Introduction
The holiday season calls for festive, comforting treats, and these peppermint sugar cookies hit all the right notes. With a perfect blend of minty freshness and sweet sugar, these cookies are an easy yet delightful way to celebrate the season. Whether you’re baking for a party, gifting, or simply enjoying them at home, these cookies are sure to become a favorite.
Why These Peppermint Sugar Cookies Are Perfect for the Holidays
If you’re looking for a cookie that combines both flavor and the holiday spirit, this peppermint sugar cookie recipe is exactly what you need. Here’s why:
- Flavor Profile: These cookies perfectly combine the classic sweetness of sugar cookies with the refreshing taste of peppermint. The result is a treat that’s ideal for Christmas parties and gift exchanges.
- Soft and Chewy Texture: Unlike many sugar cookies, this recipe keeps the texture soft and chewy, making them melt in your mouth.
- Festive Look: The vibrant red and white sprinkles or crushed peppermint candy add a visual pop to these cookies, making them as beautiful as they are delicious.
Key Ingredients for Peppermint Sugar Cookies
To make these peppermint sugar cookies, you’ll need a handful of basic ingredients that come together to create a deliciously festive treat:
- Butter – The base of any great cookie dough, butter provides flavor and a soft texture.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and helps with the dough’s consistency.
- Eggs – A binder that holds everything together and gives the cookies structure.
- Flour – The foundation of the cookie dough.
- Peppermint Extract – The star ingredient that gives these cookies their fresh mint flavor.
- Baking Soda & Salt – Essential for leavening and flavor balance.
- Peppermint Candy or Sprinkles – These add texture and make your cookies visually appealing.
How to Make Peppermint Sugar Cookies
Making peppermint sugar cookies is simple and fun. Follow these steps for the perfect cookies:
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Begin by beating the butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a soft texture in the final cookie.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Once the butter and sugar are combined, add the egg and peppermint extract. The peppermint extract is what infuses the dough with that signature holiday flavor, so don’t skimp on it!
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough to keep the cookies soft.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes is a must to prevent spreading during baking. It also helps the flavors develop and makes the dough easier to handle.
Step 5: Roll and Coat
Once the dough is chilled, roll it into balls and coat each one with granulated sugar. For an extra festive touch, dip the balls in crushed peppermint candies or holiday sprinkles.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. These cookies will firm up slightly as they cool, giving you the perfect chewy texture.
Tips for Perfect Peppermint Sugar Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! It helps the cookies retain their shape and prevents them from spreading too much in the oven.
- Crushed Peppermint Candy: Use a food processor to crush the peppermint candy into small pieces. This ensures they stick better to the cookies and provide a crunchy texture.
- Customize the Sprinkles: While the peppermint candies are delicious, you can experiment with different sprinkles for a fun twist. Red and green holiday sprinkles, for instance, add even more festive charm.
Serving and Storing
Once baked, let your peppermint sugar cookies cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing. They are perfect for:
- Holiday Parties: Serve them alongside other festive treats like gingerbread cookies or eggnog bars.
- Gift-Giving: Place them in a cute tin or jar to gift to loved ones.
- After-Dinner Treats: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa or peppermint tea.
To store your cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months. Just be sure to layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Why You’ll Love These Peppermint Sugar Cookies
These peppermint sugar cookies combine the perfect amount of sweetness and mint, making them an instant hit at any gathering. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a treat that’s both delicious and beautiful. Whether you’re baking with family or giving them as gifts, these cookies are sure to spread joy throughout the holiday season.
Conclusion
Peppermint sugar cookies are a classic holiday treat that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. With their soft, chewy texture and minty flavor, they’re a great addition to your holiday baking repertoire. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to bake a batch of these irresistible cookies!