As the festive season approaches, nothing quite captures the spirit like the invigorating aroma and delightful taste of homemade cookies. Among the myriad of holiday treats, our recipe for wonderfully soft and chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies stands out. Each bite delivers a balanced burst of refreshing peppermint, complemented by a luxurious, velvety peppermint-flavored cream cheese frosting. Generously adorned with vibrant crushed peppermint candy, these cookies are more than just a treat; they’re an experience, defining the ultimate holiday indulgence and making them the perfect Christmas cookie for sharing, gifting, or simply savoring.

Irresistible Peppermint Sugar Cookies: Your Holiday Baking Essential

These aren’t just any cookies; they are the quintessential holiday delight, meticulously crafted to be soft, incredibly chewy, and bursting with delightful peppermint flavor. Every element of these cookies is infused with the cool, minty essence that defines the festive season. From the dough, subtly studded with crushed peppermint, to the rich, creamy frosting that blankets each cookie, and finally, the sparkling crown of additional crushed candy, they are a true celebration for peppermint enthusiasts.

What sets these Peppermint Sugar Cookies apart is their perfectly balanced flavor profile. Despite the multi-layered peppermint infusion, the taste is never overpowering, instead offering a refreshing zing that perfectly complements the sweetness. The addition of a luscious cream cheese frosting is a game-changer, adding not just sweetness but also a tangy depth and an irresistible creaminess that elevates the entire experience. It’s this harmonious blend that makes them truly exceptional.

The texture of these cookies is an adventure in itself. You’ll discover an ultra-chewy interior that melts in your mouth, contrasted beautifully with delicately crisp edges. This textural interplay, combined with the vibrant peppermint flavor, makes each bite a memorable one. They’re designed for maximum enjoyment, providing a comforting yet exciting treat that embodies the joy and warmth of the holidays.

Delving into the World of Peppermint: Choosing Your Minty Magic

The secret to truly outstanding Peppermint Sugar Cookies lies in understanding and utilizing peppermint correctly. Here’s everything you need to know to ensure your cookies have that perfect holiday zing:

• Crushed Peppermint Toppings: For that iconic festive look and delightful crunch, Peppermint Crunch Sprinkles® or Candy Cane Crunch® are excellent choices. These readily available options provide consistent texture and flavor.
• DIY Crushed Peppermint: If pre-crushed peppermint isn’t available, don’t fret! You can easily make your own. Simply gather some candy canes or individually wrapped peppermint candies. A mini food processor or a sturdy blender will make quick work of crushing them into perfect little shards. Aim for varying sizes, from fine dust to small bits, to add complexity to each bite.

Beyond the crunchy topping, peppermint extract is crucial for infusing flavor directly into both the cookie dough and the frosting. It’s vital to use pure peppermint extract, not spearmint or “mint” extract, as the latter can impart an unwanted, toothpaste-like flavor. The intensity of peppermint extract can vary significantly between brands. Always start with the recommended amount, then taste and adjust as needed, adding small increments until you achieve your desired level of minty freshness. For this recipe, we recommend McCormick’s® Peppermint Extract for its reliable and robust flavor.

Mastering Peppermint Sugar Cookies: Expert Tips for Bakery-Quality Results

Achieving the perfect Peppermint Sugar Cookie texture and flavor is simpler than you think with these expert tips:

• The Magic of Melted Butter: For cookies that are wonderfully chewy throughout, always use melted butter that has been cooled to room temperature. If the butter is too warm when mixed with sugar, it can lead to a greasy dough and cookies that spread too much, becoming thin and crispy rather than thick and soft. The cooled melted butter ensures the right fat distribution for that desired chewiness.
• Precise Flour Measurement: Accurate flour measurement is key to cookie success. Avoid scooping flour directly from the bag with your measuring cup, as this compacts it, leading to too much flour and dense, heavy cookies. Instead, spoon the flour into your measuring cup until it’s overflowing, then use the back of a straight-edged knife or similar tool to level it off. This “spoon and level” method ensures you get the exact amount needed for a light, tender crumb.
• Chilling the Dough is Crucial: Don’t skip the chilling step! Refrigerating the dough for at least an hour, or even up to 8 hours, does more than just prevent the cookies from spreading excessively in the oven. It allows the butter to re-solidify, creating a more stable dough. More importantly, it gives the flavors (especially the peppermint and vanilla) time to meld and deepen, resulting in a richer, more complex taste in the final cookie.
• Shaping for Perfection: When rolling your cookie dough, aim for tall, narrow balls rather than perfectly round spheres. This unique shaping technique helps create cookies with a thick, satisfyingly chewy center, while still allowing the edges to bake up with a delightful crispness. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference in texture.
• The “Edge Press” Technique: For that coveted crisp-edge, chewy-center cookie, employ this simple trick as soon as the cookies come out of the oven. While they’re still hot and pliable on the baking sheet, gently press the edges inward with the back of a spoon or a metal spatula. This slightly compresses the edges, promoting crispness, while preserving the soft, moist interior.

