Introduction
There’s something undeniably magical about the festive season, especially when it comes to the comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. These Easy Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies are more than just treats; they’re a delightful burst of holiday cheer in every bite! With a rich, buttery flavor paired with a refreshing peppermint twist, these cookies are sure to become a beloved tradition in your holiday baking repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for optional decoration)
- Additional crushed peppermint candies (for garnish, optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a delightful base for your cookies.
- Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, ensuring all the ingredients are well combined and brimming with festive flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, blending the dry ingredients so they evenly distribute a supportive structure to your cookies.
- Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cookies to remain tender!
- Gently fold in the crushed peppermint candies, introducing a wonderful crunch and burst of minty flavor into the dough.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, rolling them into smooth balls, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart for even baking.
- Using the bottom of a glass or your fingers, flatten each ball slightly to give them a nice shape while they bake.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are just set, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- If desired, once the cookies have cooled, dust them with powdered sugar and top with additional crushed peppermint candies for a festive garnish!
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of holiday flair, consider adding a drizzle of melted chocolate over the cooled cookies. This not only enhances the visual appeal but adds a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with peppermint. If you prefer softer cookies, be sure not to overbake them; they should be just set in the center when you remove them from the oven.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe employs simple baking techniques that are perfect for bakers of all levels. The creaming method is used to incorporate air into the butter and sugar, creating a light texture, while careful folding helps maintain the integrity of the crushed peppermint pieces. It’s all about balance — the right mix of technique and love!
FAQ
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! You can wrap the cookie dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
What if I can’t find crushed peppermint candies?
No problem! You can use crushed candy canes or chop regular peppermint candies. They will work just as well to give your cookies that perfect holiday flavor.
Conclusion
These Easy Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies are not just a treat; they’re an invitation to gather with loved ones and celebrate the joy of the season. With their sweet, buttery base and refreshing peppermint candy crunch, every cookie offers a reminder of warm holiday memories. So, roll up your sleeves and get baking; a tray of these cookies is sure to make your holidays a little sweeter!