When the holiday season rolls around, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of something sweet baking in the oven. This year, I’m sharing my cherished recipe for Peppermint Brownie Cookies. Growing up in Asheville, North Carolina, in a vibrant Mexican-American household, the kitchen was always bustling with energy, especially during the holidays. My mom would fill the house with the scent of freshly baked treats, and over time, I’ve developed my own holiday favorites, with these Peppermint Brownie Cookies topping the list. They’re a delightful fusion of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint, bringing together the best of both worlds in a single bite.
Why You’ll Love These Peppermint Brownie Cookies
These cookies are a harmonious blend of fudgy brownies and crisp, refreshing peppermint, making them perfect for the holiday season. The first time I made these, it was an impromptu bake-off with my cousins in our family kitchen, where we tried to outdo each other with creative cookie recipes. The Peppermint Brownie Cookies emerged as the winner, capturing everyone’s heart with their decadent chocolate flavor and cool peppermint finish. Whether you’re looking for a treat to share at a holiday party or a cozy night in with a cup of hot cocoa, these cookies are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients You’ll Need for These Peppermint Brownie Cookies
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t fret! You can substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer taste, or use peppermint bark instead of peppermint candies for an extra festive touch.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 180 per cookie
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 80mg
Peppermint Brownie Cookies: A Decadent Holiday Twist
Learn how to make delicious Peppermint Brownie Cookies. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t fret! You can substitute the semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer taste, or use peppermint bark instead of peppermint candies for an extra festive touch.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This step always brings back memories of my mom reminding me to “always start with a hot oven” for perfect cookies.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined, and don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be gentle to maintain the cookie’s tender texture.
- Stir in the chocolate chips and most of the crushed peppermint candies, reserving a bit for topping.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Press a few pieces of the reserved peppermint candies into the tops of each cookie for an extra festive look.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Peppermint Brownie Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This step always brings back memories of my mom reminding me to “always start with a hot oven” for perfect cookies.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined, and don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be gentle to maintain the cookie’s tender texture.
- Stir in the chocolate chips and most of the crushed peppermint candies, reserving a bit for topping.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Press a few pieces of the reserved peppermint candies into the tops of each cookie for an extra festive look.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Making the Best Peppermint Brownie Cookies
The secret to these cookies lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming, and don’t overmix the dough after adding the dry ingredients to keep the cookies tender. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a subtle kick that complements the chocolate and peppermint beautifully.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
There’s something magical about pairing these cookies with a warm beverage. I love serving them with a mug of Mexican hot chocolate, which adds a touch of nostalgia from my childhood. For an extra indulgent treat, sandwich a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies for a peppermint brownie ice cream sandwich that’s sure to impress.
Storage and Reheating Tips
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to make them ahead of time, they freeze beautifully too. Simply place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll keep for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in a 300°F oven for a few minutes to revive their fresh-baked goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Peppermint Brownie Cookies?
The main ingredients for Peppermint Brownie Cookies include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Peppermint Brownie Cookies?
The total time to make Peppermint Brownie Cookies includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Peppermint Brownie Cookies ahead of time?
Yes, Peppermint Brownie Cookies can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Peppermint Brownie Cookies?
Peppermint Brownie Cookies pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Peppermint Brownie Cookies suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Peppermint Brownie Cookies may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Creating Peppermint Brownie Cookies isn’t just about the end result; it’s about the memories you make along the way. From the laughter-filled kitchen of my childhood to the cozy evenings spent perfecting this recipe, these cookies hold a special place in my heart. I hope they bring as much joy to your home as they have to mine. So, gather your loved ones, preheat that oven, and let the festive baking begin!
