Peppermint Crinkle Christmas Cookies Recipe

What kind of recipe is it?

Peppermint Crinkle Christmas Cookies are delightful festive treats that combine the rich flavors of chocolate and invigorating peppermint, creating a unique holiday experience.

These cookies are characterized by their soft, chewy texture and a beautiful crinkled appearance, dusted with powdered sugar which adds a snowy touch perfect for the season.

They’re not only delicious but also visually stunning, making them a fantastic choice for holiday gatherings and gift-giving. Ideal for cookie lovers of all ages, these cookies bring joy and warmth to any celebration.

Ingredients

Notes:

• Make sure the butter is melted and slightly cooled before mixing with other ingredients.
• The combination of granulated and brown sugar adds depth to the flavor of the cookies.
• Adjust the amount of peppermint extract to taste, based on personal preference for mint flavor intensity.

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F) and adjust the oven rack to the middle position. Line two baking sheets (approximately 38 cm x 28 cm or 15 in x 11 in) with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together 1 ½ cups (190 g) of all-purpose flour, ½ cup (50 g) of unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 tsp of baking powder, ½ tsp of baking soda, and ¼ tsp of salt. Set aside.
3. In another mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup (200 g) of granulated sugar, ½ cup (110 g) of packed brown sugar, and ½ cup (115 g or 1 stick) of melted unsalted butter until well combined and slightly creamy in texture.
4. Add 2 large eggs, 1 tsp of vanilla extract, and ½ tsp of peppermint extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Whisk until fully combined, ensuring a smooth consistency.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Don’t over-mix; the dough should be thick and slightly sticky.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let the dough rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps to enhance the flavors and improve the texture.
7. Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the dough (about 30 g each) and roll them into balls. The dough will be sticky, so you may want to lightly grease your hands or dust them with powdered sugar.
8. Roll each cookie ball in ½ cup (60 g) of powdered sugar until completely coated. Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them at least 5 cm (2 in) apart to allow for spreading.
9. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops look crinkled. The aroma should be rich and chocolaty, with a hint of peppermint.
10. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They should have a soft and chewy texture with a slightly crisp edge.
11. Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness, or enjoy them warm for the best flavor experience.

Variations

• Mint Chocolate Chip Crinkle Cookies: Add ½ cup (90 g) of mini chocolate chips and increase the peppermint extract to 1 tsp for a minty chocolatey twist.
• Gluten-Free Peppermint Crinkles: Substitute the all-purpose flour with 1 ½ cups (190 g) of gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to cater to gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan Peppermint Crinkles: Replace eggs with ½ cup (120 g) of unsweetened applesauce and use dairy-free butter instead of regular butter for a plant-based version.
• White Chocolate Peppermint Crinkles: Mix in ½ cup (90 g) of white chocolate chips and reduce the cocoa powder to ⅓ cup (40 g) for a festive white chocolate flavor with a peppermint kick.

Tips on plating and presentation

To elevate the festive spirit of your peppermint crinkle cookies, I like to focus on how they’re plated and presented. A simple white plate enhances the cookie’s colors.

I often sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a snowy effect. Adding a few peppermint candies as garnish gives a pop of color.

Finally, a charming holiday napkin underneath ties everything together beautifully.

What other dishes can I pair it with?

While indulging in peppermint crinkle cookies, I love to pair them with a warm cup of hot chocolate or spiced tea.

I also find that a plate of fruit and cheese complements the sweetness perfectly.

For a festive spread, combine them with biscotti or gingerbread.

These pairings create a delightful mix of flavors for the holiday season, enriching my cookie experience.

What drinks can I pair it with?

A warm, festive treat like peppermint crinkle cookies pairs wonderfully with a variety of drinks.

I love enjoying them with a hot cup of cocoa, which perfectly complements their minty flavor.

For a festive twist, try pairing them with eggnog or a homemade peppermint latte.

Even a simple cup of tea can enhance the experience while adding to the cozy holiday spirit.

Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Freeze Peppermint Crinkle Cookies for Later Use?

Yes, I freeze peppermint crinkle cookies all the time. I let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container. When I’m ready to enjoy, I thaw them at room temperature.

How Long Do Peppermint Crinkle Cookies Stay Fresh?

Peppermint crinkle cookies stay fresh for about a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. I always enjoy them best within the first few days, when they’re still soft and flavorful.

Are There Any Gluten-Free Options for This Recipe?

Yes, I’ve tried gluten-free flour blends, and they work great! Just make sure to choose one that includes xanthan gum. My gluten-free peppermint crinkle cookies turned out just as delicious and festive as the original!

Can I Use Other Types of Extracts Instead of Peppermint?

I’ve used vanilla and almond extracts in my cookies before, and they turned out delicious. Feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors; just keep in mind they’ll taste different from the traditional peppermint.

What Is the Origin of the Peppermint Crinkle Cookie?

The peppermint crinkle cookie likely originated from classic crinkle recipes, evolving over time to incorporate festive flavors. I love how these cookies combine chocolate sweetness and peppermint’s invigorating touch, making them perfect for holiday celebrations!