Peppermint Mocha Cookies Recipe

I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read.

If you love the taste of peppermint and crave the richness of mocha, you’re in for a treat. These peppermint mocha cookies combine the best of both worlds, with the refreshing taste of peppermint and the deep flavor of chocolate and espresso.

They are perfect for holiday cookie trays or any time you need a delicious winter treat. With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your home. Imagine enjoying one of these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate on a chilly day.

As you read on, you’ll find helpful tips and tricks to make these cookies even better. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and rewarding to make. So grab your ingredients and get ready to bake some amazing peppermint mocha cookies!

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

To make delicious peppermint mocha cookies, you will need a few key ingredients. Below are the exact ingredients and some possible substitutes to help you.

Ingredients:

• Butter (1 cup, unsalted): Provides richness and flavor.
  • Substitute: Margarine can be used, but the texture may differ slightly.
• Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Adds sweetness.
  • Substitute: Coconut sugar or brown sugar can be used, but they may alter the flavor.
• Brown Sugar (1 cup): Adds moisture and a deeper sweetness.
  • Substitute: More granulated sugar, though the cookies may be less moist.
• Egg (1 large): Helps to bind the ingredients.
  • Substitute: 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana per egg.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors.
  • Substitute: Almond extract for a different twist.
• Peppermint Extract (1 tsp): Gives the distinctive peppermint flavor.
  • Substitute: Crushed candy canes can be used for a more subtle flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 1/2 cups): Provides structure.
  • Substitute: Whole wheat flour, but it may make the cookies denser.
• Cocoa Powder (3/4 cup): Adds the mocha flavor.
  • Substitute: Dutch-processed cocoa for a richer flavor.
• Baking Soda (1 tsp): Helps the cookies rise.
• Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances sweetness.
• Espresso Powder (2 tsp): Intensifies the chocolate flavor.
  • Substitute: Instant coffee granules.
• Chocolate Chips (1 cup): Adds gooey chocolate bits.
  • Substitute: Chopped chocolate or flavored chips like mint or white chocolate.

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best result. Happy baking!

Instructions

1. 
   

   Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.

   
   
2. 
   

   Mix Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer with a paddle attachment. Beat together 1 cup of softened butter, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of brown sugar on medium high until fluffy and light in color (about 2-3 minutes).

   
   
3. 
   

   Add Wet Ingredients: Add one egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract to your sugar and butter mixture. Beat on high until combined.

   
   
4. 
   

   Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 2 teaspoons of espresso powder.

   
   
5. 
   

   Mix Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix your dough.

   
   
6. 
   

   Scoop and Bake: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Make sure to space them about 2 inches apart.

   
   
7. 
   

   Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are just set but the centers are still soft.

   
   
8. 
   

   Cool Down: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

   
   
9. 
   

   Decorate: Once the cookies are cool, melt 1 cup of white melting wafers in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 15-second intervals until smooth. Drizzle the melted candy over the cookies and sprinkle with crushed candy canes. Enjoy!

   
   

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Butter: Use soft unsalted butter for the best texture. It creams better with sugar and adds a smooth consistency to your cookies.

Cocoa Powder: You can use dark cocoa powder or black cocoa powder. Both work well and give a rich flavor to your cookies.

Espresso Powder: Substitute espresso powder with instant coffee if needed. Espresso powder will give a stronger coffee flavor.

Peppermint Extract: If you prefer a milder peppermint taste, you can use a combination of peppermint and vanilla extract.

Mixing: Use a stand mixer or hand-held electric mixer to cream the butter and sugar. This helps to get a fluffy and light texture.

Chilling the Dough: Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps in better shaping and prevents the cookies from spreading too much.

Storing

*Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for up to a week.

*For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. They can be stored for up to three months.

*To enjoy them warm, reheat frozen cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes or until warm.

Keep these tips in mind, and your peppermint mocha cookies will turn out perfect every time!

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

Trying to add your own twist to Peppermint Mocha Cookies? Here are some fun variations and serving ideas:

1. Add-ins:

• Chocolate Chips: Fold some chocolate chips into the dough for extra chocolate goodness.
• White Chocolate: Mix in white chocolate chips for a different flavor.
• Nuts: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for some crunch.

2. Toppings:

• Candy Canes: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for a festive touch.
• Drizzled Chocolate: After baking, drizzle melted chocolate or white chocolate over the cookies.
• Sprinkles: Add colorful holiday sprinkles on top before baking.

3. Flavor Twists:

• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm undertone.
• Extracts: Swap out peppermint extract for other flavors like almond or orange.

4. Serving Suggestions:

• Warm: Serve these cookies warm with a glass of cold milk.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Place a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream between two cookies.
• Gift Idea: Stack a few cookies in a festive tin or jar as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Trying out these variations and ideas can make your cookies even more delicious and enjoyable. Experimenting with different add-ins and toppings can help create a unique treat that everyone will love!