Fudgy Peppermint Brownie Cookies

Short Description

Fudgy Peppermint Brownie Cookies combine the decadence of rich, chocolate brownies with the refreshing brightness of peppermint. These cookies offer the perfect chewy bite, making them a festive favorite during the holidays or a delicious treat any time of year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deep, intense chocolate flavor balanced with cool peppermint
• Fudgy, brownie-like texture with crisp edges
• Crushed candy canes add a delightful crunch and festive look
• Easy one-bowl preparation with minimal cleanup
• Perfect for holiday gifting, cookie swaps, or cozy nights in

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter
• Bittersweet or dark chocolate
• Granulated sugar
• Light brown sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Peppermint extract
• All-purpose flour
• Dutch-processed cocoa powder
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Crushed candy canes

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Melt the chocolate and butter together in a heatproof bowl using a microwave or double boiler. Stir until smooth and set aside to cool slightly.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
4. In a separate bowl, beat the sugars and eggs until light and fluffy.
5. Stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts.
6. Gradually mix in the melted chocolate mixture until well combined.
7. Fold in the dry ingredients until no flour streaks remain.
8. Scoop tablespoon-sized mounds of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each.
9. Top each cookie with a pinch of crushed candy canes.
10. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
11. Allow to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 20 cookies
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: 20–22 minutes

Variations

• Double Chocolate: Add chocolate chips for even more richness
• Mint Chocolate: Use mint extract instead of peppermint for a different flavor profile
• White Chocolate Swirl: Drizzle cooled cookies with melted white chocolate
• Gluten-Free: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
• Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder for depth

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days
• Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in layers with parchment between, or freeze dough balls and bake as needed
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore softness

FAQs

What gives these cookies their fudgy texture?

The combination of melted chocolate, butter, and minimal flour helps create a dense, brownie-like texture.

Can I use chocolate chips instead of chopped chocolate?

Yes, chocolate chips work fine, though chopped chocolate melts more smoothly.

What type of cocoa powder should I use?

Dutch-processed cocoa powder is ideal for a deeper, less acidic chocolate flavor.

Is chilling the dough necessary?

No chilling is required, though you can chill it for a thicker cookie if desired.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

How can I prevent the candy canes from melting too much?

Gently press the candy canes on top just before baking and avoid overbaking.

Can I make these cookies without peppermint?

Yes, simply omit the peppermint extract or replace it with more vanilla for a classic chocolate flavor.

How long will these cookies stay fresh?

They stay fresh for about 5 days in an airtight container at room temperature.

Are these cookies suitable for mailing?

Yes, once fully cooled, they can be packaged tightly and mailed as part of a cookie gift box.

Can I use natural cocoa powder instead?

You can, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly; Dutch-processed is preferred for richness.

Conclusion

Fudgy Peppermint Brownie Cookies are a festive, chocolate-lovers’ dream, delivering the rich satisfaction of a brownie in the convenience of a cookie. With their chewy texture, crisp edges, and refreshing peppermint crunch, they make a delightful addition to any dessert spread or holiday tradition.

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