Imagine a cozy kitchen, the scent of fresh cookies wafting through the air, and the laughter of loved ones filling the room. That’s what Christmas is all about for me. As soon as the holiday season kicks off, I start craving the comforting taste of peppermint paired with sweet, buttery cookies. This isn’t just any cookie recipe; it’s a family favorite that has graced our holiday gatherings for years. The joy of baking these Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies brings back so many fond memories—like decorating the tree while nibbling on warm cookies or competing for the prettiest designs with my sister. Each bite is a delicious reminder of the season of giving, joy, and, of course, a little indulgence! Let’s dive into making these delightful treats that will surely spread holiday cheer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You might be wondering, why should I invest my time in baking when I can just pick up some cookies from the store? Well, my friend, let me illuminate you. These Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies are not just cookies; they’re little bites of nostalgia that will fill your heart with warmth and your home with sweet scents. They are simple to make, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. Plus, nothing beats the satisfaction of creating something from scratch that tastes truly special!
This recipe is like a hug in cookie form! The combination of silky, buttery goodness and a refreshing hint of peppermint will make your taste buds dance. Plus, they are incredibly versatile! Decorate them with colorful icing, sprinkle some crushed candy canes on top, or enjoy them plain—every bite is a little piece of festive joy. So, gather your loved ones, put on some holiday music, and let’s get baking!
What It Tastes Like
Now, let’s talk about the experience of biting into one of these cookies. It’s like unwrapping the best present on Christmas morning; the soft, chewy texture gives way to a delicate sweetness that melts in your mouth. The sugar cookie base is buttery and rich, while the peppermint essence brings a refreshing zing that dances on your palate, reminding you of snowy nights sipping hot cocoa by the fire. When you’re indulging in these cookies, it’s easy to forget the world outside and lose yourself in the moment, like being wrapped in a warm blanket of festive joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your cookie—providing structure while keeping them fluffy!
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: This helps the cookies rise to their full potential, creating that delightful lightness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances all those sweet flavors going on!
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): The star of the show, lending richness and a melt-in-your-mouth quality!
- 1 ½ cups sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that beautiful golden color.
- 1 large egg: This binds everything together, turning a mix of ingredients into cookie magic.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: It brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: The cherry on top, adding that refreshing holiday zest!
- Optional Additions:
- 1 cup crushed candy canes for a crunchy and colorful topping.
- 1 cup of chocolate chips if you’re feeling a little extra.
- Special Garnishes:
- Decorative icing for icing over those perfectionist cookie designs.
- Extra crushed candy canes to sprinkle on top before baking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly baked cookie by the time you’re finished mixing!
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This little step makes sure the baking soda gets evenly distributed, giving you fluffiness throughout.
- Beat the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is where your arm workout begins (just kidding, use your mixer!). Don’t rush this step—it’s where the magic happens!
- Add egg and extracts: Mix in your egg, vanilla, and peppermint extract until everything is combined. You should start smelling that wonderful peppermint aroma!
- Combine mixtures: Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies, so take it easy!
- Chill the dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This makes your dough easier to roll and helps the flavors blend beautifully.
- Form the cookies: After chilling, scoop out tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart since they spread while baking.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn slightly golden. They’ll look soft in the center; that’s perfect! Trust me, they’ll firm up as they cool.
- Cool and decorate: Let them cool on the baking sheet for five minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. Once cooled, feel free to drizzle icing or sprinkle with crushed candy canes for that festive touch!
Recipe Variations
No need to be shy here; your creativity can take center stage! Want some chocolatey goodness? Swap out half the flour for cocoa powder and add chocolate chips for a peppermint mocha twist. Feeling fruity? Add a dash of orange zest for a delightful citrus note that contrasts beautifully with the peppermint. These cookies are a canvas, and you have all the colors at your disposal!
Serving & Storage Tips
These cookies are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week—if they last that long! If you want to keep them even longer (who are we kidding, though?), pop them in the freezer in a sealed bag for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature for a few hours when you’re feeling the craving. You can even use these cookies to create an entertaining sweet platter along with your favorite holiday treats!
Helpful Tips
Here are a few nuggets of wisdom learned from my baking adventures. First off, make sure your butter is softened—that means it should be just pliable enough to leave a fingerprint when you press into it. Too hard, and you’ll struggle to mix; too soft, and they’ll spread too much. Also, don’t skip the chilling step! It’s not just a whimsical idea; it gives you that nice chewy texture and helps the cookies hold their shape.
Keeping an eye on the baking process is essential too. Every oven is different, so check on them a minute or two earlier than suggested. You want just the slightest golden edge and a soft, pillowy center.
Special Equipment
- Mixing bowls: Having a good set of mixing bowls allows for easy transitioning between ingredients and makes mixing simple.
- Cookie scoop: This is a game changer! It helps you get uniform-sized cookies every time, which is especially nice for presentation (because, let’s be real, we eat with our eyes first!).
- Parchment paper or silicone mats: These help prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup after the cookie party. No one wants a battle with melted cookie on the baking sheet!
- Cooling rack: Not just for cooling but for allowing airflow around your cookies, keeping them from getting soggy on the bottom!
FAQ About Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
You can, but the flavor and texture will differ. Butter gives that rich taste and perfect chocolate chip structure you love. If you must use margarine, choose a stick form for the best results.
What if I don’t have peppermint extract?
No worries! You can use vanilla extract instead, but it will create a different flavor profile. Some folks even use crushed peppermint candies—just blend them into the dough!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Make the dough, wrap it well, and refrigerate it for a few days or freeze it for longer storage. Thaw before rolling and baking. What a time-saver!
Can I decorate them with royal icing?
Yes! Royal icing is perfect for adding festive designs. Just make sure to allow the cookies to cool completely before decorating to prevent any melting!
Conclusion
I hope this Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies recipe finds a special spot in your holiday tradition. There’s something magical about the act of baking, especially when it’s shared with loved ones. I love making these cookies for gatherings or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon at home with a cup of tea (or hot cocoa, let’s be real!). The laughter, joy, and trust me, the inhalation of tantalizing scents wafting through your kitchen will create lasting memories. And as you bite into a crispy edge and a chewy center, I hope you feel that warm hug of holiday spirit comforting you. Please share your versions of these cookies or your special moments in the comments—I’d love to hear your stories!
Print
Irresistible Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Bake delightful Christmas peppermint sugar cookies perfect for holiday treats Discover this easy festive recipe to enjoy with friends and family
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
A family favorite Christmas cookie recipe featuring buttery sugar cookies with a hint of peppermint, perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 cookies
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1.5g
