Name: Delicious Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies for Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 127 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Room temperature, or substitute with coconut oil or vegan butter for dairy-free options.); 1 cup White Sugar (Can be replaced with coconut sugar or a stevia-erythritol blend for lower glycemic needs.); 2 large Eggs (No substitute recommended for best results.); 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract (Preferably pure for depth of flavor.); 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (Ensure it's pure for optimal taste.); 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with a gluten-free blend for gluten-free variations.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Freshness is key for successful baking.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (Essential for a smooth frosting; no substitutes recommended unless for dietary needs.); 1/4 cup Heavy Cream (For a lighter option, opt for milk or a dairy-free cream.)

The scent of peppermint wafting through the air instantly transports me back to childhood holiday gatherings, where cookies adorned with cheerful frosting brought joy to every corner of the kitchen. If you’re looking to capture that cozy festive spirit, my Easy Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies are a must-try! These sweet delights are not only simple to whip up but also perfect for sharing with friends and family, whether at cookie exchanges or laid out for Santa on Christmas Eve. Plus, there are variations to suit everyone’s dietary needs—think gluten-free and dairy-free options that don’t compromise on flavor. So, are you ready to fill your home with warmth and cheer while creating delicious memories? Let’s get baking!

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Why are these cookies a must-bake?

Deliciously Festive: The combination of peppermint and vanilla creates a joyfully festive flavor that’s perfect for the holiday season.

Accommodating for All: With options for dairy-free and gluten-free variations, everyone can enjoy a bite of festive cheer!

Easy to Make: You’ll find this recipe incredibly simple to follow, making it ideal for bakers of all skill levels.

Perfect for Sharing: Great for cookie exchanges or holiday parties, these cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Scent that Enchants: As they bake, the aroma of peppermint fills your kitchen, bringing a delightful warmth that feels just like Christmas.

For another sweet treat, consider trying my Lemon Sugar Cookies or Fudgy Cookies and Cream Brownies—each packed with flavor and festivity!

Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; substitute with coconut oil or vegan butter for dairy-free options.
White Sugar – Provides sweetness and structure; can be replaced with coconut sugar or a stevia-erythritol blend for lower glycemic needs.
Eggs – Bind the ingredients together; no substitute recommended for best results.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; prefer to use pure vanilla extract for depth.
Peppermint Extract – Gives the characteristic peppermint flavor; ensure it’s pure for optimal taste.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with a gluten-free blend for gluten-free variations.
Baking Powder – Aids in leavening; freshness is key for successful baking.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.

For the Frosting

Powdered Sugar – Essential for a smooth frosting; no substitutes recommended unless for dietary needs.
Heavy Cream – Adds creaminess; for a lighter option, opt for milk or a dairy-free cream.

These ingredients come together to create your festive Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies that are not only delicious but also adaptable for everyone’s dietary preferences!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick. This preparation is crucial for achieving perfectly baked Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a stand mixer, combine the room temperature unsalted butter and white sugar. Beat them together on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, showcasing a pale color. This step adds air to your dough, creating a delightful texture for your cookies.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, add in the eggs, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the creamy butter and sugar mixture. Mix on low speed until fully incorporated. Ensure the mixture is smooth; this will infuse your Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies with wonderful flavor.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Use a spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl and ensure everything is combined without overmixing. The dough should be slightly sticky and hold together well—just what you want for the perfect cookie!

Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. This chilling time is essential as it allows the flavors to meld and makes the dough easier to handle while rolling out.

Step 6: Roll and Shape
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out festive shapes. If the dough starts sticking, sprinkle a little more flour. This step shapes your cookies fun and festive for the holidays!

Step 7: Freeze Before Baking
Lay the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheets and pop them in the freezer for about 10 minutes. Chilling them again helps maintain their shape while baking, ensuring your Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies come out perfectly.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 6-7 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should be just golden while the centers remain soft. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 9: Make the Frosting
In a clean bowl, beat the room temperature butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, peppermint extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue beating until the mixture is smooth and creamy for delicious frosting on your cookies.

Step 10: Frost and Decorate
Once the cookies have completely cooled, spread the peppermint frosting on top. Feel free to decorate with additional sprinkles or crushed candy canes for an extra festive touch, enhancing the charm of your Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies for everyone to enjoy!

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Make Ahead Options

If you’re looking to save time during the festive rush, these Easy Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by covering it tightly and refrigerating. For added convenience, roll and cut the cookies into shapes, then freeze them on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring to a freezer bag; they will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, just pop the frozen cookies directly into a preheated oven, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, you’ll have delicious, freshly baked Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies without any last-minute stress!

Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies Variations

Feel inspired to make this festive treat your own! Customizations await your creative touch, adding an extra twist to your holiday baking.

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter for coconut oil or vegan butter at a 1:1 ratio. Both keep the cookies rich without the dairy.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for better structure in your cookies.
Lower Glycemic: Replace white sugar with coconut sugar or a stevia-erythritol blend for a sweet touch that’s kinder to your blood sugar levels.
Flavor Alternative: Swap out peppermint extract for vanilla or almond extract to give your cookies a unique twist that still feels festive.
Chocolate Lovers’ Upgrade: Add ¼ cup of cocoa powder to the dough and finish with chocolate or vanilla frosting for a chocolate peppermint fusion.
Crunchy Decor: Decorate cookies with crushed candy canes or walnuts for delightful texture and festive flair—they’re not just pretty but deliciously crunchy!
Sprinkle Magic: Drizzle some melted white chocolate and sprinkle with festive red and green sprinkles for a beautiful finishing touch that’s sure to impress.
Spicy Warmth: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a cozy, spiced flavor that’ll warm your heart as you enjoy each bite.

Looking for more delightful treats? Try my Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies for a comforting spin, or satisfy your craving with Brown Sugar Pop Tart Cookies.

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.

Fridge: If you need more time, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks; the flavor deepens as they chill!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to 1 month.

Reheating: To enjoy frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds; then frost before serving your delightful Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies!

Expert Tips for Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming, creating a light, fluffy texture that enhances your cookies.
Chill Dough Well: Don’t skip the chilling step! It makes the dough easier to roll and prevents cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Prevent Overmixing: Mix your dry ingredients just until incorporated; overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Aim for a slightly sticky dough for the best Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies.
Use Fresh Baking Powder: Baking powder should be fresh to ensure proper leavening. An expired ingredient can ruin the texture of your cookies.
Customize Your Frosting: Adjust the sugar in your frosting to suit your taste. Sifting powdered sugar can create a smoother frosting consistency for beautiful decorations!
Storage Tips: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft, and remember to freeze any unfrosted cookies for longer freshness.

What to Serve with Easy Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Fill your holiday table with a delightful array of pairings to elevate your festive spirit!

Hot Cocoa: The creamy richness of hot cocoa enhances the peppermint flavor and adds warmth to your cookie experience. Cozy up by the fire with a steaming mug, perfect for winter nights.
Coffee or Espresso: A robust cup of coffee cuts through the sweetness, balancing the cookies’ soft and chewy texture while providing a lovely morning treat.
Milk: Always a classic choice, milk complements the sweetness of these cookies, making each bite feel like a nostalgic trip back to childhood.
Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad contrasts the rich cookies, offering a vibrant splash of color and natural sweetness that brightens up your festive table.
Peppermint Bark: Enhance the winter theme with this crunchy chocolate treat. Its layers of chocolate blended with peppermint echoes the flavors of your cookies.
Holiday Punch: Serve a festive holiday punch, brimming with seasonal spices and fruits, to create a merry atmosphere that complements the sweet holiday treats.

Pairing these delightful options with your Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies promises to create a charming and festive gathering that friends and family will cherish. Happy baking and entertaining!

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Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select peppermint extract?
To ensure the best flavor for your Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies, opt for pure peppermint extract over imitation extracts. Pure extracts tend to provide a stronger, more authentic peppermint flavor, which is essential for that festive taste. Look for a brand that lists only peppermint extract in the ingredients, with no artificial additives.

How should I store my Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies?
You can store your baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. This helps maintain their delightful softness. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Just be mindful that refrigeration can slightly alter the texture.

Can I freeze my Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze unfrosted cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer the frozen cookies to a zip-top bag or airtight container, where they’ll keep for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature and frost as desired for a fresh treat.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies spread more than you’d like, there are a couple of things to consider. First, ensure your dough is well-chilled before rolling it out and cutting shapes. If they’ve already baked and spread, you can try chilling them for a short period before baking next time, as this helps keep their shape. Additionally, check that your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening agents can contribute to unwanted spreading.

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Yes! The recipe can easily be tailored for dietary preferences. For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of unsalted butter, and substitute with a dairy-free cream for the frosting. You can also make these cookies gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Always ensure that other ingredients, like baking powder and extracts, are also gluten-free if necessary.