Mix the dry ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Beat the wet ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk sugar and oil until combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing until smooth and glossy. Stir in vanilla and peppermint extract. The batter will look shiny and thick.
Combine wet and dry:
Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. The dough will be sticky and dense, almost brownie-like.
Chill the dough:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight). This step is crucial for making the dough firm enough to roll and ensuring the cookies develop deep crinkles.
Preheat oven:
When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Shape and roll:
Scoop 1 tablespoon of dough and roll into a ball (about 1 inch). First roll each ball in granulated sugar, then generously in powdered sugar. This double-coating helps the crinkle pattern form beautifully.
Bake:
Place dough balls 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the tops are crackled and the centers look slightly underbaked.
Tip: Don’t overbake—the cookies will continue to set as they cool, keeping the insides fudgy.
Cool:
Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. They should be soft in the middle with a crisp, sugary coating.
Serve and enjoy:
Enjoy warm with a glass of milk or let them cool completely before storing.