Looking for a cookie that blends rich cocoa flavor with a refreshing hint of mint? Chocolate mint cookies are the perfect answer. These bakery-style cookies feature a soft and chewy chocolate base with just the right touch of cool mint — making them ideal for holidays, cookie swaps, or year-round indulgence.
With simple ingredients and quick preparation, these cookies offer a decadent twist on traditional chocolate treats. Whether you use peppermint extract, crushed mint candies, or chocolate mint chips, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of sweet and cool in every bite.
Ingredients
This recipe yields about 24 cookies.
Dry Ingredients
- One and three-quarter cups all-purpose flour
- Three-fourths cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- One teaspoon baking soda
- One-half teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- One cup unsalted butter, softened
- One cup granulated sugar
- One-half cup packed brown sugar
- Two large eggs
- One teaspoon peppermint extract
- One teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins
- One and one-half cups semisweet chocolate chips or chocolate mint chips
- Optional: One-half cup crushed mint candies (such as peppermint or Andes mints)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Chill time: 30 minutes
- Bake time: 10 to 12 minutes
- Total time: About 1 hour
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about two to three minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla and peppermint extracts.
Step 3: Combine and Fold
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and optional crushed mint candies using a spatula.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
- Cover the bowl and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them about two inches apart on the prepared sheets.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set and centers look slightly soft.
- Cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a glass of cold milk or cup of coffee.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert sandwich.
- Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed peppermint for an extra-festive touch.
- Package in cellophane bags for homemade holiday gifts.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Cookie (1 of 24) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 |
| Total Fat | 10 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 6 grams |
| Cholesterol | 25 milligrams |
| Sodium | 90 milligrams |
| Carbohydrates | 25 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sugars | 15 grams |
| Protein | 2 grams |
Key Benefits:
- Cocoa powder provides natural antioxidants and bold chocolate flavor.
- Mint extract delivers a fresh, invigorating twist without added sugar.
- These cookies are rich in flavor, making smaller portions satisfying.
- Optional crushed candies add crunch and visual appeal without altering texture.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality peppermint extract for best flavor; avoid artificial mint flavoring when possible.
- Chilling the dough prevents overspreading and enhances chewiness.
- Do not overbake — cookies continue to firm up as they cool.
- Substitute mint chocolate chips or white chocolate for creative variations.
Variations to Try
- Double Chocolate Mint: Add one-fourth cup mini chocolate chips on top before baking.
- Frosted Mint Cookies: Top with a thin layer of mint buttercream and a chocolate drizzle.
- Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil or plant-based butter, and use flax eggs.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend for a wheat-free treat.
These chocolate mint cookies are a refreshing and indulgent treat with timeless appeal. With chewy centers, rich cocoa depth, and a pop of peppermint, they are perfect for dessert tables, winter holidays, or any time you crave a flavor contrast.