I remember the first time I made Peppermint Sugar Cookies. It was a chilly winter afternoon, and snowflakes danced outside my window. The house felt cold, but my heart warmed as I gathered the ingredients. Christmas lights twinkled softly, creating a cozy atmosphere. Each ingredient reminded me of my childhood — the rich butter, the sweet sugar, and that delightful scent of peppermint. My family and I would bake these cookies together every year, filling our kitchen with joy and laughter. This recipe means so much to me, not just for the cookies, but for the memories shared and the love exchanged around the kitchen table.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Peppermint Sugar Cookies brings a feeling of happiness that brightens any occasion. These cookies are sweet, buttery, and filled with that refreshing burst of peppermint. They are perfect for holiday gatherings, cozy evenings, or even just to share with friends. The best part is that they are easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients, you can create a treat that feels special yet comforting.

Moreover, the flavors blend so well together. The sugary sweetness combines perfectly with the minty freshness. As a result, every bite gives a burst of joy. These cookies also have a beautiful color, making them visually appealing. Whenever guests see them, they can’t help but smile. Additionally, they are versatile. You can serve them for Christmas, New Year’s, or any time you want a bit of festive cheer.

People will love the Peppermint Sugar Cookies for many reasons. They not only taste great but also fill your home with delightful aromas. The experience of baking these cookies creates bonds among family and friends. Furthermore, they are easy to store and share. You can make a big batch and gift them to your neighbors or friends. The joy that comes from giving and receiving homemade treats is special.

How to Make Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Ingredients:

1 large Egg
2 1/2 cups All-purpose flour
1 Red gel food coloring
1 cup Granulated sugar
1/2 tsp Peppermint extract
1/2 tsp Salt
1 tsp Vanilla extract
1 cup unsalted Butter

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and food coloring.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until combined.
Roll the dough into balls and place them on a lined baking sheet.
Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Serving Peppermint Sugar Cookies is a delightful experience. First, arrange the cookies on a festive platter. You can stack them or lay them out flat. To add a special touch, sprinkle some crushed peppermint candies or candy canes on top for extra flavor and decoration. Serve them with a warm cup of cocoa or a frothy peppermint mocha. The warm drinks complement the cool sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

You can serve these cookies at various occasions. They fit well at holiday parties, family gatherings, or simply as an afternoon treat. For the best experience, present them at room temperature. The texture stays soft and chewy. If you want to make them even more inviting, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This will elevate the flavor and make for a fun dessert.

Remember, when guests arrive, offer them a cookie with a smile. Invite them into your cozy space and share the joy of food together. The combination of peppermint-flavored cookies and heartfelt conversation creates lasting memories.

How to Store Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Storing your Peppermint Sugar Cookies is simple. First, let them cool completely before any storage. You can keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will maintain freshness in the freezer for up to three months.

When you decide to enjoy frozen cookies, simply take them out and let them thaw at room temperature. They will taste just as good as the day you baked them. Ensure that the container remains sealed tightly to keep moisture out. This way, your cookies will stay soft and delicious.

Tips to Make Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Butter Temperature: Make sure the unsalted butter is at room temperature before mixing. This helps it cream well with the sugar, which creates the perfect texture for your cookies.
Mixing Ingredients: When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, do not overmix. This keeps your cookies light and fluffy. Mix just until you see no more flour.
Use Gel Food Coloring: If you want to enhance the festive look, use gel food coloring instead of liquid. It gives a bright color without adding extra moisture to the dough.
Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before rolling. This also helps in shaping the cookies better, making them less likely to spread during baking.
Baking Sheet Lining: Use parchment paper to line your baking sheet. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking. It can also help in easy cleanup.
Peppermint Extract: Adjust the amount of peppermint extract to your taste. If you enjoy a stronger peppermint flavor, feel free to add a little more, but keep it balanced.
Uniform Size: To ensure even baking, try to roll all cookie dough balls to a similar size. This way, each cookie will bake at the same rate and come out perfectly golden.
Use an Oven Thermometer: Oven temperatures can vary. Using a thermometer helps ensure your oven reaches the correct temperature, resulting in better cookie texture.

Variation

Chocolate Peppermint Sugar Cookies: Add 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients. This twist provides a rich, chocolatey flavor that pairs well with peppermint.
Cranberry Peppermint Sugar Cookies: Mix in 1 cup of dried cranberries for a tart flavor. The tartness balances nicely with the sweetness and adds a festive touch.
Nutty Peppermint Sugar Cookies: Fold in 1/2 cup of finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, into the dough. This gives the cookies a crunchy texture that adds delightful contrast to the soft cookie.
Gluten-Free Peppermint Sugar Cookies: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This option ensures that everyone can enjoy the cookies no matter their dietary preferences.
Caramel Peppermint Sugar Cookies: Add caramel pieces to the cookie dough before baking. The gooey caramel melts into the cookie and pairs wonderfully with the peppermint flavor.
Mint Chocolate Chip Version: Incorporate mini chocolate chips into the dough along with the peppermint extract. This variation adds an indulgent, chocolatey twist.

FAQs Of Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Can I use margarine instead of butter for this recipe?
You can use margarine as a substitute for butter, but be aware that the taste and texture might change slightly. Margarine can make cookies a bit softer, which may alter the crunchiness you desire. If you’re aiming for perfect classic cookies, unsalted butter is ideal.

How can I tell when the cookies are done baking?
Check the edges of the cookies for a light golden color. They will look slightly underbaked in the center when you take them out, but they will continue to cook on the baking sheet for a few minutes. The perfect cookie has a soft center with crisp edges.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! You can freeze the cookie dough balls before baking. Place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, just pop them straight from the freezer into the oven, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
To prevent spreading, ensure your butter is at the right temperature and chill the dough before baking. You can also try adding a little extra flour if your dough seems too soft. Using a baking sheet lined with parchment paper also protects against spreading.

Can I make these cookies without peppermint extract?
Absolutely! If you want to skip the peppermint extract, you can either use vanilla extract for a simple sugar cookie or replace it with almond extract for a different flavor. The cookies will still be delightful and enjoyable!

What if my dough is too sticky?
If your cookie dough seems too sticky, add a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency. Remember, the dough should be workable without sticking excessively to your hands when rolled into balls.

Enjoy making, sharing, and savoring your Peppermint Sugar Cookies! They will surely spread joy and warmth wherever you go.

Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Author: imrane
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Delightful, sweet, and buttery cookies infused with a refreshing burst of peppermint, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 large Egg
2 1/2 cups All-purpose flour
1 Red gel food coloring
1 cup Granulated sugar
1/2 tsp Peppermint extract
1/2 tsp Salt
1 tsp Vanilla extract
1 cup unsalted Butter

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and food coloring.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until combined.
Roll the dough into balls and place them on a lined baking sheet.
Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For a festive touch, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top of the cookies before serving. Pair with warm drinks for a delightful experience.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 150
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: peppermint, sugar cookies, holiday baking, easy recipe, festive treats