Name: Thick Chocolate Peppermint Cookies for Holiday Bliss
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 52 min
Ingredients: 1 cup COLD unsalted butter (Provides moisture and structure); 1 cup Granulated white sugar (Adds sweetness and helps create a crisp edge); 2 Large eggs (Binds the ingredients together); 3/4 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder (Infuses rich chocolate flavor); 2 teaspoons Pure vanilla extract (Elevates the flavor profile); 1 teaspoon Peppermint extract (Infuses delightful peppermint flavor); 2 tablespoons Cornstarch (Enhances the texture); 1 teaspoon Baking soda (Acts as a leavening agent); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Balances the sweetness); 1 cup Cake flour (Ensures a soft, tender crumb); 1 cup All-purpose flour (Provides the structure needed for thick cookies); 1 cup Andes peppermint baking chips (Adds a refreshing peppermint flavor); 1 cup White chocolate chips (Contributes a creamy sweetness); 1 cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips (Balances the overall sweetness)

As the first notes of holiday music fill the air, I’m reminded of a time when my kitchen transformed into a cozy wonderland of delightful aromas and warm treats. That is precisely the feeling I aim to recreate with my Levain Bakery-Style Chocolate Peppermint Cookies. These holiday cookies are a breath of fresh air after too many takeout meals, offering rich chocolate flecks mingled with refreshing peppermint that’s perfect for a festive indulgence. You’ll love how easy they are to whip up, making them a great choice for cozy evenings spent with family or friends. Plus, their generous size means you can savor every gooey bite. Ready to bring a little holiday cheer into your home? Let’s dive in and make some magic with these irresistible chocolate peppermint cookies!

What makes these cookies so special?

Gooey, Indulgent Texture: Each cookie is a hefty 6 ounces, filled with a soft, fudgy center that melts in your mouth.
Festive Flavor Fusion: The rich chocolate pairs beautifully with refreshing peppermint, creating an irresistible holiday treat.
Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time, perfect for last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are sure to impress family and friends—just like my popular Maraschino Cherry Chocolate cookies, they’re a hit at any party!
Versatile Variations: Feel free to personalize them! Swap peppermint extract for orange for a unique twist, or use different chocolates for a delightful surprise.

Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

COLD unsalted butter – Provides moisture and structure; using room temperature butter will alter the texture.
Granulated white sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a crisp edge; for a chewier cookie, consider using brown sugar instead.
Large eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture; no substitutes are recommended for this recipe.
Unsweetened cocoa powder – Infuses rich chocolate flavor; for a deeper taste, opt for Dutch-process cocoa.
Pure vanilla extract – Elevates the flavor profile of the cookies; imitation vanilla can work but the taste will be different.
Peppermint extract – Infuses a delightful peppermint flavor that gives the cookies holiday cheer; adjust the amount to your preference.
Cornstarch – Enhances the texture, providing a soft and delightful bite; it’s recommended to use it as is.
Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent for that perfect lift; baking powder can substitute, but the texture may differ.
Salt – Balances the sweetness of the cookies; essential to enhance all flavors.
Cake flour – Ensures a soft, tender crumb; substituting with all-purpose flour may alter the cookie’s texture.
All-purpose flour – Provides the structure needed for thick cookies; make sure to measure accurately.

For the Chocolate Minty Goodness

Andes peppermint baking chips – Adds a refreshing peppermint flavor; if you can’t find them, you can chop up peppermint bark as an alternative.
White chocolate chips – Contributes a creamy sweetness; feel free to replace with dark or milk chocolate chips for a different taste.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips – Balances the overall sweetness of the cookies; consider mixing it with dark chocolate chips for a richer experience.

These Chocolate Peppermint Cookies will be the highlight of your holiday baking. Enjoy every gooey bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Levain Bakery-Style Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a stand mixer, add the cold unsalted butter and granulated sugar, then start mixing at low speed for 30 seconds. Increase to medium speed for 30 seconds, followed by medium-high speed for another 30 seconds until the mixture is creamy and light in color, signaling it’s ready for the next ingredients.

Step 2: Incorporate the Eggs and Extracts
Next, add the large eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Pour in the pure vanilla and peppermint extracts, continuing to mix until combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure all ingredients are well-blended and flavorful.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in the unsweetened cocoa powder, cornstarch, baking soda, salt, cake flour, and all-purpose flour. Use a low speed to prevent flour from flying, mixing until a thick dough forms and starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl, giving you a preview of the delicious texture to come.

Step 4: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the Andes peppermint baking chips, white chocolate chips, and semi-sweet chocolate chips using a spatula. This step is crucial to ensure each bite of your Levain Bakery-Style Chocolate Peppermint Cookies is packed with festive chocolatey goodness, so take your time to mix evenly.

Step 5: Chill the Dough
Once your cookie dough is well mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for 20 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the flavors meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, resulting in that thick, indulgent consistency.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 410°F (210°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring you have a clean surface ready to hold your hefty cookie dough balls that will soon transform into delightful Chocolate Peppermint Cookies.

Step 7: Shape and Bake the Cookies
Scoop out generously sized 6-ounce balls of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 3 inches between each ball. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are still soft—this creates that signature gooey interior your cookies are known for.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool for at least 30 minutes on the sheet. This is an important step as the cookies will be fragile when hot, and allowing them to cool properly ensures they develop that irresistibly soft texture throughout.

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Airtight Container: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their softness and flavor.

Refrigeration: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to 2 weeks; make sure they’re wrapped well to avoid absorbing odors.

