Brownie Mix Peppermint Cookies

Peppermint Brownie Cookies are a festive delight, transforming a simple brownie mix into perfectly fudgy, chewy, and intensely chocolatey treats. This incredibly easy cookie recipe requires absolutely no chilling time, making it ideal for spontaneous holiday baking. After a quick bake, each cookie is dipped in luscious melted Andes mints and then crowned with crunchy crushed candy canes, creating an irresistible chocolate-peppermint combination that defines the holiday season.

Close up photo of chocolate peppermint cookies on a white plate on a red napkin, showcasing their fudgy texture and festive topping.

Indulge in the Spirit of the Season with Easy Peppermint Brownie Cookies

As the holiday season draws near, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies filling your home. These Peppermint Brownie Cookies are not just any cookies; they are a celebration of classic holiday flavors, combining the rich decadence of chocolate with the refreshing zest of peppermint. Imagine cozying up by the tree, sipping a warm cup of Crockpot Hot Chocolate, while your little ones eagerly pen their Letters to Santa, all with a plate of these delightful treats within reach. Or, envision bringing a tray of these vibrant, delicious Peppermint Brownie Cookies to your next holiday cookie swap and watching them vanish in record time!

What makes these chocolate peppermint cookies truly exceptional is their incredible simplicity. Starting with a doctored boxed brownie mix, this recipe streamlines the baking process, ensuring you can whip up bakery-level cookies in no time. With a mere 8 minutes of baking, you’ll have a batch of these fudgy, chewy, and chocolatey masterpieces ready to enjoy. Forget about complicated steps or extensive chilling; these easy holiday cookies are designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort, perfect for busy holiday schedules.

For those who love to plan ahead or simply can’t get enough of homemade goodness, consider doubling the Brownie Cookie batter. You can easily freeze half for later, allowing you to quickly prepare another batch of these festive treats or even create adorable Reindeer Cookies that your kids (and Santa!) will absolutely adore. These Peppermint Brownie Cookies are not just a recipe; they’re an invitation to create cherished holiday memories.

Close up photo of Peppermint brownie cookies on a red glittery surface, highlighting their festive appeal.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Peppermint Brownie Cookies

Creating these delightful chocolate peppermint cookies begins with a few simple additions to a standard boxed brownie mix, transforming it into a rich, fudgy cookie dough. You’ll need:

**Boxed Brownie Mix:** The foundation of our easy cookie recipe. While many brands work, we’ve had excellent results with Ghirardelli Double Chocolate Brownie Mix and Duncan Hines for their consistent quality and deep chocolate flavor.
**All-Purpose Flour:** A crucial addition to give the brownie mix the perfect cookie texture – chewy, not cakey.
**Large Eggs:** Essential for binding the ingredients and contributing to the fudgy consistency.
**Vegetable Oil & Water:** These liquids help achieve the ideal dough consistency and moisture content.
**Mini Chocolate Chips:** While optional, these tiny chocolate morsels enhance the chocolatey goodness throughout the cookie. Regular chocolate chips are too large and can alter the cookie’s structure, so opt for mini chips or omit them if unavailable.

The magic truly happens with the final touches, bringing in that signature holiday peppermint flavor:

**Andes Mints:** Melted Andes mints provide a creamy, minty chocolate coating that is both elegant and delicious.
**Crushed Peppermint Candies (Candy Canes):** A sprinkle of crushed candy canes adds a festive crunch and an extra burst of peppermint flavor, along with beautiful holiday color.

With these readily available ingredients, you’re well on your way to baking a batch of the best Peppermint Brownie Cookies for your holiday celebrations.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Fudgy Brownie Cookies

Making these Peppermint Brownie Cookies is a straightforward and enjoyable process. Follow these simple steps to create perfectly fudgy, chewy, and irresistibly chocolatey cookies:

Preparation is Key

Begin by setting your oven to preheat at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). While your oven heats up, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This crucial step prevents sticking and ensures your cookies lift off the pan easily, making cleanup a breeze.

Mixing the Perfect Brownie Cookie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, or the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine all the core cookie ingredients: the boxed brownie mix, all-purpose flour, large eggs, vegetable oil, water, and mini chocolate chips. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture forms a sticky, uniform dough. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically to ensure everything is evenly combined. The dough will be noticeably thick and sticky, which is exactly what you want for a fudgy brownie cookie.

Ingredients to make brownie cookies in a metal mixing bowl, showcasing the rich, sticky batter.

