Peppermint Candy Sugar Cookies

Baking cookies is a joyful activity that brings happiness to many. One delightful treat that stands out during the holiday season is Peppermint Candy Sugar Cookies. These cookies are sweet, soft, and have a lovely minty flavor. They are perfect for sharing during festive gatherings or simply enjoying at home. The combination of sugar and peppermint creates a lovely blend that is both refreshing and satisfying. Making these cookies can be an enjoyable family activity, with everyone pitching in to help decorate and package them. Let’s explore how to make these delightful cookies step by step!

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

There are many reasons to love Peppermint Candy Sugar Cookies. First, they are incredibly tasty. The sugar cookies are soft, and their sweetness is perfectly matched by the refreshing taste of peppermint. Second, they look beautiful! The colorful icing can make your cookies a feast for the eyes. You can customize the colors to match any occasion, making them fun for parties. Third, this recipe is simple. Even beginners can follow the steps and create something special. Lastly, baking cookies can be a great way to bond with family or friends, making shared memories as you laugh and decorate together.

HOW TO MAKE Peppermint Candy Sugar Cookies

Making these cookies is straightforward and fun. Follow these easy steps and you’ll have delicious Peppermint Candy Sugar Cookies ready to enjoy.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make these cookies, you will need some basic kitchen tools:

• Stand mixer with a paddle attachment
• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheets
• Wire rack
• Squeeze bottles for icing
• Toothpicks for detail work

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3 cups unbleached, all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 3/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 cup meringue powder
• 1 scant cup (almost full) water
• 2 pounds (32 ounces) powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons light corn syrup
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (if desired)
• Super white gel icing color
• Pink, red or green icing color
• Small squeeze bottles
• Toothpicks
• 3X4 treat bags
• Twine or twist ties

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

FOR THE COOKIES:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Set this mixture aside for later.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer, cream the cold butter and sugar together using the paddle attachment. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg and extracts (vanilla and almond) to the mixture. Beat well until everything is combined.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture, one cup at a time. Mix on low speed until it just comes together. Stop to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
6. After adding all the flour, the dough will look thick and crumbly.
7. On a surface dusted with flour, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out circles from the dough.
8. Place the cookie shapes on the prepared baking sheets. To keep the cookies from spreading too much, place them in the freezer for about 10 minutes.
9. Bake the cookies for 9-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Once done, take them out of the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.

FOR THE ICING:

1. When the cookies are cool, mix the royal icing using meringue powder, peppermint extract (if desired), and water. Whip this until it’s foamy.
2. Sift in the powdered sugar and add corn syrup. Mix everything well until it’s fully combined.
3. Beat the mixture on medium-high speed until it becomes glossy and forms stiff peaks.
4. Fill the squeeze bottles with the icing. Use this icing to pipe and outline your cookies. You may use toothpicks for detailed designs or to smooth out the icing.
5. Allow the cookies to dry completely for 24 hours for the icing to set properly.

HOW TO SERVE Peppermint Candy Sugar Cookies

Serving Peppermint Candy Sugar Cookies can be a delightful experience. You can place them on a lovely tray, arrange them nicely, and serve them at gatherings. Individual balloons tied with twine or twist ties in treat bags give them a special touch. These cookies are tasty with a cup of hot cocoa or warm milk, making them perfect for cozy nights. They also make great gifts during the holiday season.

STORAGE & FREEZING : Peppermint Candy Sugar Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last about a week this way. You can also freeze the cookies for later enjoyment. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag after separating them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will help maintain their shape and taste. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

There are many fun ways to serve Peppermint Candy Sugar Cookies. You can enjoy them plain, or decorate them with colorful icing and sprinkles. Arrange them on festive plates with other holiday treats for a beautiful presentation. Pair them with drinks like hot chocolate, tea, or coffee for a cozy treat. You can also create gift baskets with these cookies along with other homemade goodies for family and friends.

VARIATIONS

Making Peppermint Candy Sugar Cookies opens up a world of creative variations. You can try adding different extracts like chocolate or coffee instead of peppermint for a unique flavor. You can also incorporate different colors of icing and use various designs, such as holiday shapes or sprinkle patterns. Additionally, adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts can give a fun twist to the traditional sugar cookie.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze the dough for up to three months.

2. How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden, but the centers may look soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

3. What can I use instead of meringue powder?
If you don’t have meringue powder, you can use egg whites instead, but it may require extra care while whipping.

4. Can I customize the icing colors?
Absolutely! You can use any color gel icing to customize your cookies. This is a great way to make them suitable for seasonal events or personal tastes.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Peppermint Candy Sugar Cookies

To make the baking process smoother, you can prepare some parts ahead of time. Mix the dry ingredients (flour and baking powder) early and store them in an airtight container. Prepare the dough up to three days in advance. If you’re icing the cookies, you can make the royal icing a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Ensure you cover it well to prevent it from drying out. This way, when you’re ready to bake, you have everything ready, making the process quick and enjoyable!

Print