As the holiday season approaches, the scent of peppermint fills the air and brings back fond memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. It was during one of those joyous times that I discovered the magic of Peppermint Sugar Cookies—crisp on the edges with irresistibly chewy centers, they are the perfect blend of festivity and nostalgia. These cheerful little treats are not just a feast for the senses; they also bring a splash of color to your holiday table, making them a delightful choice for festive celebrations!
Baking these cookies is a fun activity that the whole family can join in on, transforming your kitchen into a winter wonderland of flavors. Plus, with easy variations like swapping almond extract for peppermint or adding a splash of vibrant frosting, you can customize them to suit your taste. So roll up your sleeves and let’s create some cookie magic that will delight your loved ones and make this holiday season unforgettable!
Why are Peppermint Sugar Cookies a must-make?
Festive Vibe: These cookies bring the holiday spirit right to your kitchen with their cheerful colors and minty aroma.
Chewy Perfection: With a soft, chewy center and crisp edges, each bite delivers delightful texture and flavor.
Family Fun: Easy to make, they’re a perfect family activity that everyone will enjoy during the holiday season.
Customizable Joy: Whether you swap flavors or add colorful frosting, the options are endless for personalizing your treats.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, these cookies are sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for more!
Peppermint Sugar Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Base
- Unsalted Butter – Provides rich flavor and moisture; can be substituted with margarine for a dairy-free option.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough while contributing to a crisp texture; no direct substitute, but sugar alternatives suitable for baking may be used.
- Large Eggs – Acts as a binder for the dough; a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) works great for a vegan version.
- Peppermint Extract – Adds a festive minty flavor; feel free to swap with almond extract, but be aware it will change the overall taste.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and flavor; a similar amount of vanilla bean paste can provide an even richer depth.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; for gluten-free options, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
- Cornstarch – Contributes to a soft cookie texture; optional but results may vary; arrowroot powder is a good alternative.
- Fine Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors; sea salt can easily replace it.
For the Color and Texture
- Red Gel Food Coloring – Used for coloring one dough portion; avoid liquid food coloring as it may alter the dough’s consistency.
- Granulated Sugar or Sanding Sugar (for coating) – Adds a crunchy texture; consider using colored sugar to ramp up the festive spirit!
Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect Peppermint Sugar Cookies, ensuring a delightful blend of flavor and texture that captures the essence of the holiday season!
How to Make Peppermint Sugar Cookies
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This sets the stage for perfectly baked cookies!
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 1 3/4 cups of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, around 2 minutes. This step is key for a delightful texture!
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Add Eggs and Extracts: Beat in 1 large egg and 1 egg yolk, along with your peppermint and vanilla extracts until everything is combined nicely. You’ll start to smell that festive aroma!
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Mix Dry Ingredients: Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, fine salt, and baking soda to the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want chewy cookies!
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Color the Dough: Divide the dough in half and add red gel food coloring to one portion, mixing until you reach your desired shade. This will create the charming swirls in your cookies!
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Form Cookie Balls: Roll small balls of each colored dough, combining equal amounts from both portions. Gently press them together to shape into rounds, showcasing a fun swirled appearance.
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Chill the Dough: Place the formed cookie balls onto a plate and chill them in the fridge for 30 minutes, or pop them in the freezer for 15 minutes. Chilling helps them hold their shape while baking!
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Bake the Cookies: Once chilled, bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 11-13 minutes, or until the edges are set but not browned. The festive colors should remain vibrant!
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Cool Down: Let the cookies cool on the baking tray for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely, ready for a delightful treat!
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for an extra festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Peppermint Sugar Cookies are perfect for busy holiday preparations! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the dough as instructed, shape them into balls, and chill them in the refrigerator. For even longer storage, you can freeze the shaped cookies for up to 2 months; just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just place the frozen cookies directly on the baking sheet and add a minute or two to the baking time. This way, you’ll have freshly baked, festive cookies at a moment’s notice!
Tips for the Best Peppermint Sugar Cookies
- Cream Well: Ensure butter and sugar are creamed together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the chewy texture in your peppermint sugar cookies.
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip chilling the dough! This helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking, preventing them from spreading too much.
- Spacing is Key: Place cookies 2 inches apart on the baking sheet to allow room for spreading. Overcrowding can result in uneven baking.
- Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should be set around the edges but remain soft in the center. Overbaking can lead to dryness.
- Color Caution: Use gloves when mixing colored dough to avoid staining your skin with the gel food coloring. It helps keep your hands mess-free while creating beautiful peppermint sugar cookies!
What to Serve with Peppermint Sugar Cookies?
Pairing delightful treats with your festive cookies can elevate any holiday gathering. Imagine the joy of sharing these delightful creations with flavors that dance in unison!