Crafting Your Peppermint Sugar Cookies: A Simple Guide

Creating these delightful Peppermint Sugar Cookies is a straightforward and enjoyable process. Follow these easy steps to bring festive cheer to your kitchen:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, begin by combining all the wet ingredients – this typically includes your cooled melted butter, sugars, eggs, vanilla, and peppermint extract. Once thoroughly mixed, gently add the dry ingredients on top, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
2. Shape and Chill: Roll the dough into uniform balls (approximately 2 tablespoons each), then coat them generously in your optional sugar mixture for an extra crunch and sparkle. Place these dough balls on a baking sheet, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chilling time is essential for optimal texture and flavor development.
3. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Arrange the chilled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring ample space between each cookie as they will spread. Bake for 9-14 minutes, keeping a close eye on them. The key is to slightly underbake them to maintain that soft, chewy center. Once removed from the oven, use the “edge press” tip mentioned above for perfect results. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Whip Up the Frosting: While your cookies are baking and cooling, prepare the luscious peppermint cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Incorporate vanilla, peppermint extract, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is light, fluffy, and perfectly smooth.
5. Frost and Adorn: Once the cookies are completely cooled, generously spread the peppermint cream cheese frosting over each one. Finish by sprinkling them with an abundance of crushed peppermint candy for a beautiful presentation and an extra burst of minty crunch. Now, they are ready to be enjoyed!

Storage Solutions for Your Holiday Treats

To keep your Peppermint Sugar Cookies fresh and delicious, proper storage is essential. Here are some guidelines:

For long-term storage, it’s highly recommended to freeze the cookie dough, not the baked cookies! This ensures a fresh-baked taste whenever a craving strikes. Simply roll the dough into balls as instructed, place them on a tray, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a sealed, airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time until the edges are lightly browned and the centers remain soft.

As for the frosting, it’s always best to make it fresh. Cream cheese frosting does not freeze well; its texture can become grainy and separate upon thawing. However, you can make the frosting a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature and give it a quick whip before frosting your freshly baked cookies.

Once frosted, store any leftover cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and prevent the frosting from melting or becoming sticky. They are best enjoyed within 2–3 days for optimal taste and texture.

Explore More Delightful Cookie Recipes for Every Occasion

If you’ve fallen in love with these Peppermint Sugar Cookies, you’re in for a treat! Our collection of cookie recipes offers a wide array of flavors and textures, perfect for any craving or celebration. Dive into these other delectable options:

• Classic Comfort: Craving something warm and familiar? Try our Oatmeal Cookies for a wholesome, chewy delight, or elevate them with chocolate chips in our Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies.
• Fruity & Elegant: For a sophisticated touch, our Thumbprint Cookies with a sweet raspberry jam filling are simply exquisite.
• Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Indulge in the rich, fudgy goodness of Peppermint Bark Cookies, made even easier with a brownie mix!
• Nostalgic Bites: Rediscover childhood favorites with our Frosted Honey Graham Cookies, featuring a unique graham cracker cookie base.
• No-Bake Bliss: For quick and easy gratification, our Avalanche Cookies require absolutely no baking, perfect for last-minute treats!

Soft Peppermint Sugar Cookies

By

Chelsea Lords

Soft, chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies topped with creamy peppermint frosting and crushed candy canes are the ultimate festive treat!

Prep Time:

30 minutes

Cook Time:

11 minutes

Chilling Time:

1 hour

Total Time:

1 hour
41 minutes

Servings:

26 cookies

Equipment

• Sheet pan (15″ x 10″)
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Cooling rack

Ingredients

Cookies

• 16 tablespoons unsalted butter (1 cup, melted and cooled)
• 1-1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 large egg yolk (discard or save the white for another use)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1/2 cup peppermint crunch sprinkles (see note 1, plus additional crushed peppermint for topping cookies if desired)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour (see note 2)
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Optional Sugar Coating

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup white sparkling sugar (or additional granulated sugar)

Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting

• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese (full-fat, softened to room temperature)
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened to room temperature)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla bean paste (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 3-1/2 cups powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Optional Sugar Coating: In a small bowl, stir together the granulated sugar and white sparkling sugar. This coating (while optional) provides a lovely crunchy exterior and an extra layer of sweetness to the finished cookies.
2. Prepare Wet Ingredients: Place the melted butter in a large mixing bowl and allow it to cool completely to room temperature. This cooling step is crucial; if the butter is too warm when you add the sugar, it will melt the sugar crystals, leading to greasy cookies. Once cooled, add the granulated sugar and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is smooth and thoroughly incorporated. Next, beat in the whole egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until the mixture is uniform and smooth.
3. Combine Wet and Dry: Add the peppermint crunch sprinkles, all-purpose flour, salt, cornstarch, baking powder, and baking soda directly to the wet ingredients in the bowl. Mix on low speed or by hand until the dry ingredients are just combined with the wet, forming a cohesive dough. Be very careful not to overmix the dough, as this can develop the gluten too much, resulting in tough cookies.
4. Roll and Chill: Scoop out approximately 2 tablespoons of dough for each cookie. For best results, roll these portions into tall, narrow balls. If you have a kitchen scale, aim for each dough ball to be around 43 grams for consistent sizing. Roll each dough ball generously in the prepared granulated/white sparkling sugar mixture until fully coated. Place the sugared dough balls on a plate or baking sheet, cover, and refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour, and up to 8 hours. Chilling helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor.
5. Bake the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Arrange the chilled dough balls on a parchment paper-lined or silicone baking mat-lined sheet pan, ensuring they are spread far apart, as these cookies will spread a fair amount during baking. (It’s often best to bake only 6 cookies at a time to prevent overcrowding.) Bake for 9–14 minutes. Watch them carefully to avoid overbaking; slightly underbaked sugar cookies are deliciously soft and chewy! I typically remove mine from the oven between 11–12 minutes. Immediately upon removal, use the back of a spoon or metal spatula to gently press the edges of each cookie towards the center. This technique helps create those desirable crisp edges and a chewier middle. Let the cookies stand on the hot sheet pan for 2 minutes before carefully transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
6. Prepare Frosting: While the cookies are baking and cooling, prepare the rich peppermint cream cheese frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and softened unsalted butter until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps. Add the vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste), peppermint extract, and salt, beating to combine. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until all is incorporated. Increase the speed and beat until the frosting is incredibly smooth, light, and fluffy. It may seem thick at first, but keep beating, and it will come together beautifully.
7. Frost and Enjoy: Once your delicious cookies are completely cooled (this is important to prevent the frosting from melting), generously frost each one with the creamy peppermint cream cheese frosting. Finish by sprinkling a desired amount of additional crushed peppermint candy over the top for an extra festive touch and delightful crunch. Store any leftover frosted cookies in an airtight container in the fridge. For the best flavor and texture, these cookies are best enjoyed within 2–3 days.

Recipe Notes

Note 1: Crushed Peppermint Options: For the crushed peppermint in the dough and on top, you can use commercially available Peppermint Crunch Sprinkles® or Candy Cane Crunch® for convenience. If these aren’t available, simply crush regular candy canes or hard peppermint candies yourself. A food processor or blender can quickly turn them into the perfect consistency.

Note 2: Accurate Flour Measurement: Measuring flour correctly is vital for the right cookie texture. Never pack flour into your measuring cup by scooping directly from the bag, as this can add significantly more flour than intended, leading to dense, dry cookies. Instead, use the “spoon and level” method: spoon flour into your dry measuring cup until it’s overfilled, then use the straight edge of a knife or spatula to level off the excess at the top. For a visual guide, you can refer to this resource.

Storage Tips: Keep any leftover frosted cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They maintain their best quality and texture when enjoyed within 2–3 days of baking.

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Calories: 398 kcal | Carbohydrates: 71g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 43mg | Sodium: 126mg | Potassium: 34mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 50g | Vitamin A: 360IU | Calcium: 9mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.