As the year winds down, nothing feels cozier than baking peppermint hot cocoa cookies. These chocolate cookies peppermint bring together the nostalgic taste of hot cocoa with a refreshing mint twist. Whether you call them hot cocoa cookies peppermint or simply holiday magic, they’re a winter wonderland in every bite.
A Treat with Global Appeal
One reason we love peppermint hot cocoa cookies is that they transcend borders.
- Chocolate as a universal language: From European chocolatiers to American cocoa stands, chocolate remains one of the world’s most beloved flavors.
- Peppermint traditions: In Germany, peppermint sweets line Christmas markets; in the US, candy canes hang from trees; in Japan, mint-chocolate treats are a holiday favorite. Wherever you are, peppermint whispers “festive.”
- Cookies as comfort: The cookie itself has become an international symbol of warmth—whether enjoyed with tea, coffee, or cocoa.
This recipe blends these global loves into one irresistible treat, making it perfect for sharing across cultures, communities, and kitchens.
Recipe at a Glance
- Yield: 16–20 cookies
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (+ optional chilling)
- Bake Time: 10–12 minutes
- Skill Level: Easy to intermediate
Best for: Holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, gift boxes, or cozy evenings by the fireplace.
Your Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookies Shopping List
These ingredients will help you whip up the best hot cocoa cookies peppermint—rich, chewy, and loaded with marshmallows and candy cane crunch.
- 2 ¼ cups (280 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (40–50 g) unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed preferred)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- ¾ cup (150 g) packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup (160 g) chocolate chips (dark, milk, or white—choose your favorite)
- ¾ cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
- 1 cup mini marshmallows (or cut-up large marshmallows)
From Dough to Winter Wonderland: Hot Cocoa Cookies Peppermint Made Easy
1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats—this is especially important when working with peppermint candies, which can stick.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until fully blended. This step ensures the cocoa flavor is evenly distributed.
3. Cream the Butter & Sugars
In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer), beat softened butter with both sugars until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes. The mixture should look pale and creamy.
4. Add the Flavor Builders
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla and peppermint extract. The peppermint will be subtle at first but will bloom beautifully during baking.
5. Combine Wet & Dry
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter-sugar mixture on low speed. Stop once just combined—over-mixing can make cookies tough.
6. Fold in the Festive Magic
Fold in the chocolate chips, crushed candy canes, and marshmallows to create festive chocolate cookies peppermint dough.
7. Chill the Dough (Optional)
If you have the time, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to 2 hours. Chilling helps the cookies hold shape, enhances chocolate depth, and creates a chewier texture.
8. Shape & Bake
Scoop dough (about 2 tablespoons each) onto prepared trays, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are firm but centers still look soft.
9. Add the Finishing Touches
While cookies are still warm, press a mini marshmallow into the center. Drizzle with melted chocolate and sprinkle extra crushed peppermint for a bakery-style finish.
10. Cool & Serve
Let cookies cool for 5 minutes on the tray before transferring to a rack. Serve warm for maximum coziness—or store for later.
Pro Tips for Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookie Perfection
- Quality cocoa matters: Use quality cocoa for deeper flavor in your peppermint hot cocoa cookies.
- Peppermint balance: If you love strong mint flavor, increase peppermint extract for bolder hot cocoa cookies peppermint.
- Parchment saves the day: Candy canes melt and caramelize; parchment ensures easy removal.
- Customize to your taste: Try white chocolate chips for a snowy look, or swap marshmallows for fudge chunks.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze dough balls for up to 3 months.
How to Serve Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookies
These cookies aren’t just for eating—they’re for creating experiences.
- With Hot Beverages: Pair these chocolate cookies peppermint with Regency Cafe’s Classic Hot Cocoa or a frothy Winter Spice Latte for the ultimate holiday indulgence.
- As Gift Treats: Stack a few in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbon—an instant handmade gift.
- Holiday Tables: Serve alongside Gingerbread Men Cookies or Cinnamon Rolls to create a festive dessert spread.
- Family Traditions: Bake a batch while decorating your tree, or make them the centerpiece of your holiday cookie exchange.
Why Peppermint + Cocoa = Holiday Magic
The pairing of chocolate and peppermint isn’t just delicious—it’s symbolic.
- Chocolate represents warmth and indulgence.
- Peppermint adds brightness, a cooling contrast that awakens the senses.
- Together, they reflect the balance of winter: cozy nights indoors and the refreshing chill of frosty air outside.
Across cultures, this blend has been celebrated for centuries, making it more than just a recipe—it’s part of global holiday storytelling.
A Cozy Holiday Wrap-Up
At Regency Cafe, we believe every cookie should tell a story. Our peppermint hot cocoa cookies do just that—warm, chewy, and joy-filled. Whether you call them hot cocoa cookies peppermint or crave chocolate cookies peppermint, they’re the perfect holiday bite.”
Bake them, share them, savor them—and let these cookies bring warmth to your holiday season, wherever in the world you may be.