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Hot Cocoa: Rich, creamy hot cocoa complements the minty sweetness of cookies, creating a cozy winter experience. A sprinkle of marshmallows on top makes it even more inviting!
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Peppermint Ice Cream: The cool, refreshing taste of peppermint ice cream mirrors the flavors in your cookies, enhancing their festive flavor while adding a creamy contrast.
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Chocolate Fondue: Dip the cookies into warm, melted chocolate for an indulgent treat. The combination of minty cookies and rich chocolate is simply irresistible!
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Eggnog: This classic holiday beverage, with its creamy texture and hints of nutmeg, pairs wonderfully with the minty notes of your cookies, delighting the senses.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can provide a light balance to the sweetness of the cookies. Consider fruits like berries and citrus for added brightness!
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Decaf Coffee: A cup of smooth decaf coffee offsets the sweetness of the cookies, making each bite a delightful treat for afternoon gatherings or cozy evenings.
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Christmas Punch: A festive holiday punch adds a splash of color and flavor that perfectly complements the cheerful vibe of your cookies, making gatherings cheerful.
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Nutty Biscotti: Pairing your soft peppermint cookies with crunchy biscotti creates an exciting texture contrast and a satisfying crunch in every bite.
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Mini Cheesecake Bites: These rich and creamy desserts provide a decadent ending to your holiday feast, perfectly balancing the lightness of the peppermint cookies.
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Sugar Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and chewy texture.
Fridge: For longer storage, keep cookies in the fridge for up to 1 week; just ensure they are in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: Baked cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
Reheating: To enjoy cookies warm again, simply microwave them for about 10 seconds or heat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
Peppermint Sugar Cookies Variations
Invite your creativity to shine through as you adapt these cookies with delightful twists and substitutions!
- Almond Twist: Substitute peppermint extract with almond extract for a warm, nutty flavor that changes up the festive vibe.
- Crushed Peppermint Topping: Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top before baking for an extra layer of crunch and holiday spirit. The textural contrast will make each bite a true treat!
- Chocolate Coating: Dip half of each cooled cookie in melted chocolate for a delectable sweet and minty combination. This decadent addition transforms your cookies into a gourmet delight.
- Frosting Fun: Top with festive royal icing or buttercream frosting to add charm and sweetness. Choose vibrant colors to make your cookies pop on the holiday dessert table!
- Gluten-Free Delight: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version that still captures the magic of peppermint. You won’t miss the gluten at all!
- Sandy Sugar Swap: Opt for sanding sugar instead of regular granulated sugar for coating, which adds an enticing sparkle that looks delightful on your holiday platter.
- Add Spice: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for unexpected warmth and depth of flavor that will excite your taste buds.
- Festive Shapes: Use holiday-themed cookie cutters to create fun shapes like trees or stars, making these cookies perfect for decorating with kids. Watching them come to life will foster precious family memories!
Peppermint Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ingredients for my Peppermint Sugar Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best results, look for unsalted butter that’s fresh and at room temperature, which ensures easy creaming with sugar. When selecting eggs, opt for large, grade A eggs for the best binding and moisture. For peppermint extract, I recommend choosing high-quality pure extract for a vibrant flavor—artificial extracts may not yield the same freshness.
How should I store my Peppermint Sugar Cookies?
Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain that delightful chewiness. For longer enjoyment, you can store them in the fridge for up to 1 week, ensuring they’re in a sealed container to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze Peppermint Sugar Cookies?
Yes, frozen cookies work wonderfully! To freeze, first arrange your baked Peppermint Sugar Cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they’ll last for up to 2 months. To enjoy them warm again, simply microwave for about 10 seconds or heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread excessively, the batter may have been too warm, or you might need to chill the dough longer before baking. I recommend chilling for at least 30 minutes or even longer if your kitchen is warm. Also, double-check that you used the correct measurements, particularly for flour and cornstarch, to ensure just the right dough consistency!
Are there any dietary considerations for my Peppermint Sugar Cookies?
Very! If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, you can easily make these cookies vegan by substituting a flax egg: mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 10 minutes before adding to your dough. For gluten-free options, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, and ensure that all other ingredients, like baking soda, are certified gluten-free.
How can I customize my Peppermint Sugar Cookies?
The more the merrier! You can swap peppermint extract for almond extract for a different flavor altogether. Want a festive crunch? Add crushed peppermint candies on top before baking, or decorate with melted chocolate or colorful frosting for an extra sweet touch! Experimenting is part of the fun!
Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies for a Festive Holiday Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg, along with the peppermint and vanilla extracts until combined.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and fine salt to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Divide the dough in half and add red gel food coloring to one portion, mixing until you reach your desired shade.
- Roll small balls from each colored dough, combining equal amounts.
- Chill the formed cookie balls in the fridge for 30 minutes.
- Bake the cookies for 11-13 minutes, until the edges are set.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking tray for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.