There’s something magical about biting into a soft sugar cookie kissed with peppermint flavor. It tastes like the holidays, childhood joy, and cozy evenings by the fire all wrapped into one delicious bite. These Peppermint Sugar Cookies are not just festive—they’re dreamy in texture and flavor, and they look as pretty as they taste.

Whether you’re baking a batch for your Christmas cookie box or whipping them up just because, these cookies bring peppermint cheer to any table. A touch of crushed candy cane adds both crunch and color, while the buttery sugar cookie base keeps things soft, chewy, and utterly irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Sugar Cookies Recipe

These cookies strike the perfect balance between sweet and refreshing. You’ll love how easy they are to make, and how crowd-pleasing they are for both peppermint fans and those who normally shy away from strong minty desserts. They stay soft for days and are perfect for gifting or stacking on your holiday dessert tray.

Their bright flavor also pairs beautifully with a warm cup of hot chocolate or coffee. And let’s not forget how beautiful they are—a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies makes them a visual showstopper.

Can I Use Peppermint Extract Instead of Crushed Candy Canes?

Yes, absolutely. You can use peppermint extract in place of or in addition to the crushed candy canes. A little goes a long way, so start with just a half teaspoon and adjust to taste. The extract blends into the dough for a smooth minty flavor, while the crushed candy canes add crunch and festive flair. Using both together creates a layered peppermint experience that really stands out.

Ingredients for the Peppermint Sugar Cookies

To create these soft, festive cookies, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples and a touch of peppermint magic.

Unsalted butter – Gives the cookies their rich, soft base.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens and gives that classic sugar cookie crisp edge.
Egg – Binds everything together and helps with structure.
Vanilla extract – Balances the peppermint with warmth.
Peppermint extract – Brings the signature minty flavor.
All-purpose flour – Forms the body of the dough.
Baking powder – Helps the cookies puff up just enough.
Salt – Enhances flavor.
Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies – Adds crunch and festive flair to every bite.

How To Make the Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step creates air pockets for a soft texture.

Step 2: Add Egg and Extracts

Mix in the egg, followed by the vanilla extract and peppermint extract. Beat until fully combined.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 4: Fold in Crushed Peppermint

Gently fold in the crushed candy canes, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between each. Bake at 350°F for 9 to 11 minutes, just until the edges start to turn golden.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once cooled, they’re ready to enjoy or package up as a gift.

How to Serve and Store Peppermint Sugar Cookies

These cookies are best served slightly warm with melty bits of peppermint inside, but they’re just as good at room temperature. Stack them on a platter for your holiday dessert spread or wrap them in clear bags tied with ribbon for a thoughtful edible gift.

This recipe makes about 24 cookies, perfect for serving a crowd or keeping in your cookie jar for a week. To store, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the baked cookies or unbaked dough balls for up to 2 months.

What to Serve With Peppermint Sugar Cookies?

Hot Cocoa

Pair with a creamy mug of hot cocoa topped with whipped cream or marshmallows for a festive treat.

Coffee or Peppermint Mocha

Let the minty flavor of the cookies echo in your drink with a seasonal peppermint mocha or black coffee.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Crush up cookies and sprinkle over vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert upgrade.

Holiday Cheeseboard

Yes, really! Add them to a sweet section of a cheeseboard with chocolates, fruits, and candied nuts.

Eggnog

Creamy and rich eggnog balances the cool mint of the cookies beautifully.

Chocolate Fondue

Use the cookies for dipping into warm chocolate fondue—they hold up well and add a peppermint crunch.

Warm Apple Cider

A contrasting warm spiced drink can complement the cool peppermint flavor in a surprising way.

Candy Cane Milkshake

Double down on the peppermint by blending these into a milkshake with vanilla ice cream and candy canes.

If you love these Peppermint Sugar Cookies, you’ll probably enjoy these other fun and flavorful treats:

Ooey Gooey Bars for a rich, chewy indulgence.
Cherry-Topped Coconut Macaroons if you like sweet and tropical in one bite.
Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes for a creamy twist on two dessert favorites.
Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies for a nostalgic, hearty treat.
Strawberry Flaky Puff Dreams if you’re craving something fruity and light.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the peppermint or play it subtle? Did you drizzle chocolate on top? I’m always curious how you make these your own.

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