Name: Decadent Frosted Peppermint Cookies for Magical Holidays
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 150 min
Ingredients: 3/4 cup Butter, softened (Use room temperature for easy mixing); 1 1/2 cups Sugar (Coconut sugar can add a deeper flavor); 2 large Eggs (Room temperature blends better); 2 teaspoons Peppermint Extract (Use vanilla extract as an alternative); 2 3/4 cups All-Purpose Flour (Swap for gluten-free flour blend if needed); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor); 1/2 teaspoon Baking Powder (Helps the cookies rise); 2 cups Confectioner’s Sugar (Sweetens and thickens the frosting); 1/2 cup Butter, softened (Beat until pale yellow for best results); 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (Adjust to taste); 1/2 cup Crushed Candy Canes (Provides a festive crunch)

As I set foot in my kitchen on a chilly December afternoon, the scent of peppermint danced through the air, a warm invitation to create something special. That’s the magic that comes with baking Frosted Peppermint Cookies! These homemade delights are not only soft and scrumptious; they bring an irresistible festive twist that elevates any holiday gathering. With a delightful buttercream frosting and a sprinkle of crunchy candy canes, these cookies are a surefire way to spread joy and cheer. What makes them even better? They’re quick to whip up and will impress your friends and family without hours in the kitchen! Are you ready to step into a world of sweet holiday bliss?

Why are Frosted Peppermint Cookies a Must-Bake?

Festive Flavors: The delightful combination of peppermint and creamy buttercream elevates these cookies to a festive treat that everyone will love.

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch in no time, making them perfect for last-minute holiday baking.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Their vibrant colors and unique flavors guarantee they’ll be the star of any gathering—just wait for the smiles as you serve them!

Versatile Options: Feel free to switch up the flavor by adding dark chocolate chips or experimenting with different extracts; you can tailor these cookies to your family’s taste.

Perfect with Drinks: Pair these cookies with hot cocoa or coffee for an unforgettable treat experience—just like I did during my recent baking spree!

For more cookies that delight during the holidays, check out my Chewy Gluten Cookies or Honey Cookies Chewy.

Frosted Peppermint Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies
• Butter (3/4 cup, softened) – Ensures richness and moisture; use room temperature for easy mixing.
• Sugar (1 1/2 cups) – Sweetens and enhances texture; coconut sugar can add a deeper flavor.
• Eggs (2 large) – Binds ingredients and maintains moisture; room temperature eggs blend better.
• Peppermint Extract (2 teaspoons + 1 teaspoon for frosting) – Infuses the cookies with delicious peppermint; vanilla extract can be a great alternative.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 3/4 cups) – Provides structure; swap for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free Frosted Peppermint Cookies.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Brings out all flavors; don’t skip this step!
• Baking Powder (1/2 teaspoon) – Helps the cookies rise perfectly.

For the Buttercream Frosting
• Confectioner’s Sugar (2 cups) – Sweetens and thickens the frosting for a smooth finish.
• Butter (1/2 cup, softened) – Creates a creamy texture; beat until pale yellow for best results.
• Peppermint Extract (1 teaspoon) – Adds a refreshing taste to the frosting; feel free to adjust to your preference.

For the Topping
• Crushed Candy Canes (1/2 cup) – Provides a festive crunch; you can use store-bought or crush your own for control.

Embrace the joy of baking and indulge your loved ones in the sweetness of these delightful Peppermint Cookies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Frosted Peppermint Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. This will help your Frosted Peppermint Cookies retain their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture as they bake.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat together 3/4 cup of softened butter and 1 1/2 cups of sugar using an electric mixer for about 4-5 minutes until creamy and light. Gradually add in 2 large eggs, mixing thoroughly after each addition, followed by 2 teaspoons of peppermint extract to infuse that delightful minty flavor.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Sift together 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder in a separate bowl. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined and a soft dough forms. This is the foundation for your delicious Frosted Peppermint Cookies!

Step 4: Shape Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or heaping tablespoon, portion out the dough and roll each piece into a ball. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, then flatten each one slightly to just over 1/4 inch thick. Ensure they are spaced apart to allow for even baking as they spread.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for about 10 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the pan for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for maintaining their soft texture.

Step 6: Make the Buttercream Frosting
While the cookies cool, prepare the buttercream frosting by beating 1/2 cup of softened butter in a mixing bowl until it becomes pale yellow, which should take at least 5 minutes. Gradually sift in 2 cups of confectioner’s sugar and mix until smooth. Add in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract for that extra festive touch and blend until fully incorporated.

Step 7: Frost the Cookies
Once the cookies are completely cool, generously frost the tops with the whipped buttercream using a spatula or a piping bag. For a delightful finishing touch, sprinkle crushed candy canes over the frosting, allowing your Frosted Peppermint Cookies to shine. Let the frosting set for at least 2 hours before storing, ensuring the perfect festive treat!

