Peppermint Sugar Cookies: 10 Festive Minty Delights

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Peppermint Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that brings the spirit of the holidays right into your kitchen. These cookies feature a buttery sugar cookie base infused with rich vanilla and refreshing peppermint extracts, and they are studded with crunchy chopped candy canes. The result? Cookies that are perfectly soft in the center and lightly crisp around the edges, making them ideal for holiday celebrations or any time you crave a minty twist on a classic cookie.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Sugar Cookies

These cookies aren’t just delicious; they are the epitome of holiday cheer. Here are a few reasons to love them:

They are easy peppermint cookies that even novice bakers can master.
Infused with mint, these are the best peppermint sugar cookies for a refreshing twist.
Perfect for holiday gatherings, they can impress your guests as festive mint sugar cookies.
You can easily make them gluten-free or vegan, accommodating various dietary preferences.
These cookies are soft and chewy, making each bite a delightful experience.
They are versatile enough for any occasion, not just during the holidays.

With a prep time of only 10 minutes and a cook time of 11 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these homemade peppermint sugar cookies in no time!

Ingredients for Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Gather these items:

1/2 cup salted butter (at room temperature)
3/4 cup granulated sugar (or granulated cane sugar)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
1 large egg
1 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup chopped candy canes

How to Make Peppermint Sugar Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Line two medium sheet pans with parchment paper and set aside space in your fridge for chilling the cookie dough later on.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the room temperature salted butter, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and the large egg. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: In a separate medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking soda to ensure even distribution and a light texture.
Step 4: Gradually add the sifted flour mixture into the butter mixture. Use a spatula to stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the cookies tender.
Step 5: Fold in the chopped candy canes evenly using the spatula, mixing until they are well incorporated throughout the cookie dough.
Step 6: Scoop and roll the dough into uniform-sized balls and place them on the prepared sheet pans, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
Step 7: Refrigerate the cookie dough balls on the sheet pans for 30 minutes to help the cookies maintain their shape when baked.
Step 8: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled cookies directly from the fridge for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the centers are still soft but edges are set.
Step 9: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheets before transferring to a wire rack or serving plate.

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Pro Tips for the Best Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Keep these in mind:

These cookies are perfectly soft in the center and lightly crisp around the edges.
To enhance the peppermint flavor, consider adding a bit more peppermint extract.
For a festive touch, you can drizzle melted chocolate on top after they cool.
Make sure to chill the dough, as this helps the cookies keep their shape when baking.
Consider using gluten-free flour for a gluten-free peppermint sugar cookie option.

Best Ways to Serve Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Here are some ideas to enjoy these cookies:

Serve them alongside a hot cup of cocoa or coffee for a cozy treat.
They make great additions to holiday cookie trays or dessert platters.
Pair them with vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

How to Store and Reheat Peppermint Sugar Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back their soft texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Peppermint Sugar Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Peppermint Sugar Cookies?

The secret lies in not overmixing the dough and chilling it before baking. This ensures that the cookies remain soft and chewy, creating the perfect peppermint cookie recipe.

Can I make Peppermint Sugar Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking. This is perfect for holiday preparations.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Peppermint Sugar Cookies?

To avoid issues, always measure your flour accurately and chill the dough thoroughly. Overbaking will also lead to dry cookies, so keep an eye on the timer.

Variations of Peppermint Sugar Cookies You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Make vegan peppermint sugar cookies by substituting butter with coconut oil and egg with flaxseed meal.
Try peppermint-infused sugar cookies by steeping fresh mint leaves in the butter before mixing.
For a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Decorate with Christmas peppermint cookie ideas like colored icing or sprinkles for a festive touch.

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For more delicious recipes, check out our Cheesy Baked Fajita Chicken or Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe. You might also enjoy Holiday Roasted Vegetables Recipe for a festive side dish. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, try our Creamy Italian Meatball Soup Recipe or Chocolate Pine Cones Recipe.

For more information on baking techniques, visit King Arthur Baking.