Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe: The Holiday Cookie You Didn’t Know You Needed

Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe is the kind of holiday magic that reminds me of winter mornings in my grandma’s kitchen. The scent of chocolate mixed with the cool zip of peppermint always meant Christmas was near. We’d bundle up in flannel and sneak warm cookies off the tray before they even cooled. That first bite—crispy edges, gooey centers, and crushed peppermint crunch—still lives rent-free in my memory. In this article, I’m giving you the ultimate guide to creating this crowd-pleaser, packed with tips, tweaks, and irresistible holiday flavor. Whether it’s your first time or fiftieth, this recipe never fails.

Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe topped with crushed peppermint during baking

The Holiday Flavor Fusion of Peppermint and Brownie

Why Peppermint and Chocolate Just Work

You don’t have to be a flavor scientist to know that peppermint and chocolate are a match made in heaven. The coolness of mint cuts through the richness of chocolate, making each bite feel fresh instead of heavy. When crafting your Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe, understanding this balance is key. You’re not just making cookies—you’re orchestrating flavor contrast that keeps people reaching for “just one more.”

But it’s more than taste. Peppermint brings that nostalgic, candy-cane aroma that screams holidays. It’s comforting and exciting at the same time. Pair that with deep cocoa flavor, and you’ve got a seasonal staple that’ll steal the dessert table spotlight.

Craving more minty ideas? These White Chocolate Peppermint Cookies use the same cool burst of flavor with a creamy twist, while Frosted Christmas Brownies bring festive flair to fudgy treats.

Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe with crushed candy canes on top

Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe

A festive, fudgy holiday treat that combines rich brownie texture with cool peppermint crunch.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
0 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 170

Ingredients
  

  • Dry Ingredients
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Wet Ingredients
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1 cup chocolate chips or chunks
  • 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies for topping

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Cooling rack

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, flour, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
  4. Add eggs, vanilla, and peppermint extract. Mix until combined.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture. Stir until just combined.
  6. Fold in chocolate chips or chunks. Chill dough for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Scoop dough into balls and place on baking sheet. Bake for 9–11 minutes.
  8. Remove from oven and press crushed peppermint candies on top.
  9. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a rack.

Nutrition

Calories: 170kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 95mgPotassium: 80mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 120IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Chill dough for best results. Cookies freeze well after baking or as raw dough balls.

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Key Ingredients that Make This Recipe Shine

To nail your Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe, you’ve got to treat ingredients like VIPs. Start with high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder—it sets the chocolate tone. Real butter gives your dough that chewy richness, while brown sugar ensures it stays soft days later. And don’t skip the peppermint extract—a little goes a long way, so measure with care.

Eggs bring structure, vanilla smooths everything out, and crushed peppermint candies on top give a satisfying crunch. For an added edge, a sprinkle of sea salt enhances both chocolate and mint. Want your cookies extra fudgy? A small amount of melted chocolate in the batter never hurts.

Planning a dessert tray? Add these Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms for a peanutty counterbalance or Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies for an elegant twist.

Mastering the Peppermint Brownie Cookie Dough

Mixing Matters: From Wet to Wow

Cookie dough can be temperamental, but with this Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe, there’s a sweet science behind success. Start by creaming your butter and sugars until fluffy. This step introduces air and sets the texture. Next, slowly incorporate eggs, peppermint extract, and vanilla. Take your time—this is where flavor develops.

Now comes the dry mix. Whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt separately before folding them into your wet ingredients. Don’t overmix! That leads to tough cookies. A gentle hand keeps your dough soft and fudgy. Lastly, fold in chocolate chunks or chips for extra decadence.

Need a no-bake option to pair with these cookies? Try No-Bake Gingerbread Cheesecake Cups for a creamy holiday contrast.

Chill Time is Go Time

Here’s a secret pros know: chilling your dough is non-negotiable. The best Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe includes at least 30 minutes of chill time. Why? It allows the fats to solidify, which prevents spreading and creates those gorgeous crinkled tops. Chilling also intensifies the flavor.

