The festive season is upon us, and what better way to get into the holiday spirit than baking some delicious peppermint cookies? The classic combination of peppermint and chocolate is a timeless favorite, but this year we’re shaking things up with 18 unique and mouth-watering peppermint cookie recipes.
From soft-baked sugar cookies to crinkly mocha treats, and even vegan and gluten-free options, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for some inspiration for your holiday cookie exchange, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of peppermint cookies, sharing our favorite recipes and tips to make your baking experience merry and bright.
Stay tuned for some seriously festive treats that are sure to impress your friends and family!
Classic Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies
A refreshing twist on a classic cookie recipe, these peppermint chocolate chip cookies are perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by peppermint extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Double Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these decadent cookies that combine the richness of chocolate and peppermint.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (optional)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in chocolate chips and crushed candy canes (if using).
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set. Let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Peppermint Mocha Sandwich Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are infused with the invigorating flavors of peppermint and mocha, making them perfect for a holiday party or a special treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tsp peppermint extract
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Soft-Baked Peppermint Sugar Cookies
Brighten up your holiday season with these chewy and delicious peppermint sugar cookies, perfectly soft-baked to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
– 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
4. Beat in peppermint extract. Gradually mix in flour mixture until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peppermint White Chocolate Macadamia Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the sweetness of white chocolate with the crunch of macadamias and the invigorating zing of peppermint. Perfect for a holiday party or a special treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup chopped macadamia nuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then fold in white chocolate chips and macadamia nuts.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Let cool on wire rack for 5 minutes before transferring to a plate.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegan Peppermint Thumbprint Cookies
A refreshing twist on classic thumbprint cookies, these vegan treats combine the brightness of peppermint with the sweetness of chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vegan butter (softened), such as Earth Balance
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 egg replacement (such as Ener-G Egg Replacer or flax eggs)
– 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the vegan butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg replacement, peppermint extract, and mix until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Place cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Tips:
– For an extra chocolatey kick, drizzle with melted vegan chocolate after baking.
– Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Gluten-Free Peppermint Snowball Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with the refreshing flavor of peppermint and coated in a sweet powdered sugar mixture, making them a perfect treat for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and peppermint extract; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
5. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Allow cookies to cool completely before coating in powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Peppermint Oreo Stuffed Cookies
These soft-baked cookies are filled with the perfect combination of crunchy Oreos and cooling peppermint, making them a delightful treat for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 12-15 Oreos, crushed
– Colored sprinkles or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Stir in crushed Oreos.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peppermint Shortbread Cookies with Dark Chocolate Drizzle
These refreshing cookies combine the sweetness of shortbread with the invigorating flavor of peppermint, finished with a rich dark chocolate drizzle. Perfect for a festive treat or holiday gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon peppermint extract
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add softened butter and peppermint extract; mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
4. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Allow cookies to cool completely before drizzling with melted dark chocolate.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Tips:
For an extra touch, dust cookies with confectioners’ sugar before serving. Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Peppermint Kiss Cookies with Hershey’s Hugs
Get ready to deck the halls with these festive Peppermint Kiss Cookies featuring Hershey’s Hugs! These chewy cookies are infused with peppermint flavor and topped with a Hershey’s Hug for an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
– Hershey’s Hugs, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Stir in crushed Hershey’s Hugs.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chewy Peppermint Brownie Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the richness of brownies with the refreshing zing of peppermint, making them a unique and tasty addition to any cookie platter or gift basket.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 and 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup chopped peppermint candies or crushed candy canes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in chocolate chips and crushed peppermint candies (if using).
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly underbaked.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peppermint Candy Cane Swirl Cookies
Brighten up your holiday season with these festive and delicious cookies, featuring a swirl of peppermint candy cane goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– Candy canes, crushed (about 1/4 cup)
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decoration (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Fold in crushed candy canes.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Peppermint Buttercream Frosted Cookies
Beat the heat with these refreshing cookies, topped with a cool peppermint buttercream frosting!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
– Crushed candy canes or chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. To make frosting, beat powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of buttercream (or more as needed) until smooth. Add crushed candy canes or chopped pecans if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peppermint Snickerdoodle Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies combine the classic flavors of snickerdoodles with the invigorating taste of peppermint, perfect for holiday treats or any time you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups white granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 tablespoons crushed candy canes (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. If using crushed candy canes, fold them into the dough.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peppermint Red Velvet Cookies
Experience the thrill of a classic red velvet cookie with the invigorating twist of peppermint!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint chips for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and red food coloring until well combined.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Stir in peppermint extract, egg, baking powder, and salt.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Peppermint Marshmallow Stuffed Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with peppermint flavor and stuffed with a surprise marshmallow center. Perfect for holiday cookie exchanges or as a special treat for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 cup marshmallows
– Decorative sprinkles or crushed candy canes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Place a marshmallow in the center of each cookie. Fold the dough over the marshmallow to form a ball.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Peppermint Espresso Cookies with White Chocolate Chips
These cookies combine the invigorating flavors of peppermint and espresso with the creamy sweetness of white chocolate chips, making them a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1/2 cup espresso powder (or strong brewed coffee)
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, peppermint extract, and espresso powder.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in white chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peppermint Coconut Macaroons
Beat the heat with these refreshing Peppermint Coconut Macaroons, perfect for a sweet treat or snack. These chewy cookies combine the brightness of peppermint with the richness of coconut and are surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 large egg white
– 1 tablespoon aquafaba (liquid from canned chickpeas)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, confectioners’ sugar, granulated sugar, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk egg white and aquafaba until frothy. Add peppermint extract; whisk until combined.
4. Fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Let cool completely before serving. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 18 delicious peppermint cookie recipes! From classic favorites like Classic Peppermint Chocolate Chip Cookies to creative twists like Gluten-Free Peppermint Snowball Cookies, there’s something for everyone. Try Double Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies for a rich and indulgent treat or Soft-Baked Peppermint Sugar Cookies for a soft and chewy delight. With flavors ranging from peppermint mocha to coconut macaroons, you’re sure to find the perfect recipe to spread holiday cheer.
