Peppermint Brownie Cookies bring a delightful twist to classic cookies. With their rich chocolate flavor and refreshing peppermint infusion, these cookies are perfect for holiday treats or cozy gatherings. As the festive season approaches, the combination of warm, fudgy brownie cookies topped with crunchy candy canes creates an enchanting aroma that fills your home with holiday cheer. I’ve often made these with family during winter, and they bring back warm memories of laughter and togetherness.
Why Make This Recipe
Peppermint Brownie Cookies are not just any cookies, they capture the essence of the holidays. Their fudginess, combined with the cool mint and crunch of candy canes, makes them irresistible. Perfect for holiday parties, cozy nights by the fireplace, or as a charming homemade gift, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser.
One of the best reasons to try this recipe is its simplicity without compromising on flavor. Even novice bakers can whip these up with ease.
"These cookies are always a holiday favorite in my home! The combination of chocolate and peppermint is just divine," says a satisfied home cook.
How to Make Peppermint Brownie Cookies
Creating these cookies is a straightforward process that results in a batch of heavenly treats. First, you’ll mix the dry ingredients, letting the cocoa and flour blend perfectly. In another bowl, the melted butter and sugars come together to form a creamy mixture, followed by the eggs and extracts that bring the cookies to life. Gradually, you will combine the dry and wet ingredients, folding in semi-sweet chocolate chips for that delightful melty richness.
Before baking, consider briefly chilling the dough for a fudgier texture. Once you scoop the dough onto your baking sheet, a sprinkle of crushed candy canes adds a festive touch. A quick bake in the preheated oven yields cookies that are firm around the edges yet soft in the center, perfect for enjoying warm.
Ingredients
Gather these items for your Peppermint Brownie Cookies:
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar (packed)
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon peppermint extract
¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
¼ cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
This list contains basic ingredients for your cookies. If you need to adapt the recipe, you can use gluten-free flour or substitute the peppermint extract with almond for a different twist.
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In another large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Mix until smooth and fully integrated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until the dough comes together.
- Then fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- For a more fudgy cookie, consider chilling the dough in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Use a cookie scoop to portion dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart.
- Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top of each cookie for a festive touch.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Remove them when the edges look firm, but the centers are still soft. They will continue to set as they cool.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Peppermint Brownie Cookies
These cookies shine on their own, but pairing them with a glass of ice-cold milk or a warm cup of cocoa elevates the experience. For an extra festive touch, consider serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can even stack a few on a decorative plate and gift them to friends or neighbors in pretty packaging.
How to Store
To keep your Peppermint Brownie Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will last for about 3 to 5 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Place cooled cookies in a resealable freezer bag, and they can stay fresh for up to three months. When you are ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw on the countertop.
Tips to Make
To achieve the perfect cookie texture, measure your flour accurately. Avoid packing it down in the measuring cup. If you like your cookies with a deeper chocolate flavor, you can use dark cocoa powder instead of unsweetened cocoa. Alternatively, tossing in some nuts like walnuts or pecans can provide a lovely crunch and depth.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with flavors! For those who enjoy a richer taste, try adding a swirl of peanut butter to the dough. You can also substitute white chocolate chips for a different sweetness or even incorporate orange zest for a bright, citrusy contrast. Seasonal sprinkles or different flavored extracts can give your cookies a unique twist for various occasions.
FAQs
What makes these cookies so fudgy?
The melted butter and the combination of granulated and brown sugar create a rich, moist texture, making them soft and fudgy.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! The dough can be frozen for up to three months. Just form into balls and store in a freezer bag.
Can I swap ingredients?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour or replace sugars with alternatives like coconut sugar for a different taste.
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I hope you enjoy making and sharing these Peppermint Brownie Cookies. They are sure to add joy and comfort to any gathering. If you want to discover more delicious recipes like this, be sure to follow me for updates!