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Perfect Peppermint Mocha Crinkle Cookies Recipe

Peppermint Mocha Crinkle Cookies - featured image

These fudgy, crackle-topped cookies combine rich chocolate with cool peppermint and a hint of espresso for the ultimate holiday treat. They’re budget-friendly, kid-approved, and perfect for cookie swaps or cozy nights by the fire.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup (65g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ teaspoons peppermint extract
  • 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
  • ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar (for rolling)
  • Optional: ¼ cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and instant espresso powder. Set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (3-4 minutes).
  3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Add vanilla and peppermint extracts; beat until combined.
  4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing on low or folding with a spatula until just combined. Dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
  5. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to 48 hours).
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Place powdered sugar in a small bowl (mix with crushed candy canes if using).
  7. Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough (about 1.5 tablespoons each) and roll into balls. Roll generously in powdered sugar to coat thickly.
  8. Place dough balls 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets. Bake one sheet at a time for 10-12 minutes, until tops are crackled and edges set but centers still soft.
  9. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Chill dough thoroughly for best crackle effect. Roll generously in powdered sugar. Do not overbake. Peppermint extract is strong—stick to measurement. For gluten-free, use 1:1 gluten-free baking blend with xanthan gum. For dairy-free, use vegan butter sticks.

Nutrition

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