Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe – A Festive Treat for the Holidays 🍪

Looking for a holiday treat that combines the richness of brownies with the refreshing twist of peppermint? Look no further! These Peppermint Brownie Cookies are the perfect mix of gooey chocolate, minty freshness, and a soft, chewy texture. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a family treat, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Made with simple ingredients, this recipe is easy to follow and requires no fancy techniques. The combination of peppermint and chocolate will make your cookies the star of any occasion. So, let’s dive into this festive recipe and make some Peppermint Brownie Cookies that will leave everyone asking for more!

Ingredients 🍴

Here’s a quick look at what you’ll need to make these delicious cookies:

Time and Servings ⏰

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Peppermint Brownie Cookies 🍪

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside for later.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer. The fluffy texture helps create a soft, chewy cookie!

Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until combined. The peppermint extract is the secret ingredient that will give these cookies their festive flavor!

Step 5: Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your cookies tough.

Step 6: Add the Chocolate Chips and Candy Canes
Fold in the chocolate chips and, if you’re using them, the crushed candy canes. The candy canes will add a lovely minty crunch to each bite.

Step 7: Shape the Dough
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly soft. These cookies will firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they look a little soft in the middle.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy!
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Peppermint Brownie Cookies with a hot cup of cocoa or your favorite holiday drink!

Recipe Notes 📝

• Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They’ll stay fresh and soft for a few days, thanks to the butter and chocolate.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet for 1 hour, and then transfer them to a zip-top bag for long-term storage. When you’re ready to bake, just add a couple of minutes to the baking time.
• Add-ins: Feel free to get creative with add-ins! Some suggestions include white chocolate chips, marshmallows, or even a swirl of peanut butter.
• Peppermint Flavor: Adjust the peppermint extract to your liking. If you love a stronger mint flavor, you can add a little extra peppermint extract.

Common Mistakes to Avoid ❌

• Overbaking: Be careful not to overbake the cookies. They should still be a little soft in the middle when you take them out. They’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet as they cool.
• Undermixing: Make sure the dry ingredients are fully incorporated into the wet ingredients. If you don’t mix well enough, you may end up with uneven texture in your cookies.
• Not Using Room Temperature Butter: For best results, your butter should be softened to room temperature before mixing. Cold butter doesn’t cream as well and could result in dense cookies.

Serving Suggestions 🍽️

These Peppermint Brownie Cookies are great on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with:

• Hot chocolate or peppermint mocha for a festive treat.
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream to make it a fun dessert.
• Serve them alongside a Christmas cake or fruit salad for a well-rounded holiday spread.

For a more festive dessert to complement these delicious Peppermint Brownie Cookies, try this Easter Cake Recipe for a sweet and vibrant addition to your holiday table!

Storage and Reheating 💾

• Storage: These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months for longer storage.
• Reheating: If you like your cookies a bit warmer, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. The chocolate will soften again, making them even more delicious.

Health Benefits 🥑

While Peppermint Brownie Cookies are a sweet indulgence, there are some benefits to the ingredients used:

• Peppermint can help with digestion and soothe stomach issues.
• Cocoa (in moderation) has antioxidants and is linked to heart health benefits.
• Butter provides a small amount of healthy fats, which are essential for energy.

Extra Tips to Make It Perfect ✨

• For more mint flavor: Top each cookie with a minty chocolate kiss or sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top before baking.
• For a richer taste: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a deeper chocolate flavor.
• Keep the dough chilled: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.

FAQs 🤔

1. Can I make these cookies without peppermint extract?
Yes! If you prefer not to use peppermint extract, you can make the cookies without it for a more traditional brownie cookie flavor.

2. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate will give the cookies a sweeter taste, while semi-sweet chocolate adds a rich, balanced flavor. It’s up to you!

3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the cookies gluten-free. Just make sure to also check the labels on the other ingredients.

4. Can I freeze the dough?
Yes! You can freeze the dough in cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a couple of minutes to the baking time.

5. How do I make these cookies chewier?
To get chewier cookies, try using brown sugar instead of white sugar, or add a tablespoon of honey to the dough.

Final Thoughts 🏁

These Peppermint Brownie Cookies are not just a delicious treat; they’re a perfect way to bring festive cheer to your home. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is sure to become a holiday favorite. Whether you’re sharing them with family or keeping them for yourself, these cookies will delight everyone who takes a bite.

Baking these cookies is a fun and rewarding way to add a bit of magic to your holiday season!