Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Introduction to Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Ah, peppermint sugar cookies! Just the thought of them fills my heart with holiday warmth. These delightful treats are not only irresistibly festive but also simple enough to whip up even on the busiest days. As a busy mom myself, I know how precious time is, especially during the holiday season. This recipe serves as a quick solution for creating something special that your family and friends will adore. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or just to share joy with your loved ones, these cookies are sure to brighten anyone’s day.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Sugar Cookies

You’ll fall in love with these peppermint sugar cookies from the very first bite! They’re not only easy to prepare, but they also make your home smell divine while baking. In just a few short steps, you can create cookies that are soft, creamy, and bursting with festive flavor. Plus, they’re the perfect treat for everyone—who can resist that delightful combination of peppermint and sweetness? It’s sure to bring a smile to your loved ones’ faces.

Ingredients for Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward whipping up these magical peppermint sugar cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the cookies, giving them structure and texture.
• Cornstarch: A secret ingredient for that tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
• Baking powder & baking soda: These leavening agents help your cookies rise for a fluffy finish.
• Salt: A pinch enhances all the sweet flavors and balances the taste.
• Unsalted butter: Softened to create a rich, creamy base that adds flavor.
• Brick-style cream cheese: This adds richness and a slight tang, making each bite incredibly creamy.
• Granulated sugar: The sweetener that brings out the festive flavor we all love in cookies.
• Egg: Acts as a binder to hold everything together, keeping your cookies soft and chewy.
• Vanilla extract: A must for that warm, comforting flavor that enhances the sweetness.
• Peppermint extract: This brings that unmistakable holiday cheer, so don’t skip it!
• Powdered sugar: Used in the frosting to create a sweet and smooth finish.
• Milk: Helps adjust the frosting to your desired consistency, ensuring it spreads beautifully.
• Red food coloring: Optional, but it adds a festive touch to your frosting, if you desire.
• Candy canes: Crushed for decoration, they provide that delightful crunch and extra peppermint flavor.

For the exact measurements, make sure to check the recipe details at the bottom of the article, where you’ll find everything available for printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Now that we have our ingredients, it’s time to bring these peppermint sugar cookies to life! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have delightful cookies that not only taste amazing but look festive too!

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

First, grab a large bowl and whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This will ensure all the leavening agents are evenly mixed in. It’s a simple step, but it sets the foundation for our cookies!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In another large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar together. You want it to be creamy and smooth—about 2 minutes will do the trick! This is where the magic begins, filling your kitchen with a rich aroma.

Step 3: Mix in the Egg and Extracts

Add in the large egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Mix on medium speed until everything is well combined. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl to catch any butter or sugar hiding there. It’s like giving your dough a little hug!

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Now it’s time to unite the dry and wet ingredients! Gradually add the flour mixture into your creamy batter. Start mixing on low speed to avoid a flour cloud, and then bump it up to medium speed until just combined. The dough might be a bit sticky; that’s perfectly okay!

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Divide your dough in half, and form each half into a ball. Flatten them into discs about 1/2 inch thick and wrap them in plastic wrap. Slide these beauties into the fridge for at least 4 hours, or even up to 48 hours if you like to plan ahead. This step is essential for letting the flavors meld!

Step 6: Roll and Cut Cookies

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (or 325°F for convection). Grab a clean surface and dust it with flour. Unwrap one disc of dough and roll it out to about 1/4 – 1/3 inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutter to cut out shapes, placing them 1.5 inches apart on lined cookie sheets.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake one cookie sheet at a time for 7-10 minutes. Watch closely—the cookies should look set but not too golden. Once they’re out, let them cool completely on the sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. The aroma? Heaven!

Step 8: Make the Frosting

While the cookies cool, it’s frosting time! In a clean bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, salt, and peppermint extract. Mix until smooth; you can always adjust the sweetness with more sugar or the consistency with a splash of milk.

Step 9: Frost and Decorate

Once your cookies are cool and the frosting is fluffy, it’s time to decorate! Spread a generous layer on each cookie and sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top. This gives your peppermint sugar cookies that final holiday touch, making them look as amazing as they taste!

Tips for Success

• Chilling the dough is crucial for the best texture—resist the urge to skip this step!
• For a consistent thickness, use a rolling pin with guides or a simple ruler.
• Don’t overbake! Pull the cookies when they look slightly soft—they’ll firm up as they cool.
• Experiment with different cookie cutter shapes for a fun twist!
• Store leftover cookies in an airtight container for maximum freshness.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls: Use large ones for preparing dough; a sturdy alternative works fine.
• Electric mixer: A hand mixer or whisk can do the job if you prefer a workout!
• Rolling pin: If you don’t have one, a wine bottle can work in a pinch.
• Cookie cutters: Any shape will do; use a glass for round cookies.
• Baking sheets: Line them with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Variations on Peppermint Sugar Cookies

• Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: Add 1/3 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a delightful chocolate twist!
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that contains xanthan gum for similar results.
• Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil and the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water).
• Minty Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over frosted cookies for an elegant touch of decadence.
• Candy Cane Swirl: Incorporate crushed candy canes directly into the dough for an extra crunch and flavor burst.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair peppermint sugar cookies with a hot cup of cocoa or spiced tea for a cozy treat.
• Serve them on a festive platter, garnished with extra crushed candy canes for an inviting presentation.
• For a holiday gathering, consider a cookie bar with various toppings and frostings for guests to customize.
• Wrap individual cookies in clear cellophane, tied with a ribbon for charming party favors.

FAQs about Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Can I make peppermint sugar cookies in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. You can also freeze the unfrosted cookies for up to two months.

What’s the best way to store these cookies? Store your peppermint sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you want them to last longer, keep them in the fridge, where they can stay fresh for about a week.

Can I use peppermint essence instead of extract? I wouldn’t recommend it! Peppermint extract has a more robust flavor, while essence can often be less intense. Stick with peppermint extract for that holiday punch!

How can I adjust the sweetness of the frosting? If you find the frosting too sweet, simply add a splash of milk to thin it out. Alternatively, you can mix in more powdered sugar for added sweetness if needed. Balance is key!

What other toppings can I use besides crushed candy canes? For a delightful twist, try chopped nuts like pistachios or walnuts. You could also use mini chocolate chips, sprinkles, or even a drizzle of chocolate for extra flair!

Final Thoughts

Baking these peppermint sugar cookies is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience filled with joy and togetherness. Each soft, colorful cookie sparkles with festive spirit, ready to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. The simple steps lead to delightful flavors that evoke cherished memories of holidays past. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or decorated together with family, these cookies are a sweet reminder that sharing love and laughter is what the season is all about. So, roll up those sleeves, and let your kitchen become a haven of happiness this holiday season!

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