Peppermint Christmas Cookies Recipe Easy

What kind of recipe is it?

Peppermint Christmas Cookies are a festive and delightful treat, perfect for the holiday season.

These soft and chewy cookies are infused with invigorating peppermint flavor, making them a favorite among both kids and adults.

Adorned with crushed candy canes, they offer a delightful crunch and a pop of color to your holiday cookie platter.

Ideal for family gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply to enjoy at home, this recipe is aimed at anyone looking to spread holiday cheer through baking.

Ingredients

Notes:

• Make sure to use soft, room-temperature butter for the best texture.
• For a more intense peppermint flavor, you can adjust the amount of peppermint extract according to personal preference.
• The crushed candy canes can be either store-bought or homemade by crushing regular candy canes.

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and position oven racks in the middle as necessary for even baking.
2. Line two baking sheets (approximately 30×38 cm or 12×15 inches) with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 315 g (2 ½ cups) of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt; set aside.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, cream together 226 g (1 cup) of softened unsalted butter, 200 g (1 cup) of granulated sugar, and 100 g (½ cup packed) of brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the butter-sugar mixture; mix on low speed until combined.
6. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the wet ingredients on low speed, mixing just until the flour is fully integrated and the dough begins to form.
7. Fold in 150 g (1 cup) of crushed candy canes and 170 g (1 cup) of white chocolate chips using a spatula until evenly distributed, ensuring not to overmix.
8. Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded balls of dough (about 30 g or 2 tablespoons each) onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 5 cm (2 inches) apart.
9. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden, and the centers are set but still soft—look for a slight sheen on top.
10. Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for 5 minutes to set before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely, about 15-20 minutes.
11. Once cooled, garnish with extra crushed candy canes if desired, pressing them lightly into the surface for adhesion.
12. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, maximizing freshness.

Enjoy your festive peppermint cookies!

Variations

• Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: Substitute 50 g (½ cup) of the all-purpose flour with unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor.
• Nutty Twist: Add 120 g (1 cup) of finely chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a nutty flavor enhancement.
• Vegan Peppermint Cookies: Replace butter with 226 g (1 cup) of coconut oil and use flax eggs (2 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoon water) instead of eggs for a plant-based version.
• Gluten-Free Peppermint Cookies: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for a gluten-free adaptation.

Tips on plating and presentation

How can I make my peppermint Christmas cookies look as delightful as they taste? Start by using a colorful plate or tiered stand to create height.

Dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a frosted effect. Add festive garnishes like crushed peppermint or a drizzle of white chocolate.

Finally, arrange them with holiday-themed decorations for a truly inviting presentation. Your guests will love the sight!

What other dishes can I pair it with?

After creating an eye-catching display for your peppermint Christmas cookies, you might wonder what other dishes can complement their festive flair.

I love pairing them with rich chocolate brownies or a classic gingerbread cake.

You can also serve a light fruit salad for a revitalizing contrast.

Don’t forget some holiday-themed cupcakes; their colorful decorations will enhance your dessert table beautifully!

What drinks can I pair it with?

What drinks can elevate your peppermint Christmas cookies?

I love pairing them with hot cocoa, as the rich chocolate complements the minty flavor perfectly.

A festive peppermint latte also enhances that holiday spirit!

If you prefer something bubbly, a sparkling peppermint-infused lemonade adds a revitalizing twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Fresh Peppermint Instead of Extract?

Absolutely, you can use fresh peppermint instead of extract! Just chop it finely and adjust the quantity according to your taste. I’ve found fresh herbs can add a delightful twist to baked goods. Enjoy experimenting!

How Long Do These Cookies Stay Fresh?

These cookies stay fresh for about a week when stored in an airtight container. I usually keep mine at room temperature, but freezing them extends their freshness for a month or more. Enjoy your baking!

Can I Freeze the Cookie Dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough! I often make a batch and freeze it for later. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and it’ll stay fresh for up to three months.

Are the Cookies Gluten-Free?

I made gluten-free cookies using almond flour and coconut flour, which turned out delicious! If you’re interested, I can share my adjustments to keep the festive flavor while ensuring they’re safe for gluten-sensitive friends.

What Baking Equipment Do I Need?

You’ll need a mixing bowl, spatula, measuring cups, and baking sheets. Don’t forget parchment paper for easy cleanup and a cookie cutter if you’re shaping them. I love having everything organized before I start baking!