Get ready to indulge in a festive treat that will have your taste buds dancing with joy! These Peppermint Sugar Cookies are not only a delightful addition to your holiday baking lineup, but they also come with a charming twist of minty freshness that will leave everyone craving more. With a mere 25 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll find yourself whipping up a batch of these scrumptious cookies in no time. Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the world of peppermint-infused bliss!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Crushed peppermint candies for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Add the large egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of dry ingredients.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Gently flatten each cookie ball with the bottom of a glass or the palm of your hand to create uniform thickness.
- Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the top of each cookie, gently pressing them into the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For best flavor and texture, enjoy within 2-3 days of baking.
Tips
- Chill the Dough: For an even better texture and flavor, consider chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the peppermint flavor.
- Use Fresh Peppermint Extract: Always opt for high-quality peppermint extract for the best taste. A little goes a long way, so start with the recommended amount and adjust to your preference.
- Don't Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so be gentle!
- Decorate with Flair: Get creative with the crushed peppermint candies! You can mix in some chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top for an extra decadent touch.
- Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.
- Storage Tips: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months.
- Perfect for Gifting: These cookies make fantastic gifts! Package them in festive tins or bags and share the holiday spirit with friends and family.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
