Name: Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 71 min
Ingredients: 2.75 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can be substituted with gluten-free flour.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Ensure freshness for best rise.); 0.5 teaspoon Sea Salt (Kosher salt is a good substitute.); 0.75 cups Unsalted Butter (Can use margarine or vegan butter.); 1 cup Granulated White Sugar (Brown sugar can deepen flavor.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Almond extract can be a nice twist.); 1 large Egg (Replace with a flax egg for vegan.); 0.5 cups Crushed Peppermint/Candy Canes (Change it up with chocolate mint candies.); 0.5 cups Granulated Sugar (for rolling) (Essential for a crunchy finish.)

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As I stood by the kitchen counter, the aroma of melting butter and sweet sugar welcomed the holiday spirit into my home. There’s nothing quite like the anticipation of making Soft and Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies, especially as they invite a touch of nostalgia and cheer to any gathering. This simple recipe promises to yield cookies that are not only delightfully soft but also a fun and festive treat that everyone can enjoy. With crushed candy canes adding a refreshing minty twist, these cookies are perfect for holiday platters and guaranteed crowd-pleasers. Plus, they’re a breeze to whip up, leaving you with more time to savor the season. Who could resist the allure of homemade cookies filled with heartwarming memories? Let’s dive into what makes these peppermint perfection irresistible!

Why are these cookies so irresistible?

Festive Flavors: The combination of peppermint and vanilla creates an inviting, merry aroma that fills your home during the holidays.

Simple Preparation: Even beginners will shine in the kitchen with this easy recipe, making it perfect for anyone looking to bake without stress.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering, these cookies are perfect for holiday parties or cozy family nights.

Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips or different mint flavors to satisfy various palates – these cookies are primed for creativity!

Chewy Delight: With a gooey center and a crispy exterior, each bite is a delightful experience that reminds you of all the fun of holiday baking.

Make your holiday season even sweeter with these Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies that everyone will love!

Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies Ingredients

For the Base

All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; can be swapped with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent; ensure freshness for the best rise.
Sea Salt – Balances the sweetness; kosher salt works well as a substitute.
Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; margarine or vegan butter can be used for a dairy-free option.
Granulated White Sugar – Contributes sweetness; try using brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; almond extract can offer a delightful twist.
Large Egg – Serves as a binding agent; for a vegan option, replace with a flax egg.

For the Peppermint Twist

Crushed Peppermint/Candy Canes – Adds that essential flavor and texture; for a fun variation, use chocolate mint candies.
Granulated Sugar (for rolling) – Coats the cookies for that signature crunchy exterior; crucial for the delightful finish.

These Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies are not only a festive treat but also the perfect way to spread joy during the holiday season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of sea salt until well combined. This mixture provides the structure for your Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies. Set it aside as you move on to the wet ingredients, ensuring a seamless ingredient incorporation later on.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Using an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated white sugar on high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that tender texture in your cookies and infusing them with delicious sweetness.

Step 3: Mix in the Egg and Vanilla
Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing on medium speed until fully incorporated and smooth. Take a moment to savor the sweet aroma as it blends together. This rich batter will form the tasty base for your Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies, ensuring each cookie is flavorful and moist.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet batter, mixing on low speed until just combined and no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to be soft and a little sticky. This is also the time to fold in ½ cup of crushed peppermint or candy canes, adding delightful texture and that signature holiday flavor.

Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling is an essential step for Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies, allowing the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up, preventing excessive spreading during baking.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will ensure that your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan, providing a perfect golden edge and a soft center once they’re done.

Step 7: Scoop and Roll the Dough
Once chilled, use a tablespoon-sized scoop to portion out the dough and roll each piece into a ball. Then, roll the dough balls in granulated sugar for that classic crunchy exterior. Place them on the lined baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading while baking.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers still look soft. Keep an eye on them; they should be lightly golden around the edges while remaining a delightful light color in the center. The anticipation builds as the aroma fills your kitchen!

Step 9: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 10 minutes. This resting time will help them firm up slightly. Afterward, transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely, allowing them to reach that perfect chewy texture that makes your Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies so irresistible.

Storage Tips for Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain their delightful softness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag to prevent sticking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the cookies at room temperature or warm them briefly in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their chewy texture.
Chocolate Peppermint Mix: If you’ve added chocolate chips or variations, ensure they are fully cooled before storage to keep your Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies just right!

What to Serve with Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies

The holiday season calls for delightful pairings that elevate the joy of indulgence.

