Peppermint Brownie Cookies

If you’re searching for a dessert that delivers the perfect harmony of refreshing mint and indulgent chocolate, look no further than Peppermint Brownie Cookies. These delightful treats combine the fudgy richness of brownies with the cool, crisp essence of peppermint in every bite. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or aiming to elevate your everyday cookie game, Peppermint Brownie Cookies provide an irresistible blend of flavors and textures that makes them a favorite for all occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect flavor fusion: The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a truly unforgettable taste experience.
• Decadently fudgy texture: These cookies have a chewy brownie-like center that melts in your mouth with every bite.
• Simple ingredients: Easy-to-find pantry staples come together to make a gourmet treat without fuss.
• Festive and versatile: Peppermint Brownie Cookies are great for holiday gatherings or just a cozy night in.
• Great for gifting: Wrapped in a pretty package, these cookies make an ideal homemade gift your friends and family will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Peppermint Brownie Cookies plays an essential role in crafting the perfect balance of rich, tender chocolate and cooling mint. Let’s break down the must-haves to get these cookies just right.

• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds deep chocolate intensity without overpowering.
• All-purpose flour: Provides structure, ensuring the cookies hold their fudgy texture.
• Butter: Brings richness and moisture, making the cookies wonderfully soft.
• Sugar: Balances the bitterness of cocoa with just the right sweetness.
• Peppermint extract: Gives the signature fresh mint flavor without adding extra moisture.
• Chocolate chips: Melt slightly into the batter for pockets of gooey chocolate bliss.
• Eggs: Bind all the ingredients and lend moisture and richness.
• Baking powder and salt: Help create a tender crumb and enhance all flavors.
• Optional crushed candy canes: For that festive crunch and a punch of minty texture on top.

Variations for Peppermint Brownie Cookies

One of the best things about Peppermint Brownie Cookies is how easy they are to adapt. Whether you prefer them more chocolaty, less sweet, or need to accommodate dietary needs, these variations keep the recipe fun and flexible.

• Double chocolate mint: Add extra chocolate chips or swirl melted chocolate on top for more decadence.
• Gluten-free option: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend without changing texture.
• Vegan version: Replace butter with coconut oil, eggs with flaxseed meal, and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
• Spicy peppermint: Add a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon for a subtle spicy twist that complements the mint.
• Nutty crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture and flavor complexity.

How to Make Peppermint Brownie Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, baking powder, and salt. This combination is the foundation that ensures your cookies will have that perfect fudgy texture and rich chocolate flavor.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step adds air to the batter, helping cookies stay soft but not cakey.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Peppermint Extract

Add eggs one at a time and mix in the peppermint extract. This evenly distributes moisture and infuses your dough with the signature minty aroma.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, taking care not to overmix to keep the cookies tender.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips and Candy Canes

Stir in chocolate chips for gooey pockets of chocolate. Optionally, sprinkle crushed candy canes into the dough or on top to add festive crunch.

Step 6: Bake Until Soft and Chewy

Scoop dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. Remove when edges are set but centers are still slightly soft for that perfect chewy bite.

Pro Tips for Making Peppermint Brownie Cookies

• Use high-quality cocoa powder: It makes a noticeable difference in flavor depth.
• Don’t overbake: Baking just until edges are firm preserves that chewy brownie-like texture.
• Chill your dough: Resting the dough for 30 minutes can improve shape and intensify flavor.
• Add peppermint extract carefully: A little goes a long way, so start small to avoid overpowering the chocolate.
• Use room temperature butter and eggs: This helps everything blend smoothly for even texture.

How to Serve Peppermint Brownie Cookies

Garnishes

Top your cookies with a light dusting of powdered sugar or finely crushed candy canes for extra festive flair. A drizzle of melted chocolate adds elegance and a deeper flavor burst.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies alongside a cold glass of milk or a cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy pairing. They also complement peppermint or mocha-flavored coffee beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange Peppermint Brownie Cookies in a holiday cookie platter with sprigs of fresh mint or edible holly for a stunning presentation. Wrapping a few in parchment tied with twine makes an inviting gift that feels personal and delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Peppermint Brownie Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them soft and fresh.

Freezing

If you want to make these cookies ahead of time, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Warm cookies briefly in the microwave or oven (around 10-15 seconds) to revive their soft texture and melt the chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.

FAQs

Can I substitute peppermint extract with fresh peppermint leaves?

Fresh peppermint leaves offer a subtle, different flavor and won’t provide the same concentrated mint taste as extract, so it’s best to stick with peppermint extract for that classic peppermint boost.

Are Peppermint Brownie Cookies gluten-free?

Traditional recipes use all-purpose flour, which contains gluten, but you can easily use a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free version.

Can I make these cookies dairy-free?

Yes, replacing butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine and using dairy-free chocolate chips makes these cookies suitable for dairy-free diets.

What is the best way to crush candy canes for garnish?

Place candy canes in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush using a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan until you have small, even pieces perfect for sprinkling.

Do Peppermint Brownie Cookies keep well over time?

They are best enjoyed fresh but stored properly in airtight containers, they can stay fresh for several days; freezing is ideal for longer storage without sacrificing texture.

Final Thoughts

Peppermint Brownie Cookies truly capture the magic of a cozy, comforting dessert with a playful twist of minty freshness. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself, these cookies are sure to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to delight in every fudgy, minty, chewy bite!

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