Freezing: Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your chocolate peppermint cookies again, microwave them for 10-15 seconds or let them sit at room temperature for a while before serving.

Expert Tips for Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Consistent Sizing: Measure cookie dough using a digital scale for uniform 6-ounce balls, ensuring even baking and perfect thickness.

Cold Butter Essential: Always use cold unsalted butter for the right texture; room temperature butter can cause your cookies to spread too much.

Refrigerate Dough: Chill the dough for at least 20 minutes before baking—this helps maintain the thickness and intensifies the flavors in your chocolate peppermint cookies.

Choose the Right Chips: Stick with Andes peppermint baking chips for the best flavor; avoid candy cane pieces as they may burn during baking.

Cooling Time Matters: Don’t rush the cooling process; allow cookies to rest on the baking sheet for at least 30 minutes to set properly and enhance texture.

Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Variations

Get ready to unleash your creativity and make these cookies your own with delightful twists!

Minty Matcha: Swap peppermint extract for matcha powder for a unique flavor that’ll surprise your taste buds. This twist will replace the classic peppermint freshness with a warm, earthy touch.
Spicy Chocolate: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dough for a festive kick. This contrast of heat with cooling peppermint creates a truly memorable cookie experience that will have everyone coming back for more.
Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts along with the chocolate chips for added crunch and depth. The rich, nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the chocolate and peppermint, enhancing every gooey bite.
Subtle Citrus: Replace peppermint extract with orange or lemon extract for a zesty holiday flavor. The bright citrus notes can elevate the festive spirit, making your cookies feel fresh and exciting.
Vegan Version: Use coconut oil instead of butter, flax eggs in place of large eggs, and dairy-free chocolate chips for a fabulous vegan take. These adjustments keep the flavor while making the treat accessible for everyone.
Chocolate Overload: Use only chocolate chips—dark, milk, or semi-sweet—without the peppermint for a chocoholic’s dream. The gooey richness will satisfy your sweetest cravings, ensuring every cookie is an indulgent delight.
Smaller Size: Portion out the dough into 3-ounce balls for bite-sized cookies; adjust the baking time to 6-8 minutes. These smaller treats are perfect for sharing and allow you to enjoy a little something sweet without the guilt.

Feel free to pair these cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa or perhaps alongside some of my delicious Oatmeal Chocolate Chip cookies for a delightful cookie platter that’s bound to impress!

What to Serve with Levain Bakery-Style Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Celebrate the magic of the holidays with these cookies, and complete your sweet experience with the perfect pairings.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: A rich, warm drink that enhances the chocolatey goodness while adding an extra layer of comfort. Enjoy sipping it alongside your cookies for a truly cozy experience.
Freshly Brewed Coffee: The smooth bitterness of coffee cuts through the sweetness, providing a delightful contrast that elevates the indulgence of your cookies.
Minty Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like oranges, apples, and berries tossed with a hint of mint to brighten the palate and balance the rich flavors.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Melt-in-your-mouth creamy ice cream adds a luscious texture, perfect for tackling the warm, gooey centers of your cookies. A scoop on the side is a blissful combination!
Milk: The classic choice! Whether you opt for whole, almond, or oat milk, this pairing always hits the spot, making every bite of your Chocolate Peppermint Cookies even more enjoyable.
Spiced Eggnog: Cozy up with a glass of spiced eggnog during holiday gatherings; its creamy texture and holiday flavors complement the cookies perfectly.
Chewy Caramel Squares: For a sweet surprise, serve homemade or store-bought caramel squares alongside the cookies for an added chewy, buttery delight.
Chocolate Dipped Fruit: Fresh strawberries or bananas dipped in chocolate create a delightful contrast, bringing fresh sweetness to your dessert spread.
Peppermint Bark: This festive treat echoes the peppermint flavor of your cookies, giving your guests an additional festive sweet to savor alongside your delightful creations.
Nutty Biscotti: These crunchy cookies offer a textural delight, balancing the richness of the chocolate peppermint cookies while providing a satisfying crunch in every bite.

Make Ahead Options

These Levain Bakery-Style Chocolate Peppermint Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it according to the recipe, then covering it tightly and refrigerating. This chilling step not only enhances the flavors but also helps prevent spread during baking, ensuring that each cookie remains thick and chewy. Additionally, you can portion out the cookie balls and freeze them for up to 3 months—simply bake them straight from the freezer by adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. When ready to serve, just pop them in the oven for that fresh-baked goodness, and you’ll have delicious cookies with minimal effort!

Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select peppermint extract?
Absolutely! When choosing peppermint extract, opt for pure peppermint extract for the best flavor. Look for a brand that lists peppermint oil as the primary ingredient, which ensures you’re getting all that refreshing taste without any artificial additives.

How should I store leftover cookies?
Very! Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To retain the best texture, consider placing a piece of bread in the container; this helps maintain moisture and keeps the cookies soft.

Can I freeze my chocolate peppermint cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze cookies, let them cool completely first. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. After they’re frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds.

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
I often recommend chilling the dough for at least 20 minutes to curb spreading. If the issue persists, check that your butter is indeed cold and not softened before mixing. The flour measurements should also be precise—too little can lead to flat cookies, so level off the flour with a knife for accuracy.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you have allergies, be mindful of using specific brands of chocolate chips, as they may contain dairy or nuts. For a nut-free option, carefully check labels to ensure they’re allergy-safe. Additionally, if you’re looking to keep sugar levels lower, consider substituting some granulated sugar with a sugar alternative suited for baking.