Peppermint Sugar Cookies Recipe

Peppermint Sugar Cookies Recipe for Cool Winter Treats

Peppermint sugar cookies emerge as a festive delight that sparks pure winter magic.

Sweet memories dance through every delightful bite of these classic treats.

Soft, crumbly textures mingle with cool mint sensations that enchant dessert lovers everywhere.

Holiday baking reaches new heights with this delightful recipe perfect for sharing and celebrating.

Comfort and joy radiate from each perfectly crafted cookie, promising moments of pure seasonal happiness.

Stunning yet simple, these cookies invite warmth and cheer into your kitchen with minimal effort.

Everyone will fall in love with the delightful balance of sugary sweetness and refreshing peppermint flavor that makes these cookies truly special.

Why Peppermint Sugar Cookies Feel Timeless

Why Peppermint Sugar Cookies Feel Timeless
  • Festive Flavor Burst: These cookies pack a cheerful peppermint punch that transforms ordinary sugar cookies into a delightful holiday treat perfect for your Christmas gatherings.
  • Super Simple Baking: Even kitchen novices can nail this recipe with basic ingredients and straightforward mixing steps that create professional-looking cookies without complicated techniques.
  • Family Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet-minty combination and fun candy cane sprinkles that make these cookies a guaranteed hit at any seasonal celebration.
  • No-Stress Preparation: Make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate, giving you flexible baking options when your schedule gets hectic during the holiday season.

Peppermint Sugar Cookies Ingredient List

Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour (2 1/2 cups): The sturdy foundation for your delicate, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that provides perfect structure.
  • Baking Powder (1 tsp): The magical rising agent that helps your cookies get that perfect soft, puffy texture.
  • Salt (1/2 tsp): A tiny pinch that balances and enhances all the sweet flavors in your cookies.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Unsalted Butter (1 cup): The rich, creamy base that makes your cookies incredibly tender and gives them a luxurious texture.
  • Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Sweetness that creates a delightful crisp edge and golden color on your cookies.
  • Large Eggs (2): Binding agents that hold everything together and add moisture to your cookie dough.
  • Vanilla Extract (2 tsp): A classic flavor enhancer that deepens the overall taste of your cookies.
  • Peppermint Extract (1/2 tsp): The festive touch that brings a cool, refreshing holiday spirit to each bite.
Finishing Ingredients:
  • Crushed Candy Canes (1/2 cup): Crunchy peppermint pieces that add a festive crunch and extra holiday cheer.
  • Powdered Sugar (1/4 cup): A light dusting that creates a beautiful snowy appearance and adds a touch of extra sweetness.

Prep Tools For Peppermint Sugar Cookies

  • Electric Mixer (Stand or Hand): Your go-to tool for creaming butter and sugar to fluffy perfection and mixing ingredients smoothly.
  • Large Mixing Bowl: Where the magic happens for combining wet and dry ingredients without making a mess.
  • Medium Bowl: Perfect for whisking your dry ingredients together before adding them to the cookie dough.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for getting your ingredient quantities spot-on every single time.
  • Parchment Paper (Two Sheets): Helps your cookies bake evenly and prevents sticking to the baking sheets.
  • Baking Sheets (Two): Sturdy surfaces for creating perfectly shaped cookies with golden edges.
  • Wire Cooling Rack: Helps your cookies cool down and maintain their crisp texture after baking.
  • Rolling Pin (Optional): Useful if you prefer rolling out dough instead of forming balls by hand.
  • Spatula: Great for folding in crushed candy canes and scraping down mixing bowl sides.
  • Whisk: Ensures your dry ingredients are thoroughly combined and lump-free.

How to Prepare Peppermint Sugar Cookies

How to Prepare Peppermint Sugar Cookies
1

Prepare Dry Ingredients

Grab a medium bowl and whisk together 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, and 1/2 tsp salt until everything looks well combined.

2

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixer bowl, beat 1 cup softened unsalted butter with 1 cup granulated sugar for 3 minutes. The mixture should look fluffy and light.

3

Add Eggs

Drop in 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each egg joins the party.

4

Mix in Flavor

Splash in 2 tsp vanilla extract and 1/2 tsp peppermint extract, stirring until they’re totally mixed through.

5

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add your dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed. Stop stirring as soon as everything looks blended.

6

Fold in Candy Canes

Gently stir 1/2 cup crushed candy canes into the cookie dough. Be gentle so you don’t break up the candy too much.

7

Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and tuck it into the refrigerator for 1 hour. This helps the cookies keep their shape when baking.

8

Prep for Baking

Heat the oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

9

Shape Cookies

Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in 1/4 cup powdered sugar so they get a nice dusty coating.

10

Bake Cookies

Place cookie balls 2 inches apart on the baking sheets. Slide them into the 350°F oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges turn golden.

11

Cool and Finish

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Sprinkle extra crushed candy canes on top if you want extra peppermint punch.

Cooking Notes for Peppermint Sugar Cookies

  • Refrigerate the dough for an hour to prevent spreading and help cookies hold their shape perfectly.
  • Roll each cookie ball generously in powdered sugar for a beautiful crackled exterior and sweet finish.
  • Crush candy canes finely and fold gently into dough for bursts of peppermint flavor throughout your cookies.
  • Watch cookies closely during the last two minutes to catch that perfect light golden edge without overcooking.
  • Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack to maintain their delicate texture.

