Chocolate Peppermint Crunch Cookies are rich, fudgy chocolate cookies infused with peppermint flavor and topped with crunchy crushed candy canes. These festive cookies have a soft, chewy texture with a delightful minty crunch, making them perfect for holiday baking, gifting, or enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The perfect combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint.
- Soft and chewy texture with a crunchy candy cane topping.
- A festive holiday treat that’s great for cookie exchanges and gifts.
- Simple to make with basic ingredients.
- Can be customized with different chocolate and mix-ins.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cookies:
- All-purpose flour
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Unsalted butter, softened
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Egg
- Vanilla extract
- Peppermint extract
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the Topping:
- Crushed candy canes
- White chocolate (optional for drizzling)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
- Preheat oven: Set to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a separate bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add wet ingredients: Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until well combined.
- Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Fold in chocolate chips.
Step 2: Bake the Cookies
- Shape the cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them on the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake: Bake for 9-11 minutes until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
- Add candy cane topping: Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle crushed candy canes on top while the cookies are warm.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Step 3: Optional White Chocolate Drizzle
- Melt white chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt white chocolate in 15-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Drizzle over cookies: Use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 18-20 cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Dark Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: Use dark cocoa powder for an intense chocolate flavor.
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Extra Minty Flavor: Stir in Andes mint chips or peppermint bark.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped toasted almonds or pecans.
- Double Chocolate: Use white and dark chocolate chips for a richer taste.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
- Reheating: Microwave a cookie for 5-10 seconds to slightly soften before eating.
FAQs
Can I use peppermint candies instead of candy canes?
Yes, crushed peppermint candies work just as well for the topping.
How do I keep my cookies soft?
Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.
Can I use peppermint oil instead of extract?
Yes, but peppermint oil is stronger—use only a few drops.
Do I need to chill the dough?
No, but chilling for 30 minutes can prevent spreading if your kitchen is warm.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.
How do I prevent the candy canes from melting too much?
Add them right after baking so they slightly stick but don’t fully dissolve.
Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips.
What’s the best way to crush candy canes?
Place them in a ziplock bag and crush them with a rolling pin.
Can I use white chocolate chips instead of a drizzle?
Yes, fold white chocolate chips into the dough for a different texture.
How do I make them extra festive?
Use red and green sprinkles or edible glitter for a holiday touch.
Conclusion
Chocolate Peppermint Crunch Cookies are the ultimate holiday treat, combining rich chocolate, cool peppermint, and a crunchy candy cane topping. Whether for Christmas gatherings, cookie swaps, or an everyday sweet indulgence, these cookies are a must-try. Enjoy them warm with a glass of milk or a cup of hot cocoa for the perfect winter treat!