Peppermint Sugar Cookies

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Soft, buttery, and bursting with minty cheer, these Peppermint Sugar Cookies are the ultimate festive treat. They feature a tender sugar cookie base topped with a luscious peppermint buttercream frosting and crushed candy canes for a satisfying crunch. Perfect for holiday cookie trays, classroom parties, or cozy nights by the fire, these cookies bring seasonal magic with every bite.

The pastel pink frosting and sparkling red-and-white candy pieces make them not only delicious but eye-catching too. Whether you’re baking with kids, prepping for a cookie exchange, or just craving something merry and bright, this recipe is a joy to make and even more delightful to share.

What Kind of Peppermint Should I Use?

You can use classic peppermint extract to flavor the frosting and crushed peppermint candies or candy canes for topping. Be sure not to confuse peppermint with spearmint—peppermint has that refreshing holiday zing that works perfectly with sugar cookies.

Ingredients for the Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Unsalted Butter – Provides the rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture essential to a perfect sugar cookie.

Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dough and helps achieve the classic sugar cookie structure.

Egg – Binds everything together and adds tenderness.

Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall sweetness and adds a warm, rounded flavor.

All-Purpose Flour – The backbone of the cookie, giving it the right amount of chew and crisp.

Baking Powder – Ensures the cookies rise slightly and remain soft.

Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.

Powdered Sugar – Used for the frosting to keep it smooth and creamy.

Peppermint Extract – Delivers that cool, refreshing flavor that makes these cookies so memorable.

Crushed Peppermint Candies or Candy Canes – Add crunch, color, and unmistakable holiday charm.

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How To Make the Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. This step creates the creamy base that keeps the cookies tender.

Step 2: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, beating until fully incorporated. This builds the rich flavor foundation of the dough.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the butter mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 4: Roll and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and gently flatten. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Let them cool completely before frosting.

Step 5: Make the Peppermint Frosting

Beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then mix in peppermint extract and a splash of milk until smooth and spreadable. Tint with pink food coloring if desired.

Step 6: Frost and Decorate

Spread the frosting over the cooled cookies and sprinkle generously with crushed peppermint candies. Let them set before serving.

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Storing and Serving Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Once frosted, these cookies are best stored in an airtight container in a single layer or between sheets of parchment paper. They stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days or can be refrigerated for up to a week. If you’d like to freeze them, freeze the unfrosted cookies and decorate after thawing for best texture.

What to Serve With Peppermint Sugar Cookies?

Hot Chocolate

The rich, creamy chocolate pairs beautifully with the cool bite of peppermint.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Serve cookies alongside a scoop of ice cream for a wintry dessert duo.

Eggnog

Sweet, spiced, and festive, this classic drink enhances the holiday mood.

Spiced Chai Tea

The warming spices balance out the refreshing mint flavors in the cookie.

Peppermint Mocha

A flavor match made in heaven, perfect for holiday coffee breaks.

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re feeling inspired by these peppermint sugar cookies, explore more fun and festive cookie ideas on Savor Queen:

• Chocolate Cherry Cookies Recipe for a sweet-tart combo.
• Salted Caramel Cupcakes if you want a caramel treat with a soft crumb.
• Condensed Milk Snow Cookies for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Cookies if you’re craving fruity and creamy together.
• Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries for a no-bake twist on dessert.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe white chocolate drizzle or a peppermint bark crumble on top? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

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