Perfect Peppermint Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Get ready to bake the ultimate peppermint cookies in just 20 minutes! These festive treats are bursting with cool mint flavor and are perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in. For more minty inspiration, try the Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe or the Peppermint Chocolate Chunk Muffins Recipe.

Ingredients

These festive cookies deliver a delightful crunch from crushed candy canes and a creamy sweetness from white chocolate, all wrapped in a soft, minty dough that fills your kitchen with holiday cheer.

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 pinch baking powder
• 1 pinch salt
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
• 3/4 cup white chocolate chips

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	10 minutes
Total Time	25 minutes

Context: These Perfect Peppermint Cookies come together about 20% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all ingredients for your Perfect Peppermint Cookies: butter, sugar, flour, egg, peppermint extract, and crushed candy canes. Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for proper creaming. Measure flour accurately by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife.

Step 2 — Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes on medium speed. This step incorporates air into your Perfect Peppermint Cookies, creating a tender texture. Scrape down the bowl sides periodically to ensure even mixing.

Step 3 — Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the egg and peppermint extract until fully combined. Use pure peppermint extract rather than imitation for the best flavor in your Perfect Peppermint Cookies. The mixture may look slightly curdled at this stage—this is normal and will resolve when you add the dry ingredients.

Step 4 — Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Overmixing at this stage can develop gluten and make your Perfect Peppermint Cookies tough. The dough should be soft but not sticky—if it’s too soft, chill it for 15 minutes before proceeding.

Step 5 — Shape and Chill Dough

Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls, then roll each ball in crushed candy canes to coat. Place cookies 2 inches apart on parchment-lined baking sheets. Chill the shaped cookies for 30 minutes—this prevents spreading and helps the candy coating adhere during baking.

Step 6 — Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the cookies chill. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden but centers still look slightly soft. The Perfect Peppermint Cookies will continue to set as they cool on the baking sheet. Rotate your baking sheet halfway through for even browning.

Step 7 — Cool Properly

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This allows them to firm up enough to handle without breaking. The candy cane coating will harden as the Perfect Peppermint Cookies cool completely, creating a delightful crunch.

Step 8 — Store or Serve

Once completely cooled, store your Perfect Peppermint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Information

Calories	125
Protein	1g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fat	6g
Fiber	0g
Sodium	85mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Almond flour — A gluten-free alternative that adds nutty flavor and reduces carbs.
• Coconut sugar — Lower glycemic index than refined sugar with subtle caramel notes.
• Greek yogurt — Replaces butter for added protein while maintaining moisture.
• Applesauce — Oil substitute that creates softer cookies with natural sweetness.
• Oat flour — Whole grain gluten-free option that adds fiber to your Perfect Peppermint Cookies.
• Vegan butter — Dairy-free alternative that preserves the classic cookie texture.
• Protein powder — Boost protein content while complementing the peppermint flavor.
• Reduced-sodium baking powder — Cuts sodium without affecting rise or texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these Perfect Peppermint Cookies with a warm mug of hot chocolate or a glass of cold milk for a classic holiday combination.
• Create a festive cookie platter by arranging these cookies alongside other seasonal treats like gingerbread men and sugar cookies.
• Serve these Perfect Peppermint Cookies at holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or as a sweet homemade gift packaged in a decorative tin.
• Crumble the cookies over a bowl of vanilla ice cream or peppermint ice cream for an easy and delicious dessert.
• For an elegant presentation, drizzle the cookies with white chocolate and sprinkle with extra crushed candy canes before serving.
• Pack these Perfect Peppermint Cookies in school lunches or enjoy them as an afternoon snack with a cup of coffee or tea.

These Perfect Peppermint Cookies are versatile enough for casual snacking and special occasions alike, bringing a burst of minty freshness to any gathering.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using melted butter, which causes cookies to spread too much. Fix: Cream room-temperature butter with sugar to create air pockets for structure.
• Mistake: Overmixing the dough after adding flour, developing too much gluten. Fix: Mix just until the flour disappears to keep your Perfect Peppermint Cookies tender.
• Mistake: Skipping the dough chill time, leading to flat cookies. Fix: Chill dough for at least 1 hour to solidify the fat and prevent spreading.
• Mistake: Using artificial peppermint extract, which can taste harsh. Fix: Opt for pure peppermint extract and start with ½ teaspoon, tasting as you go.
• Mistake: Crushing candy canes too finely, losing their festive crunch. Fix: Pulse in a food processor for coarse chunks or place in a bag and crush lightly.
• Mistake: Baking on a hot cookie sheet, causing the bottoms to burn. Fix: Always use a cool baking sheet or line with parchment paper for each batch.
• Mistake: Overbaking, which dries out the cookies and makes them hard. Fix: Bake until edges are just set; the centers will firm up as they cool.
• Mistake: Adding crushed candy to the dough instead of on top. Fix: Press candy pieces onto dough balls before baking so they don’t dissolve and turn chewy.
• Mistake: Measuring flour incorrectly, throwing off the dough consistency. Fix: Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
• Mistake: Storing warm cookies in a container, creating steam and sogginess. Fix: Cool cookies completely on a wire rack before storing in an airtight container.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store cooled Perfect Peppermint Cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container; they will keep for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm cookies in a 300°F oven for 5–8 minutes until heated through to a food-safe temperature.

Always let cookies cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess and preserve their delightful texture.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making these Perfect Peppermint Cookies as much as we do! If you’re looking for more festive treats, try our Soft Frosted Christmas Cookies Recipe or Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe. Share your results in the comments and subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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FAQs

Can I make these Perfect Peppermint Cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. Chill it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage. This makes baking your Perfect Peppermint Cookies convenient for any occasion.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Ensure your butter is properly softened but not melted, and chill the dough before baking. Using a cool baking sheet also helps maintain the shape of your Perfect Peppermint Cookies.

Can I use a different type of mint extract?

Yes, you can substitute with other mint extracts, but adjust the amount to taste as strengths vary. For the best flavor in these Perfect Peppermint Cookies, pure peppermint extract is recommended.