Hot Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe

Warm, gooey, and packed with festive flavors, these hot chocolate peppermint cookies are here to sweeten your holiday season! Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in, hosting a cookie swap, or gifting some homemade love, this recipe is a must-try for all holiday bakers and cookie enthusiasts.

Read on to discover how to create these delicious treats, plus get handy tips to perfect your cookies every time.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies

These hot chocolate peppermint cookies combine the best of two holiday classics. Imagine the comforting warmth of hot chocolate paired with the refreshing zing of peppermint. Here’s why these cookies should make it into your recipe rotation:

• Rich and Gooey Texture: The ultimate melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Burst of Peppermint Flavor: Adds a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps with ingredients you likely already have!
• Perfect for Gifting: Beautifully festive treats that everyone will love.

Now, let’s bake up some holiday cheer!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients for about 24 cookies:

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt

Mix-ins and Toppings:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks
• 1 cup crushed peppermint candies (or candy canes)
• Mini marshmallows (optional but highly recommended)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, and mix well.

Step 3: Blend the Dry Ingredients

Use a separate bowl to whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until everything is well incorporated.

Step 4: Add the Mix-ins

Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and half of the crushed peppermint candies. This will ensure bursts of flavor in every bite.

Step 5: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop the dough into 1½-inch balls and place them on your prepared baking sheets. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 9–11 minutes or until the edges are firm and the centers look slightly undercooked. Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately press 2–3 mini marshmallows on top for that “hot chocolate” effect.

Step 7: Cool and Decorate

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While they’re still warm, sprinkle the remaining crushed peppermint candies, gently pressing them into the top of each cookie.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve these cookies warm with a glass of milk, a mug of hot chocolate, or your favorite holiday beverage.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cookies

• Chill the Dough (Optional): For thicker cookies, cover and chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking.
• Don’t Overbake: The cookies will continue to set as they cool, so don’t worry if they look slightly soft when you take them out.
• Crush Peppermints Easily: Place your peppermint candies in a resealable bag and use a rolling pin to crush them gently.
• Make Ahead: You can freeze the dough balls for up to 2 months. Simply bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.

Variations to Try

Feeling creative? Customize your cookies with these fun twists!

• Spicy Peppermint Cookies: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick.
• White Chocolate Lovers: Swap the semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate chips.
• Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of crushed walnuts or pecans to the cookie dough for extra texture.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix.

Why These Cookies Are a Holiday Essential

Whether you’re creating a holiday gift box or setting up the dessert table, these hot chocolate peppermint cookies are sure to impress. The combination of rich chocolate and fresh peppermint creates a nostalgic yet elevated flavor that’s perfect for the season.

Plus, they’re as fun to make as they are to eat, making them an excellent holiday activity for the whole family.

Create Your Cookie Magic

Now that you’re armed with this festive and delicious recipe, it’s time to head to your kitchen and bake up some joy. We’d love to see your creations! Share your cookie photos on Instagram with the hashtag #HolidayWithWagoo and tag us @WagooBakes.