Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups Recipe

Updated on: November 30, 2025

Delicious Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups ready for serving.

As the holiday season approaches, the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafts through homes, bringing a sense of coziness and joy. One sweet treat that embodies this festive spirit is the Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups. These delightful dessert bites combine the richness of chocolate with the refreshing hint of peppermint, making them perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie swaps, or simply to indulge yourself.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the delicious realm of Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups. From ingredient choices to step-by-step instructions, tips, and FAQs, we’ve got everything you need to make this delightful treat shine in your kitchen.

Table of Contents

What Are Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups?

For those unfamiliar, Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups are essentially bite-sized cookies shaped like little cups. They are usually made from a cookie dough base, filled with a creamy peppermint chocolate ganache or filling, and topped off with festive decorations like crushed peppermint candies.

The combination of the soft, chewy cookie with the smooth, luscious filling creates a harmonious texture and flavor profile that is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or preparing a gift for a loved one, these cookie cups are bound to impress.

Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups

Author: chef-joudia
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 24 cookie cups 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delightful bite-sized cookie cups filled with creamy peppermint chocolate ganache, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare muffin tin.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
Add egg and peppermint extract, and mix until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips.
Scoop dough into muffin tin, filling each cup halfway and pressing down lightly.
Bake for 10-12 minutes and press down centers to create cup shapes.
In a saucepan, heat heavy cream until simmering; pour over chocolate chips and let sit before stirring until smooth.
Once cookies are cool, fill each cup with ganache and chill for 30 minutes.
Decorate with crushed peppermint candies and optionally drizzle with melted white chocolate.

Notes

Store in an airtight container for up to a week. Ideal for holiday gifting and gatherings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie cup
Calories: 135
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 100mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: chocolate, peppermint, cookies, holiday, dessert

Ingredients Breakdown: What You Need

When crafting the perfect Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups, the ingredients you choose play a key role in the outcome. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need and why each component matters.

All-Purpose Flour: This is the base of your cookie cup. It provides structure and helps create the desired cookie texture. Using high-quality flour can significantly impact the final product.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: The heart of any chocolate cookie, unsweetened cocoa powder adds that deep, rich flavor and tint that makes these cookie cups so irresistible.
Baking Soda and Baking Powder: These leavening agents help the cookies rise during baking, ensuring they are soft and chewy.
Salt: Salt enhances the flavors of chocolate, making them taste richer and more complex.
Butter: Unsalted butter is crucial for both flavor and texture. It creates a delectable creaminess that complements the chocolate.
Granulated Sugar and Brown Sugar: A combination of these two sugars adds depth to the sweetness. Brown sugar lends a hint of molasses flavor, which contributes to a chewier texture.
Egg: The egg helps bind the ingredients together and adds moisture, resulting in a tender cookie.
Peppermint Extract: This is where the magic happens! Peppermint extract infuses your cookie cups with that refreshing flavor everyone loves during the holidays.
Chocolate Chips: For the filling, semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips provide a delightful burst of chocolate that melts in your mouth.
Heavy Cream: This is used to make a ganache with the chocolate chips, creating a smooth and creamy filling.
Crushed Peppermint Candies: For decoration and extra flavor, crushed peppermint candies give a lovely festive touch and a bit of crunch.

Benefits of Key Ingredients

Flour: Beyond providing structure, whole-grain flours can be used for added nutrition and flavor.
Cocoa Powder: Rich in antioxidants, cocoa has been linked to various health benefits, including improved heart health.
Butter: Quality fat is essential for flavor and can help create a satisfying mouthfeel, making your treat even more enjoyable.
Peppermint: Known for its digestive benefits, peppermint can help soothe stomach troubles—perfect for those heavy holiday meals!

Step-by-Step Method: How to Make Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups

Now that you’re armed with your ingredients, let’s delve into the step-by-step process for creating these delightful cookie cups.

Preparation Before Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking.
Gather your materials and line a muffin tin with paper liners or, if preferred, grease it lightly for easy removal.

Creating the Cookie Dough

In a medium bowl, whisk together 1¾ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 tsp baking soda, ½ tsp baking powder, and ¼ tsp salt. Set this aside.
In a large bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup brown sugar until light and fluffy. This can take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
Add in the egg and 1 tsp of peppermint extract, mixing until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid over-mixing, as this can lead to tough cookie cups.
Fold in ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for added chocolatey goodness.

