Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

Hi, friends! Victoria here, so glad you’re here in my kitchen today. 🍽️✨

The holidays are just around the corner, and nothing says festive cheer quite like the stunning combination of rich chocolate and a cool burst of peppermint. But let’s be honest, baking can feel like a marathon sometimes. Between juggling family life and the endless to-do list, finding a recipe that’s both delicious and doable is a true holiday gift. That’s exactly why I’m so thrilled to share this perfect recipe for Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies. They look absolutely gorgeous on a cookie platter and taste even better, with a moist, brownie-like center and a magical crackle of snowy white powdered sugar. This is the one cookie recipe you’ll want to keep on your countertop all season long.

I’m Victoria—mom, home cook, and the heart behind Moms Meals Daily. 💛 I was born and raised in a cozy, food-loving family where meals weren’t just about eating—they were about connection, comfort, and creating memories. From a young age, I found joy in the kitchen, helping my mom whip up simple, nourishing meals that brought everyone to the table. While my life has taken many twists and turns, one thing has always remained constant: my love for food and family. That love grew even stronger when I became a mom myself. Between juggling little ones, busy days, and the never-ending “What’s for dinner?” question, I realized I needed meals that were easy, nourishing, and real—and I knew other moms did too. That’s how Moms Meals Daily was born: out of a passion for sharing doable, everyday recipes that bring joy without the stress. I’m married to my best friend and biggest supporter, who’s cheered me on every step of this journey (and is also my favorite taste-tester!). Together, we’re raising our family with love, laughter, and plenty of good food. Whether you’re a busy parent, a new cook, or just someone who loves wholesome meals made with care—I’m so glad you’re here. Welcome to my kitchen! 🍽️✨

Table of Contents

An Unforgettable Holiday Cookie

These Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies are an excellent fusion of a rich brownie and a classic Christmas favorite. Each bite is a little taste of happiness. The soft, fudgy interior bursts with deep chocolate flavor, while the peppermint extract provides a wonderful chill that perfectly complements the warmth of the cocoa. The crackled, snow-dusted surface is more than just beautiful; it adds a delightful texture that makes these cookies truly memorable. They’re the ultimate holiday treat, ideal for sharing with neighbors, bringing to a cookie exchange, or simply enjoying with a warm mug of cocoa on a chilly evening. You won’t believe how simple they are to make.

Ingredients (U.S. Standard)

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• ¾ teaspoon peppermint extract
• ½ cup powdered sugar, for rolling
• ½ cup granulated sugar, for rolling
• ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional)
• ½ cup crushed peppermint candy canes (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk or spatula
• Small cookie scoop or tablespoon
• Two baking sheets
• Parchment paper

Substitutions and Additions

• Flour: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, a 1-to-1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend can be used.
• Chocolate: Feel free to use bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate chips. Dark chocolate with a high cocoa content (85% or more) can add a deep, rich flavor that works fantastically with the peppermint.
• Fat: You can substitute the vegetable oil with melted butter for a different flavor profile.
• Peppermint: For an extra minty punch, add a drop or two more of peppermint extract. You can also mix crushed peppermint candies into the dough for a crunchy surprise.

How to Make Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

I’m telling you, this is a simple process! The secret to that beautiful, cracked surface is a good chill and a double-roll in two different sugars. Let’s do this!

1. Melt the chocolate. In a heat-proof bowl, combine your chocolate chips and butter (if using butter instead of oil). Melt the mixture gently over simmering water or in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring until silky and smooth. Let it cool slightly.
2. Combine the wet ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and eggs until the mixture is pale and thick, about 2 minutes. This important step creates a creamy base for your dough.
3. Mix in the chocolate and extracts. Whisk the melted chocolate mixture into the egg and sugar blend until everything is beautifully combined. Stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts. My family loves a strong peppermint flavor, so I’m always tempted to add an extra dash of the extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients. In a separate, medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gently fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
5. Chill the dough. This is the most crucial step for that signature crinkle. Cover your bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the dough is firm. This prevents the powdered sugar from dissolving into the dough.
6. Preheat and prep. Once the dough is chilled, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Roll in two sugars. Scoop out rounded tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball first in a bowl of granulated sugar, then a second roll in a generous coating of powdered sugar. This double-layer method is the secret to a perfect, snowy crinkle.
8. Bake. Place the sugar-coated balls on the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-14 minutes, until the cookies have puffed up and the edges are set. They should still be a little soft in the center. Let them cool on the baking sheet for at least 15 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.

What to Serve with Peppermint Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

These cookies are absolutely perfect on their own, but if you want to take things to the next level, here are a few ideas:

• Serve them with a warm cup of rich hot chocolate or a steaming peppermint mocha.
• Pair them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Present them on a platter with other classic holiday cookies like Gingerbread and Sugar Cookies.

Tips for Making It Perfect

• Don’t Skip the Chill Time! Chilling the dough is an essential step to achieve the beautiful crinkled look. If you don’t, the cookies will spread too much and the powdered sugar will melt right into the dough.
• Roll, Don’t Coat! Make sure you roll the dough balls in the granulated sugar first to create a barrier, and then generously coat them in powdered sugar.
• Don’t Over-bake! These cookies are best when they are slightly fudgy in the center. They will continue to set as they cool on the baking sheet.

Storage Instructions

Store these peppermint chocolate crinkle cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresh for longer, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to eat!

General Information

Peppermint and chocolate are a classic pairing, especially during the holiday season. The concept of “crinkle” cookies is said to have originated in the 1950s, with variations now including everything from red velvet to lemon. My family always used to crush candy canes in a big bag to make these, and the sound of the mallet was always my favorite part of the holiday prep!

Nutritional Information

(Note: This is an estimated nutritional breakdown.)
Calories: 190 kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 75mg | Sugar: 20g | Fiber: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions

Interactive Elements

I’d love to see your beautiful creations! Leave a comment below or tag me on Pinterest when you make these. https://www.pinterest.com/mommealsdaily

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