Introduction
There’s something magical about the holidays, isn’t there? The cozy evenings, twinkling lights, and the comforting aroma of baked goods filling the house. Among the endless holiday treats, Hot Cocoa Peppermint Cookies stand out as the perfect combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint. Imagine sipping hot cocoa by the fire, but instead of a mug, you’re holding a soft, fudgy cookie topped with creamy peppermint frosting and crunchy candy canes. Sounds dreamy, right?
If you’re ready to wow your family and friends with a treat that’s festive, easy to make, and absolutely irresistible, this recipe is for you.
1. Why You’ll Love Hot Cocoa Peppermint Cookies
These cookies aren’t just another holiday recipe—they’re a full holiday experience wrapped in chocolate and peppermint. With a chewy texture, cool minty flavor, and the crunch of candy canes, they’re the edible version of a cozy mug of hot cocoa. They’re festive enough for parties yet simple enough for weeknight baking.
2. Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about this recipe is that it uses simple, accessible ingredients.
For Cookies:
1 box Triple Chocolate Fudge Cake Mix
1/2 cup oil
2 eggs
For Frosting:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
Pinch of salt
2 teaspoons peppermint extract
6 teaspoons heavy whipping cream
4 cups powdered sugar
For Garnish:
Crushed candy canes
These ingredients combine for a balance of chocolate richness and refreshing peppermint that makes these cookies unforgettable.
3. Essential Tools for Baking
Before diving in, make sure you have:
A large mixing bowl
Electric mixer or stand mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
Cooling rack
Spatula
Think of these tools as your “holiday toolkit”—each one helps you create magic in the kitchen.
4. Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s a breakdown of the entire process:
Prepare the cookies:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine cake mix, oil, and eggs until just combined.
Scoop dough onto parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake for 9 minutes, then cool completely on a wire rack.
Prepare the frosting:
Whip butter for 8 minutes until light and fluffy.
Add salt, peppermint extract, cream, and 2 cups powdered sugar. Mix well.
Add remaining sugar and whip until creamy and smooth.
Assemble the cookies:
Spread frosting on cooled cookies.
Sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
5. Preparing the Cookie Dough
This step is surprisingly easy because you’ll use a cake mix base. Unlike scratch baking, cake mix ensures consistent results every time. Just remember not to overmix—the dough should come together but still feel soft.
6. Baking the Cookies
The magic happens in the oven. At just 9 minutes, the cookies come out soft and fudgy, almost like brownies in cookie form. Let them cool completely before frosting, or the icing will melt and slide right off.
7. Making the Peppermint Frosting
The frosting is where the holiday spirit really shines. Whipping the butter for a full 8 minutes may sound like a lot, but it creates a dreamy, cloud-like texture. The peppermint extract gives it that refreshing, cool kick—like a breath of fresh winter air.
8. Assembling the Cookies
This is the fun part! Spread a thick layer of peppermint frosting on each cookie, then sprinkle with crushed candy canes. The red-and-white colors instantly make them look festive and Instagram-worthy.
9. Tips for Perfect Hot Cocoa Peppermint Cookies
Use room temperature butter for frosting—it blends better.
Don’t skip the cooling step; warm cookies will ruin the frosting.
Crush candy canes just before decorating to keep them crunchy.
10. Variations and Creative Twists
Want to mix it up? Try these ideas:
Double Chocolate: Add chocolate chips to the dough.
Marshmallow Twist: Top cookies with mini marshmallows before baking.
White Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the frosting for a fancier look.
11. Storing and Freezing Instructions
These cookies keep well in an airtight container for up to 5 days. If you want to make them ahead, freeze the unfrosted cookies, then thaw and frost before serving.
12. Pairing Ideas: Drinks and Desserts
Pair your cookies with:
A cup of hot cocoa (double the fun!)
Peppermint lattes
Vanilla ice cream for a cold-and-warm combo
13. Kid-Friendly Baking Fun
Kids love crushing candy canes and decorating cookies. Make it a holiday tradition—let them “snow” the candy canes over the frosting. It’s messy, but in the best way possible.
14. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overbaking: Nine minutes may look underdone, but cookies continue to set as they cool.
Overmixing dough: This leads to tough cookies instead of fudgy ones.
Too much extract: Peppermint is strong—a little goes a long way.
15. Nutritional Information
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 9 minutes
Total Time: 29 minutes
Calories: 251 kcal per serving
Servings: Approximately 20 cookies
16. Conclusion
Hot Cocoa Peppermint Cookies are more than just treats—they’re a holiday memory in the making. With fudgy chocolate bases, fluffy peppermint frosting, and crunchy candy cane toppings, they bring joy to any festive gathering. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, these cookies are sure to spread holiday cheer.
17. FAQs
1. Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of cake mix for these cookies?
Yes, but it will require adjusting sugar, flour, and leavening agents. The cake mix makes it much simpler and foolproof.
2. Can I replace peppermint extract with mint extract?
You can, but mint extract has a stronger, slightly different flavor. Peppermint is more traditional for holiday cookies.
3. How do I keep candy canes from getting sticky?
Store decorated cookies in a cool, dry place. Adding them just before serving helps keep them crunchy.
4. Can I make the frosting ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the frosting a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just re-whip before spreading on cookies.
5. Can I turn this recipe into cookie sandwiches?
Absolutely! Place frosting between two cookies and roll the edges in crushed candy canes for a festive twist.
