Discover the secret to soft, flavorful Peppermint Cookies with this easy step-by-step baking guide. These delightful treats are bursting with that classic cool peppermint flavor and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes them perfect for the holidays or anytime you crave something sweet and refreshing. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will walk you through everything you need to create the perfect batch of these festive cookies everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Follow: Simple steps that guide you gently through the entire baking process, perfect for bakers of all levels.
Perfect Texture: Soft and chewy centers with slightly crisp edges offer a delightful bite every time.
Classic Flavor: The refreshing peppermint flavor shines brightly without overpowering sweet undertones.
Customizable: Adapt the recipe to suit your taste, adding chocolate chips or nuts with ease.
Great for Any Occasion: From holiday parties to casual snacking, these cookies fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind these Peppermint Cookies comes together with just a handful of simple, high-quality ingredients. Each plays a unique role in ensuring your cookies have the perfect taste, texture, and festive appeal.

All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the cookies, balancing softness with a gentle chew.
Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a light, airy feel.
Salt: Enhances all other flavors, making the peppermint pop.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and a tender crumb; softened for easy mixing.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cookies and contributes to their slight crispness on edges.
Light Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and depth of flavor for that chewy texture.
Egg: Binds ingredients and adds moisture for perfect softness.
Vanilla Extract: Balances the peppermint with a warm, aromatic note.
Peppermint Extract: The star ingredient delivering that unmistakable cool, minty flavor.
Crushed Candy Canes: Adds festive color, crunch, and extra peppermint burst.

Variations for Peppermint Cookies

Feel free to personalize this Peppermint Cookies recipe to match your taste buds or dietary needs. It’s easy to swap or add ingredients to create new delicious experiences.

Chocolate Chip Peppermint: Toss in some mini chocolate chips for a classic chocolate and mint combo.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to keep it safe and tasty.
Vegan Version: Use flax eggs and plant-based butter to make these minty treats vegan-friendly.
Double Peppermint: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate and sprinkle extra crushed candy canes on top for an indulgent twist.
Nutty Surprise: Mix in chopped pecans or almonds for added crunch and flavor complexity.

How to Make Peppermint Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Gather and measure out all your ingredients to keep things smooth as you bake.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and seasoning.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar and light brown sugar until fluffy and light in color. This step incorporates air, contributing to the cookie’s soft texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Extracts

Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until smooth and well combined. These give the dough moisture, flavor, and binding power.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined to prevent overworking the dough, which can lead to tougher cookies.

Step 6: Incorporate Crushed Candy Canes

Fold in the crushed candy canes carefully to preserve their crunchy texture and peppermint flavor throughout the dough.

Step 7: Scoop and Bake

Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop dough balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set perfectly without losing their softness.

Pro Tips for Making Peppermint Cookies

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensures better mixing and even texture throughout the dough.
Don’t Overbake: Pull the cookies out when edges are just golden to keep the centers soft and chewy.
Crush Candy Canes Finely: For even distribution and a smooth texture, avoid large chunks that might break teeth.
Chill the Dough: Refrigerate for 30 minutes if possible to enhance flavor melding and prevent spreading.
Use Quality Peppermint Extract: A good extract makes all the difference in achieving an authentic minty flavor.

How to Serve Peppermint Cookies

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra crushed candy canes or powdered sugar on top of the cookies for an extra festive touch that looks as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

Serve Peppermint Cookies alongside hot cocoa, coffee, or a glass of cold milk to complement the cool, refreshing mint flavor perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange cookies on a holiday platter with sprigs of fresh mint or edible red and green decorations for a cheerful presentation that steals the show at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Peppermint Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, preserving their softness and flavor.

Freezing

Allow cookies to cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months.

Reheating

Warm frozen or stored cookies for a few seconds in the microwave or a low oven to bring back their soft, just-baked texture and smell.

FAQs

Can I use regular mint extract instead of peppermint extract?

Yes, but peppermint extract has a sharper, cooler flavor that defines these cookies, so substituting may result in a milder mint taste.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

Simply replace the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free baking blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

Are peppermint candies necessary for the recipe?

While not required, crushed candy canes add delightful crunch and enhance the peppermint flavor, making the cookies extra special.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and replace the egg with a flax or chia egg for a vegan-friendly version.

How should I store leftover cookies to keep them fresh?

Store Peppermint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, and avoid refrigeration, which can dry them out quickly.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like biting into soft, minty Peppermint Cookies that fill your kitchen with their wonderful aroma and festive cheer. This recipe offers an easy, fail-proof way to make a batch of your own, perfect for sharing with friends, family, or just treating yourself. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a delicious, peppermint-infused baking adventure you’ll want to come back to again and again.