Name: Irresistible Chocolate Peppermint Cookies for a Festive Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour; 1/2 cup Cocoa Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 cup Butter (or Coconut Oil) (softened); 1 cup Brown Sugar; 1/2 cup White Sugar (consider reducing for less sweetness); 1 large Egg (acts as a binder); 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (ensure it's fresh); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 cup Chocolate Chips (variety) (milk, dark, or mint chips); 1/2 cup Extra Chocolate Chips (for drizzling); 1/2 cup Mini Candy Canes (crushed for topping)

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As the winter chill sets in and twinkling lights adorn every corner, the scent of baking cookies fills my kitchen, creating a harmonious holiday vibe. There’s something incredibly comforting about whipping up a batch of gluten-free Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, especially when they combine the richness of chocolate with the invigorating hint of peppermint. These delightful cookies are not only easy to prepare, but they also serve as a perfect festive treat for cookie trays or exchanges. With their fudgy, brownie-like texture and that delightful crunch from candy canes, they’re sure to become a cherished addition to your holiday baking repertoire. Ready to elevate your seasonal gatherings? Let’s dive in!

Why Bake Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?

Irresistible, festive flavor: The harmony of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a delightful cookie that embodies the holiday spirit.

Easily gluten-free: Using gluten-free flour allows everyone to indulge without worry, making it perfect for gatherings.

Quick and simple: With just a few straightforward steps, you can whip these cookies up in no time, leaving you free to enjoy the festivities!

Crowd-pleaser: Their chewy brownie-like texture and crunchy candy cane topping make them a hit at cookie exchanges.

Customizable options: Feel free to explore variations with dark chocolate chips or even a dash more peppermint for those who love an extra kick!

These cookies are a must for your holiday baking lineup, perfect for enjoying with a warm drink or gifting to friends. Enhance your cookie collection with these tasty treats—just like my Chocolate Chip Banana Yogurt Snack Bars are always a crowd favorite!

Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Ingredients

• Gather up these holiday essentials to create your scrumptious cookies!

For the Cookie Base

Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour – Provides the foundation for the cookie; regular flour can be swapped if gluten isn’t a concern.
Cocoa Powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor and color; ensure to whisk to avoid clumps.
Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise slightly; essential for that perfect texture.
Salt – Enhances flavor balance; don’t omit, as it complements the sweetness.
Butter (or Coconut Oil) – Contributes to a tender texture; coconut oil can replace for a dairy-free option.
Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of molasses flavor; coconut sugar is a good alternative if you prefer.
White Sugar – Sweetens the cookies while balancing texture; consider reducing for less sweetness.
Egg – Acts as a binder, giving structure to the cookies; no direct replacements suggested.

For the Flavor

Peppermint Extract – Provides that signature minty flavor; ensure it’s fresh for the best taste!
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to the flavor profile.

For the Sweetness and Texture

Chocolate Chips (variety) – Use milk, dark, or mint chips for extra flavor; these add gooey texture.
Extra Chocolate Chips – Used for drizzling on top for a decorative touch.
Mini Candy Canes – Crushed for topping, these add a festive crunch; sprinkles can also enhance the look.

These Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are ready to grace your holiday table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This preparation ensures your cookies will bake evenly and release easily once done. While the oven heats, gather your ingredients to streamline the process—keeping everything within reach will make this fun!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until fully combined. This step is crucial for your Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, as it prevents clumping and ensures all the dry components work together beautifully. Set this flour mixture aside as we move on to the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. This creates a tender base for your cookies, enhancing their delightful texture. Once mixed, it’s time to add the liquid ingredients.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Crack in the egg and pour in the peppermint extract and vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients into your butter and sugar blend until fully incorporated, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The combination of peppermint and vanilla adds a lively flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the chocolate.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture using a spatula, mixing just until a smooth dough forms. Avoid over-mixing, as you want your dough to remain fluffy and chewier. Once the dough is ready, it’s time to make it even more indulgent by adding the chocolate chips.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in your choice of chocolate chips—whether you prefer milk, dark, or mint chocolate—until evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step not only enhances the flavor but also adds delightful bursts of chocolate in each bite of your Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.

Step 7: Scoop and Shape Cookies
Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each scoop. The spacing allows the cookies to spread while baking, ensuring they don’t merge together. Aim for a generous scoop to boast that delicious chewy texture.

Step 8: Bake for Perfection
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers appear slightly doughy. The cookies will firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them for that perfectly baked, fudgy result—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 9: Cool on Racks
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This step is essential to maintain the chewy texture of your Chocolate Peppermint Cookies while allowing them to stabilize.

Step 10: Drizzle with Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt additional chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Once the cookies have fully cooled, drizzle the melted chocolate over the top of each cookie for an elegant touch that will enhance both flavor and presentation.

Step 11: Add Candy Cane Crunch
Crush mini candy canes and promptly sprinkle them over the chocolate drizzle before it sets. This festive addition not only adds a delightful crunch but also embodies the holiday spirit, making your Chocolate Peppermint Cookies irresistibly festive and eye-catching for any gathering!

Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and tailor your cookies to your taste and dietary needs!

Dark Chocolate: Swap regular chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a deeper, richer flavor. The darker the chocolate, the more luxurious the treat!
Dairy-Free: Replace butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a completely dairy-free delight. Your loved ones will enjoy these just as much!
Minty Freshness: Adjust the amount of peppermint extract to suit your preference—more for those who love a strong minty punch! It’s all about what makes your taste buds dance.
Nutty Twist: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the dough for an added crunch. This twist adds a lovely texture and flavor profile.
Oatmeal Addition: Add rolled oats to the dough for a heartier cookie. They create a delightful chewiness that’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit more substance.
Chocolate Drizzle Variations: Experiment with white chocolate for a sweet, creamy drizzle that contrasts beautifully with the dark chocolate base. Try a coconut-flavored drizzle for a tropical twist!
Extra Holiday Cheer: Consider adding festive sprinkles or edible glitter on top of the melted chocolate drizzle for a splash of color and extra holiday spirit. You’ll be amazed at the visual appeal!

If you’re in the mood for more seasonal baking ideas, check out my delightful Chocolate Cranberry Cookies or give these delicious German Chocolate Cookies a try for an additional treat!

What to Serve with Gluten-Free Chocolate Peppermint Cookies?

These delightful cookies urge you to create a charming holiday spread that appeals to all senses.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: A rich, velvety hot chocolate pairs wonderfully with these cookies, enhancing their sweet and minty flavor.
Peppermint Bark: For an extra festive touch, offer peppermint bark alongside, complementing the cookie’s mintiness with a crunchy texture.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the fudgy cookies—perfect for a sweet indulgence!
Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh raspberries or strawberries, which add a refreshing burst of tartness that brightens each bite.
Espresso or Coffee: A rich espresso or cup of coffee balances the sweetness of the cookies, creating a harmonious after-dinner treat.
Christmas Fruitcake: For a classic holiday option, serve slices of fruitcake that offer a festive flavor contrast to the cookies’ chocolatey goodness.
Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station to dip these cookies, making for an interactive dessert experience sure to delight guests.
Mulled Wine: A warm glass of mulled wine with spices and citrus enhances the cozy atmosphere while pairing beautifully with the cookies.

Together, these options will create a festive table and elevate your experience around the holiday season.

Make Ahead Options

These gluten-free Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and then storing it tightly covered in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to develop beautifully. If you want to take it a step further, scoop the dough onto baking sheets and freeze the unbaked cookie balls for up to 3 months; simply bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute to the bake time. When you’re ready to enjoy these delectable cookies, just follow the baking instructions, and you’ll have fresh, festive treats that are just as delicious as if they were made on the spot!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh peppermint extract for the best flavor. Expired extracts can dull the refreshing taste of your cookies.

Butter Temperature: Ensure that your butter is softened but not melted; this is key to achieving the perfect chewy texture in your Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.

Avoid Overmixing: When incorporating dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies rather than the desired fudgy consistency.

Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; slightly underbaking (8-10 minutes) will keep them fudgy in the center.

Cool Completely: Let cookies cool completely before adding chocolate drizzle to prevent it from melting and mixing into your cookies.

Creative Variations: Experiment with different types of chocolate chips—milk, dark, or even mint chocolate—to discover new flavor dimensions in your holiday baking!

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Fridge: For extended freshness, transfer cookies to the fridge; they will stay fresh for about a week when properly sealed.

Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: To warm, place cookies in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. This will rejuvenate the fudgy texture of your Chocolate Peppermint Cookies!

Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right peppermint extract?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, always opt for fresh peppermint extract. Look for an extract that has a clear, sweet aroma without any off-putting scents. Checking the expiration date can also help ensure you’re using quality ingredients that truly shine in your Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.

How should I store my cookies to keep them fresh?
I recommend storing your Chocolate Peppermint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for 3-4 days. If you’d like to extend their life, you can transfer them to the fridge, and they’ll maintain their deliciousness for about a week. Always make sure the container is sealed well to prevent them from drying out!

Can I freeze my cookies, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Chocolate Peppermint Cookies, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a quick 15-20 seconds to restore their fudgy goodness.

What should I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
If your cookies turn out drier than expected, it may be due to overmixing the dough or baking for too long. To prevent this, remember to stop mixing as soon as everything is combined, and keep an eye on the baking time—8-10 minutes is the sweet spot! If they still seem dry, next time try adding a tablespoon of milk to the dough for extra moisture, or pull them out of the oven a tad earlier.

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Very! These Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are gluten-free, making them suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. If you or your guests have dairy allergies, simply substitute the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. Make sure to check every ingredient, like chocolate chips, to ensure they’re dairy-free if needed!

Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of gluten-free flour?
Absolutely! If gluten isn’t an issue for you, feel free to swap the gluten-free all-purpose flour with regular all-purpose flour. Just be aware that this will change the cookie’s texture slightly, and you may need to adjust your baking time a bit. Happy baking!