Jolly Peppermint Mocha Cookies Recipe for Holiday Magic

Sweet holiday memories sparkle through these delectable peppermint mocha cookies that blend rich chocolate and cool mint flavors.

Crisp winter afternoons call for something special straight from your kitchen.

Cocoa’s deep warmth mingles perfectly with refreshing peppermint notes in each delightful bite.

Soft edges and a crumbly center make these treats irresistible for seasonal celebrations.

Chocolate lovers and mint enthusiasts will absolutely adore this simple yet sophisticated recipe.

Dusted with crushed candy canes, these cookies promise a magical moment of pure seasonal joy.

Bake a batch and watch smiles light up around your festive table.

Peppermint Mocha Cookies Sweet Notes

• Super simple recipe that requires minimal baking skills, making it accessible for novice and experienced bakers alike, with straightforward steps anyone can follow.
• Minimal preparation time means you can quickly create delicious treats that will impress family and friends, ideal for spontaneous gatherings or last-minute dessert needs.
• Adaptable for multiple occasions like holiday parties, winter celebrations, cookie exchanges, or just a cozy weekend baking project with loved ones.

Ingredients for Peppermint Mocha Cookies

• Flour: Provides the base structure for the cookies.
• Cocoa Powder: Gives rich chocolate flavor to the cookies.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create a soft texture.
• Brown Sugar, Granulated Sugar: Provide sweetness and help with cookie caramelization.
• Chocolate Chips: Adds extra chocolate bursts throughout the cookies.

• Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and spread.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
• Espresso Powder: Deepens the chocolate flavor.

• Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds structure.
• Vanilla Extract: Provides a warm, classic flavor.
• Peppermint Candies: Adds festive peppermint crunch and decoration.

How to Bake Peppermint Mocha Cookies

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Crank your oven to 350F and grab a baking sheet.

Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfect cookie release.

Step 2: Create Dry Magic

• All-purpose flour
• Unsweetened cocoa powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Instant espresso powder

Mix these ingredients until they’re perfectly blended and looking chocolatey.

Step 3: Whip Up Creamy Base

• Softened butter
• Brown sugar
• White granulated sugar

Beat until the mixture looks fluffy and light.

Add one egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything looks smooth and incorporated.

Step 4: Merge Flavors Together

Slowly add your dry ingredient mixture into the creamy butter blend.

Stir gently until just combined.

Fold in chocolate chips for extra decadence.

Step 5: Shape And Bake

Use a spoon to drop cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet.

Leave space between each cookie.

Slide the sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until edges look set.

Step 6: Candy Crush Finish

Pull cookies from the oven and immediately sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top.

Transfer to a wire cooling rack and let them cool completely.

Tips for Peppermint Mocha Cookies Success

• Refrigerate the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking to enhance chocolate flavor and prevent spreading.
• Adjust crushed peppermint candy amount to match your preferred mint intensity, from subtle to bold.
• Experiment with dark, milk, or white chocolate chips to create different flavor profiles and textures.
• Remove cookies from the oven when edges are set but centers look slightly underbaked for a soft, chewy result.

Storing and Reheating Peppermint Mocha Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Keep fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap cookies individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
• Keep cookies in a sealed container at room temperature for 3-4 days, ensuring they remain crisp and delicious.
• Warm refrigerated or frozen cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300F for 2-3 minutes to restore their soft, fresh-baked texture.

Pairing Ideas for Peppermint Mocha Cookies

• Pair with Peppermint Hot Chocolate: Create a decadent drink companion by whisking rich hot chocolate with a splash of peppermint extract, mirroring the cookie's festive flavor profile and providing a warm, comforting counterpoint.
• Serve with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Complement the rich chocolate and peppermint cookies with a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream, creating a delightful temperature and texture contrast that enhances the dessert experience.
• Match with Espresso Martini: Elevate the cookie's coffee notes by preparing an espresso martini, blending vodka, coffee liqueur, and fresh espresso to create a sophisticated adult pairing that amplifies the cookie's deep, complex flavors.
• Accompany with Whipped Cream Topping: Top the cookies with a dollop of freshly whipped cream sprinkled with crushed peppermint, adding a light, airy element that balances the cookie's intense chocolate and mint characteristics.

Variations on Peppermint Mocha Cookies

• Dairy-Free Delight: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine for a dairy-free version that maintains rich flavor and texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to accommodate those with wheat sensitivities.
• Low-Sugar Alternative: Use monk fruit sweetener or stevia in place of traditional sugars to reduce overall sugar content while keeping the cookie's sweet profile.
• Mint Chocolate Chip Variation: Experiment with dark chocolate chips and add a drop of peppermint extract to intensify the mint flavor for true peppermint lovers.

FAQs

• What makes the chocolate flavor so rich in these cookies?

The combination of cocoa powder and espresso powder creates a deep, intense chocolate taste that adds complexity and depth to the cookie’s flavor profile.

• Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso powder?

Yes, you can substitute instant coffee for espresso powder, though the flavor will be slightly less intense. Use the same amount as specified in the recipe.

• How do I crush peppermint candies for topping?

Place unwrapped peppermint candies in a sealed plastic bag and use a rolling pin or meat mallet to gently crush them into small pieces. Aim for a mix of fine and chunky pieces for texture.

• Do I need any special equipment to make these cookies?

No special equipment is required – just standard mixing bowls, a baking sheet, parchment paper, and basic baking tools like a mixer or whisk will work perfectly.

Peppermint Mocha Cookies Recipe

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4.7 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Indulgent peppermint mocha cookies bring winter’s coziest flavors into a delightful chocolate-espresso treat. Rich cocoa, crisp peppermint, and smooth espresso combine in one irresistible cookie you’ll crave all season long.

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Ingredients

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Cookies Base and Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Leavening and Seasoning:

• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Sweeteners and Binding Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup crushed peppermint candies

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Instructions

1. Prepare the baking environment by heating the oven to 350F (175C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for optimal cookie performance.
2. Create a dry ingredient foundation by thoroughly whisking flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and espresso powder in a mixing bowl to ensure even distribution of flavors.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream butter with brown and granulated sugars until the mixture becomes light and airy, developing a smooth, creamy texture.
4. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into the butter mixture, blending until completely integrated and achieving a uniform consistency.
5. Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring carefully to prevent overmixing and maintain a tender cookie texture.
6. Gently fold chocolate chips into the dough, distributing them evenly to ensure a rich chocolate experience in every bite.
7. Using a tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing cookies to allow for slight spreading during baking.
8. Bake for 8-10 minutes, watching for set edges and a slightly soft center that indicates perfect cookie doneness.
9. Immediately after removing from the oven, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies across the warm cookies, allowing the residual heat to slightly melt the candy pieces.
10. Transfer cookies to a wire cooling rack, allowing them to cool completely and develop their final texture and flavor profile.

Notes

• Boost chocolate intensity by using high-quality dark cocoa powder for deeper, richer flavor.
• Experiment with different chocolate chip varieties like mint chocolate or white chocolate chips for unique taste variations.
• Ensure even baking by using a cookie scoop and rotating the baking sheet halfway through cooking time.
• Make these cookies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend for those with dietary restrictions.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 90 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg