Name: Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies for a Festive Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 71 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (can substitute with gluten-free flour blend); 1 teaspoon baking soda (ensure it’s fresh); 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (table salt works as a substitute); 1 cup unsalted butter (softened; can use margarine for dairy-free); 1 cup granulated white sugar (for a richer taste, use brown sugar); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (almond extract is a substitute); 1 large egg (replace with a flax egg for vegan version); 1 cup crushed peppermints or candy canes (adds mint flavor and crunch); 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling the cookies)

The aroma of freshly baked cookies can whisk me away to the cozy corners of a festive kitchen, where laughter dances along with the sweet scents of holiday cheer. That’s exactly how I feel when making these Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies—soft, flavorful, and oh-so-easy to whip up! Featuring delightful chunks of crushed candy canes, these cookies provide the perfect balance of minty freshness and sugary sweetness, making them a simple yet impressive addition to any holiday gathering. They're not just a treat for your taste buds; they're a slice of nostalgia, connecting us to cherished moments spent with loved ones. Plus, they come together in a flash, making them an effortless choice when the cookie-craving hits! Want to elevate your holiday baking game? Let’s dive into this festive recipe together!

Why Are Peppermint Sugar Cookies Perfect?

Irresistible Flavor: Bold peppermint mingles with sweetness in each bite, evoking holiday cheer.
Easy to Make: The simple steps make them perfect for bakers of all levels—no fancy tools required!
Festive Appeal: These cookies are visually stunning, with their vibrant crushed candy canes adding a pop of color to any dessert table.
Customizable: Add chocolate chips or substitute flavors for a unique twist that caters to different tastes.
Quick to Bake: With a fast prep time, you can whip up a batch in no time, ideal for unexpected guests.
Need more delicious cookie ideas? Don’t miss these Pineapple Cookies Tropical or our delightful White Chocolate Cookies. Happy baking!

Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cookies; can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a different texture.
Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent ensuring a soft and chewy cookie; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
Sea salt – Enhances flavors and balances sweetness; table salt works as a perfect substitute.
Unsalted butter – Adds richness and flavors to the dough; can use margarine or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Granulated white sugar – Sweetens up each bite; for a richer taste, use brown sugar instead.
Vanilla extract – Adds a delightful depth of flavor; almond extract is a lovely substitute if you're feeling adventurous.
Large egg – Binds the ingredients for a cohesive dough; replace with a flax egg for a vegan version.
Crushed peppermints or candy canes – Infuse your cookies with that signature peppermint flavor and delightful crunch; feel free to add chocolate chips for an extra indulgence!
Granulated sugar (for rolling) – Coats the cookie dough for sweetness and texture; no substitute needed since this is just for rolling.

With these ingredients, you’re on your way to creating cheery peppermint sugar cookies that will warm hearts this holiday season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and sea salt until well combined. This step is crucial for ensuring an even mixture of ingredients and preventing clumps. Set this mixture aside to focus on creating the dough.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated white sugar together on high speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This process adds air to the dough, giving your Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies a lovely texture, so don't rush it!

Step 3: Incorporate Egg and Vanilla
Add the large egg and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture, mixing on medium speed until fully incorporated, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The mixture will become smooth and creamy, providing the perfect foundation for the dough’s rich flavor.

Step 4: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients on low speed. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the dough, about 30 seconds. It’s okay if a few streaks of flour remain; this helps keep the cookies soft.

Step 5: Fold in Peppermint Crumbles
Using a spatula, gently fold in the crushed peppermints or candy canes until evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step adds delightful bursts of minty flavor and festive crunch, ensuring every bite of your Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies is a treat!

Step 6: Chill the Dough
Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. Chilling is vital, as it firms up the dough and prevents excessive spreading during baking, resulting in perfectly chewy cookies.

Step 7: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup later. Your kitchen will soon fill with the delectable aroma of baking cookies!

Step 8: Shape the Cookies
Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough, roll each in granulated sugar for added sweetness, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.

Step 9: Bake Until Perfectly Chewy
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set while the centers remain soft. Keep an eye on them; they should be lightly golden around the edges. This ensures that your Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies have that perfect chewy texture.

Step 10: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes. This resting period allows them to firm up slightly. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, making space for the next delicious batch!

