Name: Delicious Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies for Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 97 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (can substitute with coconut sugar); 2 large Eggs (no substitutions); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (use pure extract); 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (use pure extract); 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (can substitute with gluten-free flour); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (no substitutions); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (essential for flavor); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (no substitutions); 1/4 cup Heavy Cream (can substitute with non-dairy option)

As the holiday season approaches, the scent of peppermint wafts through the air, conjuring warm memories of twinkling lights and joyful gatherings. I’m excited to share my recipe for Easy Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies, a delightful treat that perfectly captures that nostalgic essence. Not only are these cookies wonderfully quick to whip up, making them ideal for last-minute cookie exchanges or festive soirées, but they also come with dairy-free and gluten-free options, so everyone can indulge. With their soft, chewy texture and a creamy frosting that mirrors the indulgence of a peppermint milkshake, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to your holiday celebrations. What special twist would you add to make these cookies your own?

Why will you adore these cookies?

Delightfully Festive: The bright peppermint flavor captures the magic of the holiday season, bringing cheer to any gathering.
Quick and Easy: This no-fuss recipe comes together in just a couple of steps, perfect for last-minute baking or cookie swaps.
Dairy and Gluten-Free Options: Everyone can join in on the flavor fest with simple substitutes to cater to dietary needs.
Irresistible Texture: Expect soft, chewy cookies topped with a creamy frosting that feels like a holiday hug.
Customizable Bliss: Feel free to experiment with flavors—try adding cocoa powder for a chocolate-peppermint twist or crush candy canes for extra crunch! You might also enjoy making Apple Snickerdoodles Cozy or celebrating with a festive Cake Brown Sugar for more holiday treats.

Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies Ingredients

• Delightful flavors for festive baking!

For the Dough
Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and flavor; substitute with coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version (1:1 ratio).
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and contributes to texture; can be swapped with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; no substitutions advised for this recipe.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; ensure you use pure extract for the best taste.
Peppermint Extract – Delivers the signature holiday flavor; use pure extract for the best taste.
All-Purpose Flour – Offers structure and texture; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend (1:1, including xanthan gum).
Baking Powder – Helps cookies rise and become light; no substitutions recommended.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; essential for a well-rounded taste.
For the Frosting
Powdered Sugar – Used for sweetness and texture in frosting; no substitutions advised.
Heavy Cream – Adds creaminess to the frosting; substitute with non-dairy heavy cream if preferred.

Feel free to gather these ingredients and experience a warm, festive baking day with your loved ones while crafting these delightful Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is warming up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent cookies from sticking. This simple preparation will make your cookie-baking experience a breeze and ensure that your Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies come out perfectly.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a stand mixer, combine the unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy. This essential step adds air to your cookie dough, creating a delightful texture that is key in achieving the soft, chewy characteristic of your Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, crack in the eggs and add the vanilla and peppermint extracts to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture looks smooth. This fragrant blend is what brings the festive spirit into your Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to the wet mixture. Keep the mixer on low speed to prevent a flour cloud from forming. Mix until everything is just combined, ensuring not to overmix. This helps in maintaining that tender texture that makes these cookies so irresistible.

Step 5: Chill the Dough
Once your dough is ready, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling the dough solidifies the butter, making it easier to roll out and helping the cookies hold their shape while baking. This step is crucial for achieving beautifully shaped Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies.

Step 6: Roll and Cut the Cookies
After chilling, take the dough out of the fridge and roll it on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Using your favorite cookie cutters, cut out festive shapes. Lay the cut cookies on the prepared baking sheets, giving them some space in between to expand while baking.

Step 7: Freeze and Bake
To maintain their lovely shapes, freeze the cut cookies for about 10 minutes. This brief chill ensures they don’t spread too much in the oven. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 6 to 7 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them for that perfect bake!

Step 8: Cool Completely
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling stage is essential before frosting, as you want to avoid melting the frosting atop your Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies.

Step 9: Prepare the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter until fluffy. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar followed by the heavy cream, peppermint extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. The frosting should have a light, airy consistency that will beautifully adorn your cookies.

Step 10: Decorate the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, use a piping bag or spatula to decorate them with the creamy frosting. Let your creativity shine! You can add sprinkles or crushed candy canes on top for an extra festive touch that captures the essence of the holiday spirit in your Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies.

Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists for a personalized baking experience that ignites your holiday spirit!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter or coconut oil for a delightful dairy-free version.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend (1:1) including xanthan gum to cater to gluten sensitivities while enjoying these festive cookies.
Chocolate Peppermint: Stir in 1/4 cup of cocoa powder into the dough for a deliciously rich chocolate twist.
Candy Cane Crunch: Top your cookies with crushed candy canes for a delightful crunch and extra peppermint flavor.
Almond Twist: Swap vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty aroma that beautifully complements the peppermint essence.
Maple Sweetness: Replace granulated sugar with maple sugar for a unique, warm flavor profile that embodies the essence of the holidays.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a surprising and festive heat that balances out the sweetness.
Peppermint Mocha Frosting: Mix cocoa powder into the frosting to create a mocha-flavored topping that will tantalize your taste buds.

If you enjoy customizing recipes, you might also love diving into making Apple Snickerdoodles Cozy or exploring a festive Cake Brown Sugar that could turn your holiday gatherings into even sweeter memories!

Expert Tips for Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Chill the Dough Longer: If using coconut oil, chill the dough for at least an hour to ensure it firms up properly for easy rolling.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to keep your cookies tender and chewy; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Cool Before Frosting: Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting; this will help maintain a beautiful appearance.
Check Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accurate baking, ensuring perfectly baked Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies every time.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to mix things up with crushed candy canes or a dash of cocoa powder for a festive twist on these cookies.

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them fresh and chewy.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to 2 weeks; just ensure they are tightly wrapped to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the decorated or undecorated cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating: To bring back that just-baked warmth, pop frozen cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. Enjoy your Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies warm!

What to Serve with Easy Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies

When it comes to holiday gatherings, these festive cookies deserve delightful companions that enhance their sweet minty allure.

Rich Hot Cocoa: A cup of velvety hot cocoa provides a cozy complement to the cookies, perfect for dipping.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy chill of vanilla ice cream balances the festive sweetness and makes each bite heavenly.
Warm Apple Cider: A spiced warm apple cider brings a comforting warmth that pairs perfectly with the minty flavors.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, refreshing fruit salad cuts through the richness with its acidity, adding a pop of color and flavor contrast.
Chocolate Tart: A decadent chocolate tart will appeal to sweet lovers, and its richness contrasts beautifully with the peppermint notes.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A bubbly drink with a splash of lime refreshes the palate and cleanses between bites of sugary bliss.
Gingerbread Men: Serve your cookies alongside gingerbread men for a classic holiday duo that celebrates the season’s traditional flavors.

Each of these options brings its own unique texture and flavor to enhance your cookie experience, making your holiday celebrations unforgettable!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save precious time during the holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. If you’re looking to get even more ahead, you can cut out the cookies and freeze them for up to 3 days before baking. Just lay the shapes on a parchment-lined baking sheet and pop them in the freezer, then transfer them to an airtight container. When it’s time to bake, simply add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time while keeping an eye on them. Your cookies will taste just as fresh and delightful as if they were made on the spot!

Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, make sure your butter is at room temperature—soft but not melted—as it helps achieve that fluffy texture when creamed with sugar. If using eggs, choose large eggs for the best binding. Fresh peppermint extract is preferred for that classic holiday flavor, while sugar should be granulated for the right sweetness.

What are the best storage methods for these cookies?
To keep your Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to save them for longer, the refrigerator can keep them good for up to 2 weeks; just make sure they are well-wrapped.

Can I freeze these cookies, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your Christmas Peppermint Sugar Cookies, place them in an airtight container (you can layer them with parchment paper between layers if desired) for up to 2 months. For decorated cookies, allow them to freeze completely on a baking sheet before transferring them to the container—this helps keep the frosting intact. To enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them up in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very good question! If your cookies spread excessively during baking, it often means the dough was too warm or not chilled for long enough. Next time, ensure your dough is adequately chilled in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Also, freezing the cut cookie shapes for about 10 minutes before baking, as suggested, will help them keep their shape better in the oven.

Are there any allergy considerations I should know about?
Absolutely! These cookies can be made dairy-free by substituting the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and using non-dairy heavy cream for the frosting. If gluten is a concern, opt for a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum. Always check your extracts for any allergens, and remember to instruct guests on the ingredient modifications if serving to those with dietary restrictions.

Can pets have this cookie?
Although it’s tempting to share treats with your furry friends, it’s best to keep these cookies away from pets due to the sugar and extracts that may not be safe for them. Always opt for pet-friendly treats if you want to include your beloved companions in the holiday magic!