The Peppermint Recipes You Didn’t Know You Needed

Peppermint adds a fresh, cool twist to both sweet and savory dishes, making it a fun ingredient to experiment with in the kitchen. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just want something refreshing, peppermint can bring something unexpected to your usual recipes.

From chocolate treats to frosty drinks, there’s something about peppermint that pairs so well with rich flavors and creamy textures. It’s a simple way to give your go-to favorites a refreshing spin.

This post features a handful of recipes where peppermint plays a lead role. Whether you’re a fan of bold minty desserts or subtle hints in snacks, there’s plenty here to enjoy and maybe even make a new favorite.

Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies

These cookies are crisp on the edges, soft in the middle, and have crushed candy canes baked right in for that cool, minty crunch. Perfect for holiday trays or winter snacks, they bring the classic flavor combo of mint and vanilla together in every bite. They’re also a great way to use up leftover candy canes—if you ever have any!
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Candy Cane Cookies

Peppermint Fudge

Rich and creamy, this fudge is loaded with chocolate and just the right amount of peppermint. It’s super easy to make—no fancy steps required—and great for gifting or snacking straight from the fridge. The crushed peppermint on top adds a bit of texture and festive flair.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Fudge

Peppermint Mocha Cookies

Think of your favorite seasonal drink turned into a chewy cookie with chocolate chips and a hint of coffee. These are the kind of cookies that go great with a warm drink or even crumbled over ice cream. The peppermint twist keeps them from feeling overly sweet.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Mocha Cookies

Peppermint Mocha Coffee Creamer

Skip the store-bought stuff—this homemade version is simple, creamy, and brings a cozy mint-chocolate flavor to your morning cup. You only need a few ingredients, and it lasts for days in the fridge. It’s a small effort with a big payoff every morning.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Mocha Coffee Creamer

Peppermint Ice Cream

Cool, minty, and creamy with bits of crushed peppermint candies swirled throughout—this is a freezer staple for peppermint fans. It’s perfect on its own, but also works great sandwiched between cookies or alongside a slice of cake. Plus, you don’t even need an ice cream maker if you use the no-churn method.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Ice Cream

Peppermint Hot Chocolate

This drink is rich, smooth, and has just the right minty note to keep things refreshing. It’s great for cozy nights or snow days and can be made in batches for a crowd. Add whipped cream and crushed candy canes for an extra treat.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Peppermint Oreo Truffles

Only a few ingredients needed for these no-bake treats—Oreos, cream cheese, and a touch of peppermint. They’re dipped in chocolate and look impressive, even though they’re super simple to put together. Great for gifting or adding to a holiday dessert platter.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Oreo Truffles

Homemade York Peppermint Patties

These have that familiar dark chocolate shell and cool peppermint center, and yes—they taste just like the real thing. You can shape them however you like, and the chill factor makes them extra refreshing. Keep them in the fridge or freezer for a grab-and-go sweet.
Get the Recipe: Homemade York Peppermint Patties

Chocolate Mousse Tart

Silky, rich chocolate mousse fills a crisp crust and pairs surprisingly well with a hint of mint. It’s elegant enough for gatherings but simple enough to make without stress. You can top it with whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed mints for a little sparkle.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Mousse Tart

White Chocolate Peppermint Chex Mix

Sweet, crunchy, and minty with a good mix of textures, this snack mix is addictive in the best way. White chocolate coats the cereal and pretzels, and bits of peppermint give it that extra festive kick. Bag it up for holiday gifts or keep a bowl out for snacking.
Get the Recipe: White Chocolate Peppermint Chex Mix

Peppermint Candied Bacon Cupcakes

This is one of those flavor combos that just works—salty-sweet candied bacon meets cool peppermint frosting on top of a rich chocolate cupcake. It’s unexpected but surprisingly balanced. A fun option for anyone who likes bold flavors.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Candied Bacon Cupcakes

Peppermint Mocha

A winter classic that blends coffee, cocoa, and a hint of mint—it’s the kind of drink you’ll look forward to when the weather cools down. You can make it at home with pantry staples, and it tastes just as good as any coffee shop version. Add some foam or whipped cream for extra coziness.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Mocha

Peppermint Bark

Layers of dark and white chocolate topped with crushed peppermint pieces—simple, but always a crowd-pleaser. It breaks apart easily, so it’s perfect for sharing or packaging up as a gift. Bonus: it’s one of the easiest treats to make ahead.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Bark