Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies

When I first discovered these Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies, it felt like Christmas and winter coziness wrapped into one delicious bite. The rich chocolate with a cool hint of peppermint instantly took me back to evenings curled up by the fire with a warm mug of cocoa.

I remember the first time unexpected guests arrived right as I was pulling these cookies from the oven; the aroma alone had everyone ready to dig in before they even cooled.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: The sturdy base for these cookies that helps them hold their fudgy shape without getting cakey
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: I opt for cocoa powder that’s rich and dark to really punch up the chocolate flavor
• Unsalted butter: Softened to just the right consistency for easy mixing and that melt-in-your-mouth texture
• Granulated and light brown sugar: The combo adds sweetness and a touch of chewiness
• Peppermint extract: Use sparingly so it enhances but doesn’t overpower the chocolate
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: For those gooey chocolaty pockets that make every bite special
• Mini marshmallows: They toast slightly in the oven for that nostalgic hot chocolate feel
• Crushed peppermint candies: Sprinkle generously on top for crunch and holiday cheer

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper so your cookies won’t stick and cleanup stays breezy.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

Whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl to evenly distribute all the cocoa richness and leavening agents.

Cream Butter and Sugars:

Beat the softened butter with both sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes — you’ll smell that sweet buttery goodness begin to bloom.

Add the Peppermint Twist:

Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the butter mixture ensuring every bit blends into that perfect chocolaty canvas.

Combine Wet & Dry:

Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet, mixing just until everything comes together — resist overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Fold in Goodies:

Gently fold in your chocolate chips and half of the crushed peppermint candies, seeing the flecks of festive color makes this fun.

Shape the Cookies:

Scoop tablespoonfuls onto your prepared sheets spacing them about 2 inches apart to give them room to spread and puff.

First Bake and Marshmallow Magic:

Bake for 8 minutes, then carefully press mini marshmallows onto each cookie and return to the oven for another 2 minutes until the marshmallows are just melting and the cookies set.

Final Touches:

Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with the remaining crushed peppermint candies so they stick while everything’s still warm. Let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks for complete cooling.

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More than just a cookie, this recipe has been a centerpiece during celebrations with friends and cozy nights when I needed a comforting bite; it’s that warm, sweet moment turned edible.

Keeping It Fresh

These cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, but I find warming them slightly in the microwave revives that just-baked charm perfectly.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

Try serving these with a steaming cup of hot chocolate or a glass of cold milk to really highlight the peppermint and chocolate combo; it’s a combo that always gets rave reviews at parties.

A Time This Recipe Saved the Day

Once, during a hectic holiday party, I accidentally doubled the recipe and ran short on marshmallows; pressing them in midway and topping with extra peppermint saved the day and made for an unexpected tasty twist.

• Don’t be afraid to mix up the chocolate chips for dark or white chocolate to change the vibe
• Keep extra peppermint candies on hand for last minute decorating or gifting
• If you want thicker cookies, chill the dough before baking for a firmer shape

Save

Thanks for spending this kitchen time with me; these cookies have a way of turning ordinary days into cozy celebrations. Until next recipe, happy baking and sweet moments!

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How do peppermint candies enhance the cookies?

Crushed peppermint candies provide a refreshing, minty crunch that complements the rich chocolate and adds a festive flavor dimension.

→ What’s the best way to achieve fudgy cookie texture?

Underbaking slightly and using a combination of granulated and brown sugars help create a moist, fudgy texture in the cookies.

→ When should marshmallows be added during baking?

Marshmallows are pressed onto the partially baked cookies and returned to the oven briefly to melt gently without burning.

→ Can I substitute the semi-sweet chips with other chocolate types?

Yes, dark or white chocolate chips can be used to vary the flavor while maintaining melt-in-your-mouth richness.

→ How to store these cookies to retain freshness?

Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days to maintain softness and flavor.