Name: Peppermint Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon peppermint extract; 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 batch pink peppermint frosting; ½ cup crushed candy canes (for topping)

Looking for the ultimate holiday cookie that’s both festive and melt-in-your-mouth delicious? These Peppermint Sugar Cookies are the answer. With their soft centers, creamy peppermint frosting, and crushed candy cane topping, they strike the perfect balance between nostalgic comfort and holiday cheer. These cookies are a must for cookie exchanges, winter parties, or just a cozy baking day at home.

What sets them apart? It’s the cooling zing of peppermint layered over a buttery sugar cookie base, finished with a swirl of soft pink frosting and that candy cane crunch. They look as joyful as they taste, making them ideal for gifting or setting out on a dessert table.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring these cookies to life, start with the right tools that ensure consistency and ease. A stand mixer or hand mixer is crucial for creaming the butter and sugar to achieve that soft, airy dough. Mixing bowls are essential for separating wet and dry ingredients.

For shaping the cookies, use a cookie scoop to get even, perfectly sized rounds. A baking sheet lined with parchment paper ensures even baking and easy cleanup. Once the cookies are cooled, a small offset spatula helps spread the frosting smoothly, and a rolling pin or heavy pan works great for gently crushing the candy canes for that final festive touch.

Having these tools on hand doesn’t just make baking easier—they make your cookies look professionally made, every single time.

Ingredients for the Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Each ingredient plays a distinct role in creating the signature texture and flavor of these festive cookies:

Unsalted Butter: This provides a rich, creamy base. Softened butter ensures your cookies are tender and flavorful.
Granulated Sugar: Classic for sweetness and structure, it helps create the perfect chewy-soft cookie texture.
Egg: Acts as a binder and contributes to the soft, tender crumb.
Vanilla Extract: Balances the peppermint and adds a warm, aromatic undertone.
Peppermint Extract: Delivers that cool, minty zing that defines these cookies.
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the dough. It gives the cookies structure without making them too dense.
Baking Powder: Adds a gentle lift, keeping the cookies light and pillowy.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
Crushed Candy Canes: Sprinkled on top for festive crunch and visual appeal.
Pink Peppermint Frosting: A buttery, creamy frosting tinted pink and infused with peppermint. It’s what transforms these cookies from everyday to holiday special.

How To Make the Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step creates the base for a soft cookie.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until fully combined. This infuses the dough with flavor and ensures a smooth texture.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients Separately

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution before combining with the wet mixture.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Use a cookie scoop to portion dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Slightly flatten each ball. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are just set.

Step 6: Cool and Frost

Let cookies cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, spread the peppermint frosting generously on each cookie and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.

How to Serve and Store These Peppermint Sugar Cookies

These cookies are made for holiday trays, cookie swaps, or cozy nights in with a mug of hot cocoa. Their soft centers and vibrant pink frosting make them eye-catching on any dessert spread. Serve them chilled for a refreshing peppermint bite or at room temperature for a buttery melt-in-your-mouth experience.

To store, place the frosted cookies in a single layer in an airtight container. If stacking is necessary, use parchment paper between layers. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for 5–7 days. You can also freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 2 months—just add frosting and crushed candy canes after thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How strong is the peppermint flavor?

It’s noticeable but balanced. The peppermint extract in both the cookie and frosting adds that signature holiday flavor without overpowering the buttery base.

Can I use store-bought frosting?

Yes, but homemade peppermint frosting elevates the overall taste and texture. If using store-bought, mix in a few drops of peppermint extract and tint it pink.

What’s the best way to crush candy canes?

Place them in a zip-top bag and gently crush with a rolling pin or heavy skillet. Aim for small shards rather than dust for best texture.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. The dough can be refrigerated for up to 48 hours. Just let it come to room temperature slightly before scooping and baking.

Are these cookies good for gifting?

They’re perfect! Their festive look and sturdy texture make them ideal for wrapping up in cookie boxes or bags.

If these Peppermint Sugar Cookies brought a little magic to your kitchen, you might want to try a few more festive treats from the LadyPlate collection.

Take a look at the Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies for a nutty classic that’s perfect year-round. If fruity fillings call your name, the Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes add creamy layers and a nostalgic swirl.

You’ll also love the Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries, a no-bake option bursting with creamy sweetness. Or add some citrus charm to your holiday spread with Elegant Lemon Marbled Cheesecake Bars.

For something even more enchanting, check out the soft-and-fluffy Fluffy Japanese Soufflé Pancakes, a weekend project that feels like clouds on a plate.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you go heavy on the candy canes? Did you make your frosting extra minty? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others add their own twist.

For more holiday-ready recipes, visit my Pinterest page: LadyPlate Pinterest