Get ready to transform your kitchen into a festive wonderland with these irresistible Peppermint Christmas Cookies that are guaranteed to make your taste buds dance with holiday cheer! Imagine biting into a perfectly soft, buttery cookie infused with refreshing peppermint and topped with crunchy candy cane pieces - it's like Christmas morning in every single bite. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a holiday cooking novice, these cookies are about to become your new seasonal obsession that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 42 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Crushed candy canes for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat for 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Add the large egg and mix well. Then incorporate the vanilla extract and peppermint extract, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to ensure even distribution of dry ingredients.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft cookie dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to handle and prevent spreading during baking.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Gently flatten each cookie with the bottom of a glass or your palm. Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top of each cookie.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Enjoy your festive Peppermint Christmas Cookies!
Tips
- Make sure your butter is truly softened but not melted - this ensures the perfect cookie texture.
- Chill the dough for at least 15-20 minutes to prevent spreading and maintain cookie shape.
- Use fresh, high-quality peppermint extract for the most vibrant flavor.
- Crush candy canes just before sprinkling to maintain their bright color and crisp texture.
- Don't overbake! Remove cookies when edges are just lightly golden for a soft, tender result.
- Let cookies cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
- For extra festive presentation, consider drizzling with white chocolate or adding holiday sprinkles.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 198kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