Alternate Versions Of Peppermint Sugar Cookies

  • Gluten-Free Holiday Cookies: Replace wheat flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring your cookies remain soft and festive for friends with wheat sensitivities.
  • Vegan Peppermint Celebration Cookies: Swap butter with coconut oil and eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg), keeping the peppermint flavor vibrant.
  • Low-Sugar Candy Cane Treats: Cut granulated sugar by half and substitute with monk fruit sweetener, maintaining the classic cookie texture while reducing overall sweetness.
  • Chocolate Peppermint Edition: Fold in mini dark chocolate chips alongside crushed candy canes for an extra rich winter cookie experience.

Sweet Serving Ideas For Peppermint Sugar Cookies

  • Serve Warm and Fresh: Pull these cookies straight from the oven when friends arrive for maximum festive cheer and that perfect soft texture.
  • Perfect Holiday Beverage Pairing: Brew a mug of hot chocolate or peppermint tea to complement the cookie’s cool mint flavor and create a cozy winter moment.
  • Gifting Suggestion: Pack these cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with red ribbons for charming homemade holiday gifts that everyone will adore.
  • Presentation Tip: Arrange cookies on a white ceramic plate and dust with extra crushed candy canes for a sparkling, festive display that looks as delightful as they taste.

Best Storage Method For Peppermint Sugar Cookies

  • Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, keeping your treats fresh and soft.
  • Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent your cookies from sticking together and breaking.
  • Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months, so you can bake fresh cookies whenever your sweet tooth calls.
  • If freezing baked cookies, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container to maintain their delicate texture and peppermint crunch.

Peppermint Sugar Cookies Questions And Answers

FAQ

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking. This helps develop richer flavors and makes prep easier.

FAQ

Are these cookies good for gifting?

Totally! These peppermint cookies pack beautifully in holiday tins and make wonderful homemade presents. They stay fresh for about a week when stored in an airtight container.

FAQ

How do I prevent the candy canes from getting too sticky?

Crush the candy canes right before adding them to the dough, and make sure your hands are dry. This helps prevent clumping and keeps the texture perfect.

FAQ

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Definitely! Shape the dough into balls, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and roll in powdered sugar before baking.

FAQ

What if I don’t have peppermint extract?

No worries! You can use more crushed candy canes for flavor or substitute with a bit of peppermint schnapps for an extra festive touch.

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Peppermint Sugar Cookies Recipe

Peppermint Sugar Cookies Recipe


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4.6 from 17 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 27 minutes
  • Yield: 24 1x

Description

Peppermint sugar cookies bring festive cheer right to your kitchen counter. Crisp edges and cool mint make these treats perfect for sharing with friends during holiday gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

Supporting Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon peppermint extract

Finishing Ingredients:

  • ½ cup crushed candy canes
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Sift 2 ½ cups flour, 1 tsp baking powder, and ½ tsp salt together in a medium bowl until evenly mixed.
  2. Cream 1 cup softened butter with 1 cup granulated sugar in a mixer for 3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and airy.
  3. Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  4. Blend 2 tsp vanilla extract and ½ tsp peppermint extract into the butter mixture until smooth.
  5. Slowly add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
  6. Gently fold ½ cup crushed candy canes into your cookie dough.
  7. Wrap the dough and refrigerate for 1 hour to help it firm up.
  8. Heat your oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  9. Roll chilled dough into 1-inch balls and roll each one in ¼ cup powdered sugar.
  10. Position cookie balls 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
  11. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until cookie edges turn light golden.
  12. Let cookies rest on baking sheet for 5 minutes after removing from oven.
  13. Transfer cookies to a wire rack and cool completely.
  14. Optional: Sprinkle additional crushed candy canes on top for extra festive look.

Notes

  • Chilling the dough is crucial for preventing cookie spread and maintaining a perfect round shape.
  • Crush candy canes finely for a smoother texture and more even peppermint flavor throughout the cookies.
  • Use room temperature butter and eggs to ensure a smooth, well-blended cookie dough that combines easily.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to keep the same soft, tender texture.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Cookies
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 24
  • Calories: 140 kcal
  • Sugar: 9 g
  • Sodium: 80 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 19 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 1.5 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Logan Lemaster

Logan Lemaster

Founder & Culinary Innovator

Expertise

Recipe Development and Innovation, Menu Design and Optimization, Fine Dining Techniques, Ingredient Pairing and Flavor Science

Education

Metropolitan Culinary Arts Institute

  • Degree: Associate of Occupational Studies in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Advanced culinary techniques, kitchen management, and diverse cuisine mastery.

Logan’s culinary journey kicked off in his vibrant Chicago family kitchen, where fresh, seasonal ingredients and bold flavors were always front and center.

After graduating from the Metropolitan Culinary Arts Institute in Arlington, Virginia, and honing his skills in renowned restaurants, Logan mastered the art of blending classic techniques with exciting, modern twists.

His kitchen is a dynamic lab for flavor exploration. Through Yum Utopia, Logan aims to empower you to cook with both confidence and creativity, turning simple ingredients into spectacular meals.

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