Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies

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Imagine the cozy flavors of peppermint hot chocolate transformed into a deliciously indulgent cookie. These Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies are soft, rich, and loaded with chocolatey goodness, topped with gooey marshmallows and a festive sprinkle of crushed candy canes. Perfect for holiday baking or any time you crave a comforting treat, these cookies will warm your heart and delight your taste buds.

Ingredients

Cookie Dough:

  • ½ cup melted butter – Adds richness and moisture.
  • 2½ cups chocolate chips – For a double dose of chocolate.
  • 1 cup brown sugar – Keeps the cookies soft and adds a deep sweetness.
  • 3 large eggs – Helps bind the dough.
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract – Infuses the cookies with festive flavor.
  • ¼ cup cocoa powder – Enhances the chocolate richness.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise.
  • 2 cups flour – Provides structure.

Toppings:

  • 30 large marshmallows – Halved for a gooey topping.
  • 30 small chocolate squares (about 3 ounces from regular-sized chocolate bars) – Adds a melty chocolate center.
  • ½ cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies – For a festive, crunchy finish.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  1. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and 1½ cups of the chocolate chips together in 20-second increments, stirring until smooth.
  3. Stir in the brown sugar until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the peppermint extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, baking soda, and flour.
  5. Fold in the remaining 1 cup of chocolate chips.

Step 2: Shape and Bake

  1. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  2. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.

Step 3: Add the Marshmallow and Chocolate

  1. Remove the cookies from the oven. While they are still hot, press a halved marshmallow onto the center of each cookie.
  2. Return the cookies to the oven for 2 minutes, or until the marshmallows begin to puff.

Step 4: Decorate

  1. Immediately press a small square of chocolate onto the marshmallow of each cookie.
  2. Sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies over the top while the marshmallow and chocolate are still warm.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

  1. Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  2. Serve warm or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

These Peppermint Hot Chocolate Cookies are the ultimate holiday indulgence, combining rich chocolate, gooey marshmallow, and refreshing peppermint. Perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or a cozy treat by the fire, these cookies capture the essence of the season in every bite. Share the joy with family and friends, or keep them all to yourself—we won’t judge!

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