Baking Your Delicious Brownie Cookies

Once your rich brownie batter is thoroughly mixed, use a small cookie scoop (or a tablespoon) to drop portions of the dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Ensure you space them about 2 inches apart to allow for proper spreading during baking. For standard-sized cookies using a small scoop, bake for approximately 8 minutes. If you opt for a medium cookie scoop, you may need to add an extra 1 to 2 minutes to the baking time. It’s crucial not to overbake these cookies! They should have a thin, slightly set film on top, and the batter should no longer appear glossy, though you might still see small ripples of darker, fudgy batter. A slightly underbaked center guarantees that desirable fudgy texture. Every oven can vary, so consider baking a small test batch first to pinpoint your ideal bake time. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Brownie cookies on a parchment lined baking sheet, fresh out of the oven and cooling.

The Signature Peppermint Finish

The final step in creating these festive Peppermint Brownie Mix Cookies is all about the topping. Once your brownie cookies have cooled completely, it’s time to add that iconic minty chocolate layer. Melt the Andes mints according to package instructions or in a microwave-safe bowl in short intervals, stirring until smooth. Dip each cool brownie cookie halfway into the melted Andes mints, ensuring an even coating. Immediately after dipping, sprinkle each cookie generously with crushed candy canes. The vibrant red and white bits not only add a delightful crunch and burst of peppermint flavor but also give the cookies a beautiful, holiday-ready appearance. Allow the dipped cookies to set completely. To speed up this process, you can place them in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. Once set, your perfect holiday chocolate peppermint combination is ready to be enjoyed!

**Pro Tip for Topping:** If Andes mints are unavailable or you prefer an alternative, you can easily create a similar minty chocolate coating. Simply melt 1 1/2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips with 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract and 1/2 teaspoon of coconut oil. The coconut oil helps achieve a smoother, dippable consistency. Another excellent option is to add 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract to 10 ounces of chocolate melting wafers for a perfectly smooth and glossy finish.

A woman's hand holding a brownie cookie and dipping it in melted chocolate, ready for its festive topping.

Peppermint chocolate cookies on a white plate with a glass of milk next to it, inviting a delicious treat.

Frequently Asked Questions about Peppermint Brownie Cookies

Can you freeze Brownie Cookies?

Absolutely! Brownie cookies are excellent candidates for freezing. Once they’ve cooled completely, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze for about 30 minutes. Then, transfer them to an airtight freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. This method is perfect for enjoying some now and saving the rest for a future brownie craving or for effortlessly preparing more of these delightful Peppermint Brownie Cookies or even our fun Reindeer Cookies later! Thaw at room temperature or gently warm for a fresh-baked feel.

How long do Brownie Cookies keep for?

These homemade Peppermint Brownie Cookies, when stored in an airtight container at room temperature, will remain wonderfully fresh and fudgy for up to 5 to 7 days. However, based on their deliciousness, it’s highly likely they won’t last that long on your counter! For optimal freshness, enjoy them within the first few days.

What brownie mix can I use for these cookies?

Our recipe for these fudgy brownie cookies has been thoroughly tested and perfected using 18-ounce boxes of Ghirardelli Double Chocolate Brownie Mix and Duncan Hines brownie mix, both of which yield fantastic results. While many readers have reported success using Betty Crocker Brownie mix by adding one teaspoon of baking powder to prevent flat cookies (as Betty Crocker mixes sometimes lack this leavening agent), we have not personally tested this variation. Please note that using different brands or box sizes of brownie mix could potentially alter the texture and outcome of your cookies. Stick to 18-ounce boxes for the best results or be prepared to make minor adjustments.

What are the best tips for baking fudgy brownie cookies?

Achieving the perfect fudgy center in your brownie cookies is all about careful baking. These cookies cook quickly, and overbaking can easily lead to a dry, cakey texture instead of the desired fudginess. We recommend starting with an 8-minute bake time in a gas oven. You’re looking for a thin, set film on top, but the center should still look slightly undercooked and not glossy, with visible ripples of darker batter. They will continue to set on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven. For electric ovens, you might find 9 or even 10 minutes to be the sweet spot, but always test a couple of cookies first to find your oven’s precise timing. The dough is very thick and sticky, so use a sturdy paddle attachment for mixing – a whisk will not be sufficient. Also, avoid substituting regular chocolate chips for mini ones, as their larger size can affect the cookie’s structure; simply omit them if mini chips aren’t available.

Stack of four peppermint brownie cookies on a red surface, showcasing their height and beautiful topping.

More Festive Holiday Recipes to Enjoy

If you’ve fallen in love with the ease and deliciousness of these Peppermint Brownie Cookies, you’ll be thrilled to discover more holiday-inspired treats to add to your festive lineup! From classic bakes to effortless desserts, we have a recipe for every occasion. Be sure to explore:

Santa Hat Brownies – These adorable brownies are an instant hit, perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to your holiday dessert table.
Fudge Brownie recipe – For the pure chocolate lover, this classic fudge brownie recipe is perfect any time of the year, delivering rich, dense chocolatey goodness.
Classic Christmas Sugar Cookies – A beloved holiday tradition, perfect for decorating with the whole family. These cookies are as fun to make as they are to eat!
Crockpot Candy Recipe – Looking for an effortless dessert? This easy crockpot candy recipe requires minimal supervision and yields deliciously sweet results, great for gifting or snacking.
Cranberry Apple Cider Punch – Complement your sweet treats with this festive beverage. It’s a delightful and refreshing punch perfect for any holiday gathering or family meal.

