Dipped Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe

If you’re craving a festive treat that perfectly balances rich chocolate with a refreshing burst of peppermint, look no further than this Dipped Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe. These cookies deliver a soft, chewy texture with deep chocolate flavor enhanced by a hint of cool peppermint. Then, dipped in luscious dark chocolate and sprinkled with crushed candy canes, they become an irresistible holiday favorite that will quickly become a staple in your cookie rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work together to create these delightful peppermint chocolate cookies. Each component contributes something special, from the creamy butter providing richness to the peppermint extract giving that iconic fresh flavor.

• 1 cup butter, (2 sticks): Softened butter ensures tender, moist cookies with perfect richness.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with cookie spread and crisp edges.
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Provides deep caramel notes and chewier texture.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the dough ingredients together and add moisture.
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: Boosts the peppermint flavor without overpowering the chocolate.
• 2 cups flour, spooned and leveled: The structure for the cookie dough to hold everything together.
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted: Delivers rich, intense chocolate flavor and velvety texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps cookies rise slightly and keeps them tender.
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and amplifies flavors.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar, for rolling: Creates a sparkling sugar coating for a beautiful finish and slight crunch.
• 6-8 candy canes or 12 mini candy canes, crushed: Adds peppermint crunch and festive look for sprinkling and dipping.
• 1 (6-oz) cup dark chocolate chips: For dipping and amplifying the chocolate indulgence.
• 1 tablespoon shortening: Helps melt the chocolate to a glossy, smooth dip.

How to Make Dipped Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by creaming together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This key step traps air and creates the foundation for light, tender cookies. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the peppermint extract for that lovely seasonal flavor. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and kosher salt, then gradually combine with the wet ingredients until just mixed—be careful not to overwork the dough, or your cookies may toughen.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Once your dough is prepared, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling solidifies the fats, which helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and intensifies the minty chocolate flavors as they meld together.

Step 3: Shape and Roll in Sugar

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion your dough into balls about 1.5 inches in diameter. Roll each ball in the half cup of granulated sugar until fully coated—this adds a delightful sparkle and a slight crunch on the outside after baking. Place the dough balls on a lined baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart to allow for spreading.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Removing them at this stage is important because they will continue to firm up as they cool, leaving you with that perfect chewiness. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before dipping.

Step 5: Crush Candy Canes and Prepare Chocolate Dip

While the cookies cool, place the candy canes in a zip-top bag and crush them into fine pieces using a rolling pin or sturdy pan. Then, melt the dark chocolate chips with the tablespoon of shortening in a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, stirring every 20 seconds until smooth and glossy.

Step 6: Dip and Decorate

Dip half of each cooled cookie into the melted chocolate, letting any excess drip off. Immediately sprinkle the dipped portion with crushed candy canes for a delightful crunch and beautiful holiday flair. Place the cookies back on the wire rack or parchment paper and allow the chocolate to set completely before serving or storing.

How to Serve Dipped Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

A little extra sparkle goes a long way, so feel free to add a pinch of edible glitter or sea salt flakes on top of the chocolate before it sets. This gives a subtle crunch and makes these cookies look stunning for holiday gatherings or gift boxes.

Side Dishes

Pairing these cookies with a steaming cup of peppermint hot cocoa, rich espresso, or creamy eggnog enhances their festive charm and balances their intense flavor profile perfectly. They’re also a sweet contrast alongside fruit platters, adding indulgence to your snack table.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack these cookies in clear jars tied with a rustic ribbon for gorgeous homemade gifts, or arrange them on a decorative platter dusted with powdered sugar to mimic fresh snow. For a party centerpiece, place them around small candles or pinecones to amplify the cozy winter atmosphere.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Dipped Chocolate Peppermint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. This preserves their soft texture while preventing the peppermint candy from softening too much.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookies before dipping or after the chocolate has set. Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container with parchment paper layers between to avoid sticking. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months and thaw beautifully at room temperature.

Reheating

If you prefer warm cookies, heat them in a microwave for about 10 seconds or until just warm. Avoid overheating to prevent the chocolate from melting too much or the cookie from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use peppermint oil instead of peppermint extract?

Yes, but peppermint oil is much more concentrated, so use it sparingly—start with a drop and adjust carefully to avoid overpowering the cookies.

What if I don’t have candy canes for the topping?

You can substitute crushed peppermint stick candies or even finely chopped peppermint bark for a similar festive crunch and flavor.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for structure, or add a small amount yourself.

Is it necessary to use shortening in the chocolate dip?

While not mandatory, shortening helps create a smooth, shiny coating and prevents the chocolate from seizing. You can also substitute coconut oil if preferred for a subtle flavor twist.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure your butter is soft but not melted, and chill your dough well before baking. Also, avoid overmixing once you add the dry ingredients to keep the cookies thick and chewy.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you give this Dipped Chocolate Peppermint Cookies Recipe a try because it brings such warmth and festive joy with each bite. Whether baking for yourself, friends, or family, these cookies add a perfect peppermint-chocolate twist to your holiday traditions that everyone will rave about. Happy baking and even happier indulging!

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