When you think of holiday treats, peppermint cookies often come to mind. Their sweet, minty flavor paired with the perfect crunch makes them a seasonal favorite. These cookies capture the essence of the festive season with every bite, marrying the warmth of freshly baked goods with the refreshing taste of peppermint. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, a cozy night at home, or just because you love cookies, this peppermint cookie recipe will bring joy to your kitchen and to all who taste them.
Why We Love This Peppermint Cookies Recipe
These peppermint cookies are more than just a sweet indulgence; they bring with them the spirit of the season. The combination of buttery sweetness and the invigorating kick of peppermint makes these cookies irresistible. Their delightful aroma as they bake will have everyone in your household anticipating the first batch. Additionally, these cookies are simple enough for beginner bakers yet deliciously impressive for seasoned pros. You’ll find that they not only taste fantastic but also add a festive touch to your dessert table.
Ingredients about Peppermint Cookies
To create these delectable peppermint cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups Gold Medal® all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- Red and white sprinkles or crushed peppermint for decoration
Gathering these ingredients sets you on the path to creating these delightful treats. Each one plays a critical role in contributing to the cookies’ flavor and texture.
How to Make Peppermint Cookies Directions
Creating peppermint cookies is a straightforward process, and it all starts with the perfect preparation. Here’s how you can make your delicious peppermint cookies step by step:
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will allow it to reach the perfect baking temperature while you prepare your cookie dough.
- Creaming the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using a mixer, cream them together until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, leading to a lighter cookie texture.
- Add the Egg and Extracts: Next, beat in the egg to the butter and sugar mixture. Follow this with the vanilla and peppermint extracts. Mixing these ingredients well enhances the richness of the cookies and ensures that the peppermint flavor is evenly distributed.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. This step ensures that the leavening agents are evenly mixed with the flour, preventing any unexpected clumps in your cookie dough.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet ingredients bowl. Mix until just combined; be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
- Forming the Cookies: Take small portions of dough and roll them into balls, placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Keep some space between each dough ball, as they will spread during baking.
- Flatten and Decorate: Once your dough balls are on the sheet, flatten each one slightly with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass. This will help them spread evenly as they bake. Top each cookie with red and white sprinkles or crushed peppermint to give them that festive look.
- Baking the Cookies: Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as you want them to stay soft in the center.
- Cooling Time: After baking, remove the cookies from the oven. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time helps them firm up a little, making them easier to handle.
With these steps, you are well on your way to enjoying a batch of scrumptious peppermint cookies!
How to Serve Peppermint Cookies
Once your peppermint cookies are baked and cooled, it’s time to enjoy them! You can serve them on a festive platter as part of a holiday dessert spread. Pair these cookies with a glass of milk, hot cocoa, or even a warm cup of herbal tea. The minty flavor complements so many drinks, enhancing your overall snacking experience.
For special gatherings, consider decorating the cookie plate with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation. These cookies also make excellent gifts; you can package them in lovely boxes or jars tied with a festive ribbon. Sharing homemade treats is a wonderful way to spread joy and cheer during any season.
Expert Tips: Peppermint Cookies
To ensure your peppermint cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips to follow:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before mixing it with sugar. This will help create that light, fluffy texture crucial for delicious cookies.
- Perfectly Measure Your Flour: Use the spoon and level method when measuring flour. It’s easy to pack flour down into a cup, leading to dry cookies. Spoon it in gently and level it off for the right amount.
- Mixing Time: Avoid over-mixing the cookie dough once the dry ingredients are added. This will keep your cookies tender instead of hard.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For thicker cookies, consider chilling the dough for about 30 minutes after mixing. This reduces spreading and enhances the flavor as the dough rests.
- Watch the Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. The edges should be golden while the centers remain slightly soft.
By following these tips, you’ll ensure that your cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing.
How to Store Peppermint Cookies
Once you’ve enjoyed your peppermint cookies, you might find yourself with some leftovers. To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for about five to seven days.
If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the cookies. Simply layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy them later, let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them back up.
Variation of Peppermint Cookies
While the classic peppermint cookie recipe is delightful as is, there are numerous variations you can try to mix things up. Here are a few ideas:
- Chocolate Peppermint Cookies: Add 1/3 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and some chocolate chips to the dough. The combination of chocolate and peppermint is always a hit.
- Peppermint Bark Cookies: Top your cookies with crushed peppermint bark instead of just sprinkles. This adds a gourmet touch and a rich chocolate flavor.
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- Add Nuts: For an extra crunch, fold in some chopped nuts such as walnuts or almonds. This adds texture and flavor that complements the peppermint.
- Dipped in Chocolate: After cooling, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and sprinkle with crushed peppermint for a decadent twist.
Feel free to explore these variations or come up with your own creative ideas!
FAQ: Peppermint Cookies
What is the best way to make peppermint cookies?
The best way to make peppermint cookies is to follow a reliable recipe that emphasizes proper mixing techniques, ingredient measurements, and baking times, as outlined in this guide. This ensures a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
How long do peppermint cookies last?
Peppermint cookies last about five to seven days when stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months.
Can I make peppermint cookies in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it or freeze it until you’re ready to bake. This allows you to enjoy freshly baked cookies anytime with minimal effort.
How do I get a stronger peppermint flavor in my cookies?
To enhance the peppermint flavor, you can increase the amount of peppermint extract in your recipe or incorporate crushed peppermint candies into the dough. Just be cautious, as too much peppermint extract can overpower the other flavors.