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If you’re searching for a cozy treat that captures the warmth of winter evenings and the festive spirit of the holidays, look no further than this Hot Cocoa Peppermint Cookies Recipe. These cookies are a delightful combination of rich chocolate flavor and refreshing peppermint, topped with a luscious creamy frosting and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes. Every bite tastes like a cup of your favorite hot cocoa, but in cookie form—soft, fudgy, and bursting with peppermint goodness. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or just indulging your sweet tooth, these cookies will quickly become your go-to seasonal favorite.

Hot Cocoa Peppermint Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple yet perfectly balanced ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the soft texture, the chocolatey depth, and the peppermint freshness that make these cookies so irresistible.

Triple Chocolate Fudge Cake Mix: This base gives the cookies their rich chocolate flavor without any extra fuss.
Oil: Helps keep the cookies moist and tender while baking.
Eggs: Bind everything together and provide structure.
Unsalted Butter (softened): Key for making the frosting smooth, creamy, and decadent.
Pinch of Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Peppermint Extract: Adds that refreshing holiday kick that makes the cookies unforgettable.
Heavy Whipping Cream: Gives the frosting a light, fluffy texture that spreads beautifully.
Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for the perfect consistency.
Crushed Candy Canes: The final festive touch with a sweet crunch and vibrant color.

How to Make Hot Cocoa Peppermint Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Ready your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper – this keeps your cookies from sticking and helps with even baking.

Step 2: Mix the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, combine the triple chocolate fudge cake mix, oil, and eggs. Stir just until everything is blended together; a gentle mix ensures the cookies stay soft instead of tough.

Step 3: Scoop Onto the Baking Sheet

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, place dollops of the dough evenly spaced on the lined baking sheet. Each cookie will spread a bit, so give them enough room to bake properly.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Bake the cookies for 9 minutes. When done, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely—this step is essential before frosting, as warm cookies can cause frosting to melt.

Step 5: Whip the Butter for Frosting

While the cookies cool, whip the softened butter in a bowl at medium speed for about 8 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. This creates the perfect base for a creamy, dreamy frosting.

Step 6: Add Flavors and Cream

Mix in the pinch of salt, peppermint extract, heavy whipping cream, and half of the powdered sugar. Start mixing on low speed to avoid sugar clouds, then increase to medium for several minutes. You’ll see the frosting start to come together with a silky texture.

Step 7: Finish Frosting

Gradually add the remaining powdered sugar, blending on low and then on medium speed until the frosting is smooth, thick, and spreadable. The consistency should be just right—soft enough to easily frost but firm enough to hold shape.

Step 8: Frost and Decorate

Generously spread the peppermint frosting on the cooled cookies. Immediately sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for a festive pop of color and crunchy texture that’s simply irresistible.

How to Serve Hot Cocoa Peppermint Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your cookies even more, consider adding a tiny drizzle of melted dark chocolate or a dusting of cocoa powder on top of the frosting before serving. Fresh mint leaves or whole small peppermint sticks also make for charming, aromatic garnishes.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a steaming mug of hot cocoa or a classic peppermint mocha. For an adult twist, serve alongside a glass of peppermint-spiked milk or a cozy cup of chai tea to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Hot Cocoa Peppermint Cookies Recipe on a festive platter surrounded by pine sprigs and mini candy canes. For parties, wrap individual cookies in clear cellophane tied with red ribbons – they also make perfect edible gifts that anyone will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Keep them separated by layers of parchment paper to protect the frosting and maintain their freshness.

Freezing

If you want to make these cookies ahead of time, freeze the baked, unfrosted cookies in a single layer on baking sheets, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. You can also freeze frosted cookies, tightly wrapped, to preserve the peppermint frosting. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To refresh frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour. If you prefer them slightly warm, pop them in the oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes—just avoid the microwave as it can soften the frosting too much.

FAQs

Can I use regular cake mix instead of triple chocolate fudge?

While you can substitute other cake mixes, the triple chocolate fudge variety really gives these cookies their rich, fudgy chocolate core. Other flavors might change the taste and texture significantly.

Is peppermint extract necessary?

The peppermint extract is what sets this recipe apart, lending that crisp, festive note. If you prefer, you can reduce the amount slightly, but omitting it will take away the signature peppermint punch.

How do I prevent the frosting from getting grainy?

Make sure to mix the powdered sugar and butter thoroughly and beat on medium speed for the recommended times. Using sifted powdered sugar can also help keep the frosting ultra-smooth.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

The base cake mix in this recipe contains gluten, but you can look for gluten-free chocolate cake mixes to substitute if needed. Just be aware that texture might vary slightly.

What’s the best way to crush candy canes for topping?

Place candy canes in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or the back of a heavy spoon. This method keeps the pieces large enough for crunch and visual appeal without turning into powder.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about baking cookies that capture the spirit of the season, and this Hot Cocoa Peppermint Cookies Recipe does just that. Soft, chocolatey, and bursting with festive peppermint flavor, these cookies are perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply indulging yourself on a chilly day. Once you try them, I’m certain they will become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. So grab your apron and get ready to fill your kitchen with delicious aromas and smiles!

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