Wrap your dough in plastic or scoop into balls before refrigerating. Either works, but pre-scooping saves time later. Once chilled, the dough is easier to work with, and you’ll get consistent results every time. Don’t rush this part—it’s the game-changer between good and great cookies.

Add variety to your cookie spread with Fudgy Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies or these adorable Easy Reindeer Cupcakes for a kid-friendly dessert duo.

Baking & Finishing Like a Pro

Getting the Bake Just Right

You’ve prepped your dough and chilled it—now it’s time to bake. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Drop your cookie dough balls at least 2 inches apart. They’ll spread just enough to give you chewy edges with soft centers, the hallmark of a killer Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe.

Bake for 9–11 minutes. Don’t wait for the cookies to look done; they should still look slightly underbaked in the center. They’ll continue cooking on the tray after removal. That’s how you achieve the rich, gooey middle that makes these cookies unforgettable.

Want to experiment with textures? These Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies offer a spiced alternative or mix it up with Cake Batter Puppy Chow for a crunchy treat.

Adding That Peppermint Pop

The final flourish of your Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe is all about visual appeal and crunch. Right after baking—while the cookies are still warm—gently press crushed peppermint candies or candy cane bits on top. They’ll melt slightly into the cookie surface, adding that festive red-and-white sparkle.

Optional but encouraged: drizzle melted white chocolate over the cookies for an upscale look. You could also dip half the cookie into chocolate and sprinkle with peppermint for a dramatic dessert tray presentation. These little extras turn simple cookies into show-stoppers.

Pair them with a mug of cocoa and a batch of Classic Christmas Toffee for the ultimate night-in.

Serving, Storing, and Sharing the Love

Best Ways to Serve & Enjoy

Now that your Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe is baked to perfection, it’s time to share—or not! These cookies are perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday gift tins, or a cozy night in with a blanket and movie. Their chewy, fudgy texture combined with that peppermint crunch means they’re equally loved by adults and kids.

Stack them in clear jars with ribbons, or serve warm with ice cream for a brownie-cookie-sundae hybrid. If you’re hosting, pair these cookies with a dessert board featuring Sugar Cookie Cheesecake and Easiest Gingerbread French Toast for brunch dessert perfection.

How to Store & Freeze for Later

One of the best parts of the Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe is that it stores beautifully. Once cooled, place cookies in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to 5 days. Add a slice of bread to the container to keep cookies soft—it’s an old-school trick that still works wonders.

For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a bag. Or freeze the dough balls raw and bake straight from frozen—just add 2 extra minutes to bake time. That means fresh-baked cookies anytime your peppermint craving strikes.

If you’re prepping a dessert freezer stash, throw in some Easy Cinnamon Sugar Blondies and nostalgic Butter Balls with Rice Krispies for variety.

And when it’s time to share? Let guests take home their own cookie kits. Print the Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe on a card and package dough balls in festive wrap. You’ll be everyone’s favorite host.

Stack of rich, fudgy peppermint brownie cookies with holiday sprinkles—ready to serve or gift.

Wrap-Up

There’s something magical about a well-made Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe. It’s a cookie, it’s a brownie, it’s a festive treat all rolled into one. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or savoring a quiet moment with cocoa, these cookies deliver that perfect holiday bite. From rich chocolate to cool peppermint crunch, each step in this recipe is crafted to help you create something memorable. Use this guide, experiment with toppings, and most importantly—make it yours. Bake, share, and enjoy every delicious, peppermint-filled moment.

FAQ’s

Can I use peppermint essential oil instead of extract?

No, peppermint essential oil is far more concentrated than extract and not always food-grade. Stick with peppermint extract for the best flavor and safety in your Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe.

How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking is key. It solidifies the fat and helps the cookies hold their shape, which is especially important in any Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. The texture may vary slightly, but the classic taste of your Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe will stay delicious.

What’s the best way to crush peppermint candies for topping?

Place the candies in a zip-top bag and crush them gently with a rolling pin. Smaller pieces melt into the cookie better and add a perfect crunchy finish to your Peppermint Brownie Cookies Recipe.

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