These recipes are designed to help you celebrate the season with delicious flavors and cherished moments. Happy baking!

Let’s Connect! Share Your Peppermint Brownie Cookie Creations

We absolutely love hearing from you and seeing your wonderful baking creations! If you’ve tried this fantastic Peppermint Brownie Cookie recipe, please take a moment to let us know how much you liked it in the comments section below. Your reviews and feedback are incredibly valuable and help other home bakers discover new favorites.

Don’t forget to share your photos with us on social media! Tag us – @sugarandsoulco – on Instagram and Pinterest. You can also join our vibrant Sugar & Soul Show-offs Community on Facebook, where you can share your culinary triumphs, participate in fun recipe challenges, and connect with fellow baking enthusiasts. We can’t wait to see your festive chocolate-peppermint masterpieces!

Peppermint Brownie Cookies

Author
Rebecca Hubbell

Course
Dessert

Cuisine
American

Prep Time

5 minutes

Cook Time

10 minutes

Total Time

15 minutes

Servings

24
cookies

Rate

Peppermint Brownie Cookies start with a doctored brownie mix that makes them perfectly fudgy, chewy, and chocolatey! This easy cookie recipe requires zero chilling and after baking you dip them in melted Andes mints and top with crushed candy canes!

Ingredients

1 (18 oz.) box Ghirardelli Double Chocolate Brownie Mix
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
5 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon water
½ cup mini chocolate chips
10 ounces Andes Mints melted
crushed peppermint candies for topping

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine the brownie mix, flour, eggs, vegetable oil, water, and mini chocolate chips. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. The dough will be very sticky.
Using a small cookie scoop, drop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. (If using a medium cookie scoop, add 1 to 2 minutes to the bake time.)
Bake for 8 minutes to start. Cookies should have a thin film on top, and the batter should no longer be glossy, though small ripples of darker batter should still be visible. DO NOT OVERBAKE these cookies, as they can dry out quickly. Baking times can vary by oven, so test a small batch first.
Remove from oven and allow to cool on the baking pan for a couple of minutes before carefully transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cookies are cooled, melt the Andes Mints (in a glass or microwave-safe bowl). Dip each cookie halfway into the melted chocolate. Place on wax paper and immediately sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies. Allow them to set, or place in the fridge for 15 minutes to speed up setting.

Video Overview

A short video demonstrating the steps to make these delicious Peppermint Brownie Cookies can be found here. It visually guides you through the process, from mixing the batter to dipping and decorating the finished cookies.

Notes and Expert Tips

**Andes Mint Alternative:** If Andes mints are not available, you can easily substitute by melting 1 1/2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips with 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract and 1/2 teaspoon of coconut oil. This blend will create a smooth, minty chocolate coating.
**Brownie Mix Selection:** For optimal results, this recipe has been tested specifically with 18-ounce boxes of Ghirardelli Double Chocolate Brownie Mix and Duncan Hines brownie mix. Using other brands or different sized boxes may alter the final texture and consistency of the cookies.
**Cookie Yield:** When using a medium-sized cookie scoop, you can expect to yield approximately 2 dozen cookies from this recipe.
**Betty Crocker Mix Tip:** Betty Crocker brownie mixes sometimes lack baking soda, which can result in flatter cookies. Some readers have successfully counteracted this by adding 1 teaspoon of baking soda to the Betty Crocker mix. However, this has not been personally tested with this recipe.
**Baking Time Precision:** These cookies are particularly sensitive to baking time. They cook quickly, and even an extra minute can shift them from fudgy to cakey. For gas ovens, 8 minutes has proven to be the perfect duration.
**Underbaking for Fudginess:** To ensure a truly fudgy center, it’s best to remove the cookies from the oven when they appear slightly undercooked. They will continue to set as they cool on the baking sheet. If you have an electric oven, you might find that 9 or 10 minutes is ideal, but always perform a test batch to find the perfect timing for your appliance.
**Mixing Consistency:** The cookie batter is naturally very thick and sticky. For effective mixing, a stand mixer with a paddle attachment is recommended. Avoid using a whisk or a whisk attachment, as it will struggle with the dense dough.
**Mini Chocolate Chips are Key:** Regular-sized chocolate chips are generally too large for these cookies and can negatively impact their structure. If you don’t have mini chocolate chips, it’s better to omit them entirely rather than substituting with larger ones.

Nutrition Information

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