditional pairing that never disappoints, cutting through the rich chocolate and delivering a satisfying balance.
Cranberry Orange Salad: This fresh and zesty salad brightens up the table, providing a burst of freshness that contrasts perfectly with the rich cookies.

With these delightful pairings, create a cozy holiday treat spread that your loved ones will cherish!

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies Customizations

Embrace your creativity with these Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies to suit every palate and diet!

Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to make these delicious cookies suitable for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil in place of unsalted butter and dairy-free chocolate chunks for a vegan-friendly treat that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Flavor Twist: Trade peppermint extract for orange extract to create a bright, citrusy variation that brings a unique flair to your holiday baking.
Marshmallow Swap: Use mini marshmallows for a fun twist or, for a gourmet touch, try flavored marshmallows like salted caramel!
Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the chocolate perfectly.
Extra Chocolate: Amp up the richness by adding more chocolate chunks or a mix of milk and dark chocolate for a layered chocolate experience.
Spiced Up: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spicy kick that elevates your cookie game.
Heat It Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder for an unexpected spicy chocolate delight.

Feel free to experiment with these variations and pair your cookies with a warm beverage, perhaps a cup of hot chocolate or a cozy mug of Chocolate Croissant Bake for the ultimate holiday experience!

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to keep them soft and delicious.

Fridge: If you want to extend their life, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week; just be sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies wrapped individually in plastic wrap and then in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before indulging.

Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until just heated through.

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies are fantastic for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to savor the holiday cheer without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it; this helps maintain its freshness and prevents spreading during baking. For longer storage, freeze the dough balls for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough directly on the baking sheets and add an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, your delicious Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies will be just as delightful when baked fresh, ensuring you can enjoy warm, gooey cookies whenever the mood strikes!

Expert Tips for Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies

Chill the Dough: Make sure to chill the cookie dough thoroughly; this helps prevent spreading and maintains a thick, chewy texture in your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies.
Cut Marshmallows Easily: Use kitchen scissors to cut the large marshmallows. This makes placing them on top quicker and more precise, ensuring an even gooey topping.
Scoop for Consistency: For even-sized cookies, use a cookie or ice cream scoop. This ensures all your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies bake uniformly, giving each one the same delightful texture.
Watch Baking Time: Bake the cookies until they are slightly undercooked in the center; they will continue to set as they cool, maintaining that signature gooeyness.
Store Smartly: Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right peppermint extract for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting peppermint extract, look for pure extract rather than imitation. Pure extract is more concentrated and will provide a richer, natural flavor to your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies. If you’re sensitive to peppermint, consider starting with half the amount and adjusting to taste.

How should I store leftover Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week; just let them come to room temperature before enjoying!

Can I freeze Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze these cookies, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky to handle, it might need a little extra chilling! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for an additional 15-30 minutes. If it’s still sticky after chilling, you can gradually incorporate a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency for shaping.

Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes! This Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies recipe is nut-free as it doesn’t require any nuts. However, always double-check the labels of your ingredients, especially chocolate and cocoa powder, to ensure they’re manufactured in nut-free facilities if allergies are a concern. Additionally, if you’re sharing these cookies with others, it’s always best to confirm their specific dietary needs!