There’s something magical about the holidays when two classic flavors—peppermint and chocolate—come together in one irresistible dessert. These Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies capture the essence of Christmas coziness: chewy, rich, and topped with a festive sprinkle of crushed candy canes. Inspired by the nostalgic comfort of sipping a warm cup of cocoa, this recipe transforms that familiar flavor into a treat perfect for sharing with loved ones. From the first bite, these cookies deliver pure holiday cheer, making them a must-have addition to your Homemade Cookies Christmas baking list. Sweet, minty, and melt-in-your-mouth—just like Christmas should taste.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies for a Cozy Christmas Treat

The Magic of Baking at Christmas

Every Christmas, my kitchen transforms into a winter wonderland filled with the aroma of melted chocolate and the soft crackle of candy canes being crushed. The heart of it all is a big bowl of dough for Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies. As the cocoa blends with butter and sugar, the scent instantly feels like a warm holiday hug. My family gathers around—some rolling dough, others sneaking chocolate chips while laughter fills the room.

I still remember that first year we tried these cookies; the snow was falling outside, and the oven’s warmth wrapped us in comfort. When the first batch emerged—soft, chewy, and perfectly chocolaty—everyone rushed for a taste. The cooling bite of peppermint balanced the deep fudge flavor, creating what quickly became our new favorite Chocolate Fudge Christmas Cookies. Over the years, the tradition stuck. Now, baking Chewy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies with my family is our way of marking the start of the holiday season.

The crunch of candy cane pieces and the sparkle of melted chocolate remind us that Christmas magic lives in the simplest moments—like passing a tray of freshly baked cookies and sharing stories by the tree.

What Makes Peppermint and Chocolate a Perfect Pair

Peppermint and chocolate have a timeless relationship—bold yet balanced, refreshing yet indulgent. The deep richness of chocolate offers comfort and warmth, while peppermint brings a refreshing coolness that wakes up the palate. Together, these flavors create a delightful contrast that instantly evokes images of peppermint bark, hot cocoa, and snowy winter nights.

In Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies, that harmony shines through with every bite. The fudge-like texture from cocoa powder combines beautifully with crushed candy canes, creating a mix of soft and crunchy sensations. This combination transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary, reminiscent of mugs of steaming cocoa shared beside twinkling lights.

It’s no wonder these cookies perfectly fit into the heart of Homemade Cookies Christmas traditions. Every chewy, chocolaty bite celebrates both nostalgia and flavor, reminding us that Christmas baking isn’t just about dessert—it’s about the joy, comfort, and connection that come with it. With a batch of Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies, you can taste the very spirit of the season.

How to Make Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies at Home

Ingredients for Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies

To make these Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies come to life, you’ll only need a few pantry staples and some festive peppermint magic. Dividing your ingredients into dry and wet categories helps everything come together smoothly.

Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour – provides structure and chewiness for your Homemade Cookies Christmas batch.
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – adds rich, deep chocolate flavor reminiscent of hot cocoa.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – ensures the cookies rise slightly while staying soft inside.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – balances sweetness and enhances chocolate notes.
Wet Ingredients:
- ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, softened – gives these cookies a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1 cup brown sugar – adds moisture and a subtle toffee flavor, perfect for Chocolate Fudge Christmas Cookies.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – sweetens and helps crisp the edges slightly.
- 1 large egg + 1 egg yolk – adds richness and binds everything together.
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – brings a warm, comforting aroma.
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract – infuses that signature holiday mint flavor.
Mix-Ins and Toppings:
- 1 cup semisweet or dark chocolate chips – boosts the decadent chocolate character.
- ½ cup mini marshmallows or marshmallow bits – channels that nostalgic “hot chocolate” touch.
- ½ cup crushed candy canes – adds crunch, color, and a burst of peppermint sparkle on top.

Each ingredient plays a key role: cocoa deepens the chocolate base, peppermint extract adds freshness, and the crushed candy canes provide texture and style. When baked together, the result is a cookie that perfectly mirrors the comfort and joy of Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies—soft, fudge-like, with little pockets of sweetness that melt in your mouth.

