Name: Peppermint Bark Brownie Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips or melting wafers; 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies deliver everything you love about the holidays in one bite. They’re chewy and chocolatey like a brownie, yet decorated with peppermint bark flavors for a refreshing twist. They look beautiful on a cookie tray, are easy to make, and bring together the classic chocolate-peppermint combination that everyone craves during the season.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Unsalted butter
Semi-sweet chocolate chips
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Large eggs
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Cocoa powder
Baking powder
Salt
White chocolate chips or melting wafers
Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Melt the butter and semi-sweet chocolate together until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
In a bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Stir in the melted chocolate mixture.
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
Scoop dough onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 9–11 minutes, until the cookies are set but still soft in the center. Let them cool completely.
Melt the white chocolate and spread or drizzle it over the cooled cookies.
Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the white chocolate before it hardens.
Allow the topping to set, then serve and enjoy.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 cookies. Preparation takes 20 minutes, baking takes 10 minutes per batch, and you’ll need about 10 minutes more for cooling and decorating.

Variations

Use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet for an even richer flavor.
Add peppermint extract to the cookie dough for extra peppermint intensity.
Dip half of each cookie in white chocolate instead of covering the top.
Swap peppermint candies for festive sprinkles if you prefer less mint.
Make sandwich cookies by spreading marshmallow fluff between two cookies.

Storage/Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them extra fresh, layer them with parchment paper. You can also freeze them (without the peppermint topping) for up to 2 months, then decorate after thawing. These cookies do not require reheating, but if you want a warm treat, microwave one for 10 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be made up to 24 hours in advance and kept in the refrigerator.

Do I have to use white chocolate on top?

No, you can skip it or use milk or dark chocolate instead.

How do I crush candy canes easily?

Place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin or mallet.

Can I use peppermint extract in the cookies?

Yes, add ½ teaspoon to the dough for a stronger peppermint flavor.

What kind of chocolate is best for the cookie base?

Semi-sweet chocolate works best, but dark chocolate is also delicious.

Can I freeze the cookies?

Yes, freeze them without the topping, then thaw and decorate later.

How do I keep the white chocolate from seizing?

Melt it slowly in short bursts in the microwave or over a double boiler.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Will crushed candy canes stay crunchy?

They may soften slightly over time but will still add flavor and texture.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just double the ingredients and bake in batches.

Conclusion

Peppermint Bark Brownie Cookies are the ultimate holiday treat, bringing together the fudgy richness of brownies with the cool crunch of peppermint bark. They’re festive, simple to make, and sure to stand out on any dessert table. Whether you bake them for a party, as a gift, or just to enjoy with family, these cookies will quickly become a holiday favorite.