Tips for the Best Frosted Peppermint Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter. This avoids lumps and creates a uniform texture in your Frosted Peppermint Cookies.
Chill Before Baking: If your dough seems too soft, consider chilling it for about 30 minutes before shaping. This helps the cookies hold their shape better while baking.
Sprinkle with Care: When topping with crushed candy canes, aim for chunky pieces rather than fine crumbs. This adds a delightful texture and visual appeal to your Frosted Peppermint Cookies.
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake; they should be lightly golden on the edges. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies, losing that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool completely before frosting to prevent the buttercream from melting. This step ensures your Frosted Peppermint Cookies maintain their festive look.

Make Ahead Options

These Frosted Peppermint Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by combining the wet and dry ingredients, then refrigerate it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Additionally, you can bake the cookies and freeze them for up to 3 months before frosting; simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. For the best results, frost the cookies with buttercream and add crushed candy canes just before serving to maintain their delightful texture. This way, you’ll have freshly frosted treats ready to impress your family and friends with minimal last-minute effort!

How to Store and Freeze Frosted Peppermint Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your Frosted Peppermint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Fridge: If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to a week. Make sure they are in a well-sealed container to avoid absorbing any fridge odors.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies without frosting for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before frosting to maintain their delightful texture.

Reheating: If you prefer a warm treat, reheat the cookies gently in a microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving. Enjoy the festive flavors once again!

Frosted Peppermint Cookies Variations

Feel free to explore the delicious possibilities with these delightful variations that can enhance your Frosted Peppermint Cookies!

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities while keeping the cookies soft and tasty.
Chocolate Lovers: Add 1 cup of mini chocolate chips to the dough for a rich, heavenly twist that contrasts beautifully with peppermint.
Nutty Flavor: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with finely ground almond flour for added depth and a delightful nutty aroma.
Higher Peppermint Kick: Increase the peppermint extract to 3 teaspoons for a more intense mint flavor that will invigorate your palate.
Festive Sprinkles: Instead of candy canes, sprinkle with colorful holiday-themed sprinkles to create a fun and cheerful presentation.
Cocoa Variation: Swirl in 1/2 cup of cocoa powder into the dough for a delightful chocolatey version of these festive cookies.
Vegan Alternative: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs to create a vegan-friendly version without sacrificing flavor.
Zesty Twist: Add the zest of 1 orange to the dough for a bright, citrus lift that complements the peppermint beautifully.

And if you’re in the mood for more scrumptious cookies, be sure to check out my Brown Butter Cookies or the delightful Chocolate Oat Cookies for additional mouthwatering options!

What to Serve with Frosted Peppermint Cookies?

The holiday season is the perfect time to create a magical spread that complements the delightful sweetness of these festive cookies.

Creamy Hot Cocoa: A warm and rich hot chocolate provides a velvety balance to the refreshing peppermint flavors, making it a cozy pairing.
Espresso or Coffee: The boldness of coffee can enhance the cookies’ sweetness, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Try a sweetened vanilla latte for a dreamy experience!
Spiced Chai Tea: The warmth and spices of chai blend beautifully with the minty notes, offering a comforting beverage that warms both heart and soul.
Sugar Cookie Bars: For a delightful dessert table, pair these cookies with sugar cookie bars; their simple flavor complements the peppermint without overpowering it.
Cheesecake Bites: Bite-sized cheesecake bites provide a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, making for an irresistible duo!
Peppermint Bark: Keep the peppermint theme alive! This sweet treat has the same festive flavors and presents beautifully alongside your cookies.
Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit adds a bright, refreshing note and cleanses the palate after indulging in the rich sweetness of the cookies.
Chocolate Milkshake: For the ultimate indulgence, a thick, creamy chocolate milkshake pairs fantastically with the light mintiness of Frosted Peppermint Cookies.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream brings a creamy element that melts over the cookies for a decadent dessert experience.

Frosted Peppermint Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my peppermint extract is fresh?
Absolutely! Fresh peppermint extract should have a vibrant, minty aroma. If it smells dull or has lost its scent, it may be past its prime. Always check the expiration date on the bottle as well; using fresh spices enhances the flavor of your Frosted Peppermint Cookies.

How can I store Frosted Peppermint Cookies for maximum freshness?
Store your Frosted Peppermint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-5 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure to keep them covered to prevent them from picking up odors from the fridge.

Can I freeze Frosted Peppermint Cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place your baked and cooled Frosted Peppermint Cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. They will maintain their quality for up to 3 months. Remember to thaw them completely before frosting for the best results!

What can I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If your cookies spread excessively during baking, it typically means your dough was too soft. To prevent this, ensure you’re using room temperature butter and chilling your dough for about 30 minutes before shaping can help maintain their form while baking. It’s all about controlling that temperature!

Are Frosted Peppermint Cookies safe for pets and those with allergies?
Although these cookies are delightful for humans, they should be kept away from pets as ingredients like chocolate and peppermint are toxic to dogs. If you’re concerned about allergies, swap out any problematic ingredients—for example, using gluten-free flour for those with gluten sensitivities. Always check ingredient labels to accommodate any allergies!