Expert Tips for Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill for 30 minutes prevents excessive spreading in the oven, ensuring cookies retain that delightful chewy texture.
Measure Accurately: Always use the correct measuring tools for flour and sugars. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies, while too little will result in a pancake-like texture.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Check the freshness of your baking soda; stale leavening agents may cause your cookies not to rise properly or lose their softness.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; they should remain soft in the center. This creates that perfect chewy texture associated with Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies.
Store Properly: To maintain freshness, place a slice of bread in the cookie storage container. It will keep your cookies soft and enjoyable for days.

Make Ahead Options

These Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts who want to bring festive flair to their gatherings! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe until the chilling step, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. For optimal freshness, avoid adding crushed candy canes until you're ready to bake. When you're ready to bake, preheat your oven, fold in the peppermint, and proceed as directed, enjoying delicious cookies that are just as soft and chewy as if they were made fresh. This makes it a breeze to whip up a holiday treat without the last-minute rush!

Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies Variations

Feel free to mix and match these delightful variations to create your own spin on classic peppermint sugar cookies!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with margarine or vegan butter to enjoy these festive cookies without dairy.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. They’ll still be soft and chewy, perfectly festive for all!
Chocolate Delight: Fold in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a rich, sweet contrast to the peppermint flavor. Chocolate and peppermint are a match made in heaven!
Citrus Twist: Replace crushed peppermints with orange or lemon zest for a bright, refreshing twist that captures the essence of winter.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the cookie dough for an unexpected warmth that pairs beautifully with the minty flavor.
Nutty Variation: Fold in chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for delightful texture and a lovely nutty flavor that complements the sweetness.
Frosting Option: After baking, drizzle with a simple icing made of powdered sugar and milk for added sweetness and a beautiful finish.

Feeling inspired? These variations can help you create a personalized cookie that suits your festive mood! And if you’re looking for more wonderful cookie ideas, don’t miss our Pineapple Cookies New and Oatmeal Cookies Chewy. Happy baking!

What to Serve with Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Nothing says festive more than a beautifully crafted spread to accompany these delightful chewy peppermint sugar cookies!

Hot Cocoa: Nothing warms the heart quite like a steaming cup of creamy hot cocoa; the richness complements the minty notes of the cookies splendidly.
Peppermint Bark: Pair your cookies with this effortless treat for an extra dose of peppermint joy; the chocolatey crunch balances the sweetness beautifully.
Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices of chai create a cozy atmosphere, enhancing the minty flavor of the cookies for a delightful pairing.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream provides a rich contrast to the crispy exterior of the cookies—simply delightful!
Cream Cheese Frosting: A generous dip in slightly tangy cream cheese frosting elevates the sweetness and pairs perfectly with the peppermint flavor.
Eggnog: Why not have a little holiday cheer in a glass? Rich and creamy eggnog complements the texture of the cookies with each delightful sip.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds a refreshing twist, cleansing the palate between bites of these scrumptious cookies while celebrating seasonal fruits.
Warm Milk: For a nostalgic touch, serve with warm milk; it’s comforting and enhances the overall cozy vibe of your holiday cookie experience!

How to Store and Freeze Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Fridge: Store your Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies in an airtight container for up to 4 days, keeping them fresh and soft.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap cookies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: For a warm treat, reheat cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until just warmed through.

Tips for Maintaining Softness: To keep cookies tender, include a slice of bread in the container with your Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies, preventing them from drying out.

Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting peppermint candy canes, look for ones that are vibrant in color and free from any dark spots or visible damage. For the butter, use high-quality unsalted butter that is at room temperature for easy creaminess. Make sure your egg is fresh, as it binds the ingredients together.

What is the best way to store Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies?
You’ll want to keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 4 days. For added softness, place a slice of bread in the container; it helps maintain moisture and prevents them from becoming hard over time!

Can I freeze Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag to avoid freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature. For a warm treat, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

What if my cookie dough is too sticky or crumbly?
If you find your dough is too sticky, this can often be solved by chilling it longer or adding a tad more flour—about 1 tablespoon at a time until just right. On the flip side, if it’s crumbly, try adding a little more softened butter or a splash of milk to bring the dough together. Just make sure not to overmix—gentleness is key!

Are there any dietary considerations for Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies?
Yes! For those with allergies, you'll want to keep an eye on each ingredient, particularly with regards to gluten, dairy, and eggs. You can substitute gluten-free flour for a similar texture and use margarine or vegan butter for a dairy-free option. If you're vegan, a flax egg is a great alternative for traditional eggs.