Hot Cocoa: The rich chocolate flavor perfectly complements the minty sweetness, creating a cozy warmth that’s ideal for chilly evenings.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla adds a luscious contrast, balancing the cookies’ chewy texture with a cool creaminess.
Peppermint Tea: This aromatic beverage enhances the peppermint flavor, making it a refreshing accompaniment that resonates with the theme.
Fruit Compote: A tart berry compote pairs beautifully, cutting through the sweetness while offering a refreshing burst of flavor.
Cheese Platter: A mild cheese, such as brie or goat cheese, brings a creamy element that adds elegance and balance to your dessert spread.
Spiced Eggnog: The warm spices in eggnog create a festive touch while harmonizing with the peppermint, perfect for holiday gatherings.

These pairings not only enhance the flavors of your Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies but also invite a joyous atmosphere to any holiday celebration.

Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies Variations

Feel free to play around with these delightful cookie variations to bring your own twist to this classic treat!

Chocolate Chip: Add up to ½ cup of dark or white chocolate chips for a rich, sweet contrast to the peppermint flavor.
Let the chocolate melt slightly in the warm cookies for an indulgent experience that feels like a warm hug on a winter’s day.
Mint Extract Boost: Swap out vanilla extract for peppermint extract to intensify that minty flavor.
A little goes a long way, so start with a half teaspoon and adjust according to your personal taste for an invigorating holiday burst!
Sugar Substitution: Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
This simple swap will not only change the sweetness level but will also lend a richer color to your cookies, making them even more tempting!
Vegan Twist: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan-friendly version.
The result is still a deliciously chewy cookie, and it allows everyone to indulge in holiday cheer!
Salted Pretzel Crumble: Mix in crushed pretzels for a sweet and salty crunch.
This adds a delightful surprise in each bite, combining flavors that contrast beautifully with the sweet peppermint.
Almond Extract: Replace vanilla with almond extract for a unique twist.
The nutty warmth pairs beautifully with peppermint, giving these cookies a lovely, unexpected depth of flavor that will impress your holiday guests.
Colorful Sprinkles: Add festive sprinkles to the dough for color and fun, especially for holiday parties.
They not only brighten the cookies but also add a whimsical touch that invites everyone to reach out for more!
Caramel Bits: Incorporate caramel bits for a gooey surprise.
As they melt in the oven, they create a luscious center that contrasts with the crunchy exterior, turning your cookies into a showstopper treat.

Ready to get baking? If you still crave sweetness after these peppermint delights, check out my Cinnamon Sugar Air for another irresistible treat or maybe try making some Chocolate Chip Cookies to diversify your holiday cookie platter!

Expert Tips for Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Chill the Dough: Always chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. This prevents the cookies from spreading too much and ensures a chewy texture.
Proper Cooling: Let the cookies cool completely before storing them. This helps maintain their delightful texture and prevents them from becoming soggy.
Storage Technique: Keep your Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies fresh by placing a slice of bread in the container with them. The bread helps keep them soft and chewy.
Measure Flour Accurately: Avoid the mistake of packing flour into your measuring cup; use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement, ensuring the right texture.
Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to add up to ½ cup of chocolate chips or different flavored extracts to customize your cookies while still enjoying the peppermint flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies are perfect for those busy days when you need to maximize your time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by chilling it in the refrigerator after mixing. To keep the flavors fresh and prevent drying out, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap. Alternatively, you can also scoop and roll the cookie balls in granulated sugar, then freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough on a lined baking sheet and bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, soft cookies straight from the oven with minimal effort!

Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right peppermint for my cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing crushed peppermint or candy canes, look for fresh, brightly colored options without dark spots or signs of moisture. The brighter the peppermint, the more vibrant the flavor will be in your cookies!

What is the best way to store Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies?
You can store these delightful cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, freeze the cookies by placing them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months while still maintaining their chewy goodness!

Can I freeze Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies? How do I do it?
Certainly! To freeze your cookies, first allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, place them in a single layer inside a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper if necessary. Make sure to press out excess air before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread too much, it often means that the dough wasn’t chilled long enough or possibly that too much flour was mixed in. Always ensure that the dough is chilled for at least 30 minutes before baking, and measure your flour accurately by spooning and leveling it in the measuring cup to keep the texture just right.

Are Chewy Peppermint Sugar Cookies suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! For a gluten-free version, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend. You can also make them dairy-free by using margarine or vegan butter instead of unsalted butter, and replace the egg with a flax egg made from 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water. Just be sure to adjust any additional flavors to maintain the delicious peppermint essence!