Step-by-Step Method for Perfect Homemade Cookies Christmas Baking

Preheat the oven and prepare your trays. Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment for even baking and easy cleanup.
Combine dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
Cream butter and sugars. Beat butter with both sugars until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes.
Add eggs and extracts. Mix in eggs, vanilla, and peppermint extract until smooth.
Mix wet and dry ingredients. Gradually combine them, stirring gently until just incorporated.
Fold in chocolate chips and marshmallows. Stir in mix-ins; reserve a few for topping before baking.
Chill the dough. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to improve texture and prevent spreading.
Shape and bake. Scoop 1 ½ tablespoon portions, place 2 inches apart, bake 9–11 minutes until edges are set.
Add crushed candy canes. Sprinkle immediately after removing from the oven so they adhere slightly.
Cool and enjoy. Cool 5 minutes, transfer to a wire rack, and serve.

Step	Action	Temperature / Time
Preheat Oven	—	350°F (175°C)
Chill Dough	—	30 minutes
Bake	—	9–11 minutes at 350°F
Cool	Room Temperature	5 minutes before transfer

Pro Tips for Success:

Use room-temperature butter for better creaming.
Measure flour accurately to avoid dense cookies.
Mix a tablespoon of hot cocoa mix in the dry ingredients for extra flavor.
Store cookies in an airtight container for one week, or freeze to enjoy later.

Baking Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies is more than just following a recipe—it’s creating a cozy ritual that fills your home with sweetness and joy.

Making Your Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies Special

Tips for Soft and Chewy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

The secret to perfect Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies lies in achieving that soft, chewy texture. Remove them from the oven slightly underbaked—the centers will firm as they cool. Brown sugar adds moisture and depth, while an extra egg yolk keeps the dough tender. For richer cookies, swap some chocolate chips with chopped dark chocolate and enjoy pools of molten fudge when warm.

Drizzling cooled cookies with melted white chocolate creates a snowy appearance and adds contrast. For extra festiveness, fold crushed peppermint candies into the dough or press a marshmallow half on top before baking for that “hot chocolate in cookie form” effect. To keep your Chewy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies soft, store them airtight with a slice of bread or freeze for up to three months.

Creative Ways to Serve and Gift These Christmas Treats

One of the joys of Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies is how perfectly they fit into any holiday celebration. Serve them warm alongside mugs of cocoa for cozy evenings or display them on a cookie board with Chocolate Fudge Christmas Cookies for a festive dessert spread.

They also make beautiful gifts. Stack several in clear treat bags, tie them with red-and-white twine, and add a candy cane or cinnamon stick for decoration. Or layer cookies between parchment in a mason jar labeled “Baked with love.” This easy Homemade Cookies Christmas gift spreads holiday cheer with every bite.

For a fun twist, fill a tin with these cookies, mini marshmallows, and cocoa packets to create a “hot chocolate dessert kit.” Mixing both Chocolate Fudge Christmas Cookies and Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies makes a thoughtful, flavorful assortment that’s equal parts warm, minty, and rich.

Frequently Asked Questions and Final Thoughts

FAQ Section

Can I freeze Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies dough? Yes! Roll into balls, freeze on a tray, then store airtight for up to three months. Bake straight from the freezer, adding 1–2 extra minutes to baking time. Perfect for spontaneous Homemade Cookies Christmas baking!

How long do these cookies stay fresh? Stored in an airtight container, Chewy Chocolate Peppermint Cookies stay fresh for 5–7 days. Add a slice of bread or marshmallow to keep them soft.

Can I use peppermint extract instead of crushed candy canes? Absolutely. Use about 1 teaspoon peppermint extract for a smooth, minty flavor minus the crunch.

How do I make them gluten-free? Substitute all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free mix and confirm your mix-ins are certified gluten-free. The result: perfectly fudgy Chocolate Fudge Christmas Cookies everyone can enjoy.

Are these cookies good for holiday cookie exchanges? Definitely! Their bright peppermint topping and chocolaty aroma make them a hit—an irresistible choice for any Christmas cookie swap.

A Cozy Christmas Ending

Few treats capture the holiday spirit like a warm batch of Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies. With their deep chocolate base, peppermint sparkle, and nostalgic comfort, they bring cheer to every gathering. Whether baked for loved ones or wrapped as thoughtful gifts, they turn simple moments into sweet memories.

So preheat the oven, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of cocoa and candy canes fill your home. Because true Homemade Cookies Christmas joy lives in the warmth, laughter, and every delicious peppermint-kissed bite.