Shaping the Cookie Cups

Scoop the dough into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about halfway. Lightly press down to flatten.
Bake in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes. The cookies will puff up slightly, and you’ll know they’re done when they’ve set but still look soft.
Remove from the oven and immediately use a round object (like a small shot glass) to press down the center of each cookie, creating a cup shape. Allow cookies to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Preparing the Peppermint Ganache Filling

In a small saucepan, heat ½ cup of heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
Pour the hot cream over 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heat-proof bowl. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes.
Stir the mixture until the chocolate is fully melted and the ganache is smooth. Add a little more peppermint extract if desired, adjusting to your taste.
Once the cookie cups are cool, fill each cup with the chocolate ganache, leveling it off with a spatula.
Chill the cookie cups in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, allowing the ganache to set.

Decorating for Festivity

Once the ganache is set, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top of each filled cookie cup for an added burst of flavor and decoration.
Optional: Drizzle some melted white chocolate for a more festive touch.

Storage and Reheating

To maintain freshness, store your Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups in an airtight container. They can last up to a week at room temperature, or a bit longer if refrigerated. If you’d like to enjoy them warm, simply microwave for a few seconds to slightly melt the ganache.

Tips, Pro Advice, and Mistakes to Avoid

Essential Tips

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for easy mixing and a smoother dough.
Do Not Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to dense cookie cups; a gentle fold is best.
Chill the Dough (Optional): If your kitchen is warm, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help maintain the shape.

Pro Advice

Experiment with Flavors: Consider exchanging the peppermint extract with other seasonal flavors like orange zest or almond extract for a unique twist.
Make It a Family Activity: Get kids involved in decorating the cookie cups. It’s a fun way to create lasting memories during the holiday season.

Mistakes to Avoid

Underbaking: For the perfect chewy center, watch the baking time closely; slightly underbaking is preferable to avoid dry cookies.
Forgetting the Egg: The egg is crucial for texture; missing this step can lead to crumbly cookies.

Variations and Swaps

Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to those with dietary restrictions.
Different Fillings: Swap the peppermint chocolate filling with different variations like caramel, Nutella, or a fruity ganache for a different flair.
Other Toppings: Besides peppermint candies, try adding crushed nuts, sprinkles, or even edible glitter for a festive touch.

Nutrition Insights

While these Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups are undoubtedly a treat, understanding their nutritional aspects can help you enjoy them in moderation.

Calories: Each cookie cup can range from 120 to 150 calories, depending on portion sizes and ingredients used.
Sugars: Pay attention to the sugar content, especially if you’re watching your intake. You can reduce the sugar in the dough while still achieving a delightful flavor.

FAQs About Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups

Q: Can I freeze Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups?
A: Yes! You can freeze the cookie cups once they are cooled completely. Just make sure they are placed in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.

Q: How can I make these cookie cups nut-free?
A: Simply ensure that all ingredients, including chocolate chips and baking products, are labeled nut-free.

Q: Can I use white chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?
A: Absolutely! White chocolate provides a different flavor and can pair beautifully with peppermint.

Q: What can I substitute for heavy cream in the ganache?
A: You can use coconut milk or any nut milk if you’re looking for a dairy-free version, though the texture may slightly differ.

Final Thoughts

Creating Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Cups is not only a delightful baking project but also a perfect way to bring the warmth of the holidays into your kitchen. With their rich chocolate flavor and refreshing peppermint twist, these cookie cups are sure to become a beloved treat for family and friends alike.

So, roll up your sleeves and gather your ingredients because it’s time to bake! Save this recipe, share it with loved ones, and most importantly—enjoy every delicious bite!

Author

Joudia Elise
I'm a recipe developer and wellness enthusiast at We Cook Recipe, where I share practical, family-friendly recipes that support real life not restrictive diets. My approach combines traditional cooking wisdom with modern nutritional understanding, always prioritizing sustainable habits over quick fixes. When I'm not in the kitchen, you'll find me testing wellness trends (like this one!) to separate fact from hype for our community.