Easy Homemade Peppermint Christmas Cookies – Complete Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar, sifted (for frosting)
- 1/4 cup milk (or heavy cream) (for frosting)
- 1/2 teaspoon pure peppermint extract (for frosting)
- 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for frosting)
- Pinch of salt (for frosting)
- Red food coloring (optional)
- Crushed candy canes, for sprinkling
Instructions
- 1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- 2. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract until well combined.
- 3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- 4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- 5. Divide the dough into two equal portions, flatten each into a disk, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 days). This helps prevent spreading.
- 6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- 7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use your favorite Christmas cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Reroll scraps as needed.
- 8. Carefully transfer the cut-out cookies to the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
- 9. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Cookies should still be soft in the center. Do not overbake.
- 10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- 11. While cookies cool, prepare the frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, alternating with milk, until smooth and fluffy. Beat in the peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Add red food coloring, if desired, until you reach your preferred shade.
- 12. Once cookies are completely cool, frost each cookie using a spatula or butter knife. Immediately sprinkle with crushed candy canes before the frosting sets.
- 13. Let the frosting set before stacking or storing the cookies.
Variations & Serving Ideas
- Customize Peppermint Punch: Peppermint extract is powerful! Begin with the recommended amount in both the dough and frosting, then taste and gradually add more if you desire a bolder mint flavor.
- Unleash Your Creativity: While crushed candy canes are classic, feel free to get creative with your decorations! Think edible glitter, various festive sprinkles, or a delicate drizzle of melted white chocolate.
- Texture Preference: For a softer cookie, remove them from the oven when the edges are just set and the centers still look a bit pale. If you prefer a crispier bite, bake an extra minute or two until the edges are golden brown.
- Smart Storage: Keep unfrosted cookies fresh in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Frosted cookies last 2-3 days at room temp or up to a week refrigerated.
These delightful homemade peppermint sugar cookies are a festive star for any occasion! Arrange them beautifully on a holiday platter, pack them into charming cookie tins for thoughtful gifts, or simply enjoy them with your favorite hot beverage like a cozy mug of hot cocoa or a festive peppermint mocha. For presentation, consider a tiered serving tray or a decorative glass jar. Any rare leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week. Unfrosted cookies freeze wonderfully for up to three months – just thaw and decorate when you’re ready to spread some homemade cheer!
And there you have it, fellow home cooks – a recipe for pure holiday joy, baked right in your own kitchen! These Easy Homemade Peppermint Christmas Cookies are more than just a treat; they’re an invitation to create heartwarming memories. So, roll up your sleeves, put on some carols, and let the magic of homemade baking fill your home. We’d absolutely love to see your festive creations and hear about your baking adventures in the comments below!
