When the hustle and bustle of the holiday season kicks in, I find myself craving something that captures the spirit of Christmas in every bite. Enter my Peppermint Brownie Cookies—an unexpected twist that blends rich, fudgy decadence with a fresh, minty twist! The moment you take a bite, you’ll be transported to a cozy winter wonderland, complete with twinkling lights and the scent of pine.
These cookies are not just a treat; they’re an experience! With their chewy brownie-like texture and the surprising crunch of crushed candy canes, they’re perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a hot cup of cocoa after a long day. Best of all? They come together in no time, making them a go-to option when you need to impress without the stress. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into making a batch that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why Are Peppermint Brownie Cookies So Special?
Uniquely festive: These cookies beautifully combine classic brownie indulgence with the festive cheer of peppermint.
Rich texture: Enjoy a thick, chewy cookie that feels decadent with each bite.
Quick to prepare: Just mix, bake, and enjoy in under 30 minutes for instant holiday magic!
Great for gatherings: A perfect crowd-pleaser, these cookies make delightful additions to cookie platters or holiday gift boxes.
Versatile flavors: Easily customize with different chocolate or candy toppings for a unique twist!
Peppermint Brownie Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure; can substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor; use Dutch-processed cocoa for a milder taste.
• Baking powder – Provides leavening; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
• Salt – Enhances flavors; essential for balancing the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter (melted) – Adds richness and moisture; can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens and contributes to texture; substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
• Brown sugar (packed) – Adds moisture and a slight chew; can use all granulated sugar if necessary.
• Large eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; an egg substitute can be used for egg-free options.
• Vanilla extract – Adds depth to the flavor; use pure extract for superior quality.
• Peppermint extract – Provides a festive minty flavor; adjust quantity based on preference as a little goes a long way.
For the Mix-ins
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips – Adds chocolatey goodness and texture; substitute with dark or white chocolate chips as desired.
• Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies – For topping and a decorative crunch; can omit or replace with festive sprinkles.
These Peppermint Brownie Cookies are sure to be the star of your holiday cookie spread!
How to Make Peppermint Brownie Cookies
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Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until they’re nicely combined. This blend sets the foundation for your cookies!
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until the mixture is glossy and smooth. Then, add in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well before carefully incorporating the peppermint extract.
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Combine Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be gentle—overmixing can lead to tougher cookies!
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Add Chips: Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Then, portion out the dough onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each dollop to allow for spreading.
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Bake: Press a few additional chocolate chips and some crushed candy canes on top of each portion, then bake for 10-12 minutes. You want them soft in the center for that chewy brownie texture.
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Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely and savor the festive aromas.
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Peppermint Brownie Cookies?
When it comes to enjoying these festive delights, consider pairing them with something that enhances their rich, minty flavor.
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Glass of Milk: The classic combo—milk complements the chocolate and mint, creating a nostalgic taste. The coolness of milk balances the sweetness wonderfully.
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Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of cocoa elevates the experience, especially on chilly nights. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for extra flair.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the chewy brownie cookies. It’s a harmonious marriage of flavors and temperatures!
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Peppermint Tea: For a lighter pairing, a warm cup of peppermint tea echoes the cookie’s minty freshness. It’s a cozy option that rounds out the holiday spirit perfectly.
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Fruit Platter: Fresh strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing burst and color. Their tartness cuts through the richness, creating a delightful balance.
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Eggnog: This festive drink pairs beautifully with the cookies for those who enjoy a traditional holiday sip. The creamy spice complements the mint perfectly.
These delightful pairings will ensure that your Peppermint Brownie Cookies shine at any holiday gathering!
Peppermint Brownie Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these cookies and cater them to your taste buds!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delightful gluten-free version. Enjoy the same rich flavors without the gluten!
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Dairy-Free: Replace unsalted butter with melted coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. You won’t lose any of that wonderful texture or taste!
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Extra Minty: Amp up the mint flavor by adding crushed peppermint candies directly into the dough. Each bite becomes a minty explosion that’s perfect for the holidays.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a surprising spicy twist. It beautifully contrasts the sweetness and adds complexity!
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added texture. This gives your cookies a delightful crunch alongside the chewy brownie base.
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Chocolate Lovers: Boost the chocolate factor by mixing in dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. The deeper flavor is a chocolate lover’s dream!
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Caramel Swirls: Add dollops of caramel sauce to the dough before baking for a luscious, gooey surprise in each cookie. It elevates your cookies to a whole new indulgent level!
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Festive Sprinkles: Top your cookies with festive sprinkles instead of crushed candy canes for a fun and colorful twist that brightens up your cookie platter.
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Brownie Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their chewy texture and flavor.
Fridge: For extended freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before serving to enhance their flavor.
Freezer: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, wrapped in plastic wrap, and placed in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.
Expert Tips for Peppermint Brownie Cookies
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Chill for Thickness: Chilling the dough for 20-30 minutes results in thicker, chewier cookies. It’s optional, but worth it for that perfect fudge-like texture.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise. Stale ingredients can lead to flat cookies that don’t have that desired brownie-like lift.
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Mix Gently: When combining ingredients, mix until just combined to avoid overmixing. This helps maintain the soft, chewy texture that makes these Peppermint Brownie Cookies a delight!
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Bake Accurately: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Removing them when they still look slightly underbaked ensures a softer center, giving you that unmistakable brownie feel.
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Customize Flavors: Feel free to swap in different chocolates or even nuts for a unique twist. Enhancing the classic peppermint flavor can take your cookies to the next level!
Make Ahead Options
These Peppermint Brownie Cookies are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy holiday treats without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This helps maintain their rich, fudgy texture. If you’re looking to make them further ahead, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. When it’s time to bake, simply thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight and scoop onto your baking sheet. Finish by baking as directed, and you’ll have freshly baked, delicious cookies to share with friends and family!
Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe FAQs
What should I consider when selecting peppermint?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose peppermint extract made from high-quality ingredients. Look for pure extracts rather than imitation ones for a richer taste that will elevate your Peppermint Brownie Cookies. If you prefer a stronger mint flavor, start with a little and gradually increase it to suit your taste.
How should I store leftover cookies?
To keep your Peppermint Brownie Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure they’re at room temperature before serving again, as this enhances their delicious flavor!
Can I freeze these cookies? If so, how?
Yes! Freezing is a wonderful option to enjoy your Peppermint Brownie Cookies later. Let the baked cookies cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds!
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If your cookies spread too much, the likely culprit is the melted butter that’s too warm or not chilling the dough long enough. To troubleshoot, try chilling your dough for 20-30 minutes before baking. This will help them maintain their shape and give you that perfect chewy brownie-like texture. Also, ensure you’re using fresh baking powder to help them rise properly!
Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Definitely! The basic recipe for Peppermint Brownie Cookies is nut-free, but always check your ingredients for any potential cross-contamination if you’re cooking for someone with nut allergies. Additionally, if you decide to add nuts for a variation, make sure to label your cookies clearly to avoid any misunderstandings.
Delicious Peppermint Brownie Cookies for Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until glossy and smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla, mixing well, then incorporate the peppermint extract.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be gentle to avoid overmixing!
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each dollop.
- Press a few additional chocolate chips and crushed candy canes on top of each portion, then bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.