There’s something truly magical about baking cookies, especially in the heart of the winter season. As the scent of peppermint wafts through the air, memories of family gatherings and cozy nights spent by the fireplace come rushing back. These peppermint cookies with their delightful frosting not only tickle the taste buds but also warm the soul, reminding us of cherished moments shared in the kitchen.
Why make this recipe? Well, these little delights are more than just cookies; they are love woven into dough. Perfect for holiday treat trays or sweet surprises for neighbors, each bite is a reminder that good things come from the heart—and the kitchen. Plus, who can resist that festive peppermint flavor? It’s like a hug in cookie form!
How to make Peppermint Cookies with Frosting
Ingredients:
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened (for frosting)
- 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar (for frosting)
- 2 tablespoons milk (for frosting)
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (for frosting)
- 2 to 3 drops red food coloring (optional, for frosting)
- Crushed peppermint candies (for garnish)
Directions:
- In a large mixing bowl, take that softened butter and combine it with the confectioners’ sugar. Cream them together until it’s as light and fluffy as a cloud on a summer day.
- Now, stir in the peppermint extract, letting that lovely aroma fill your kitchen.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the creamed butter and sugar mix, blending until it’s all combined—just like family.
- Cover this delightful dough and tuck it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, letting it chill like an eager guest before the party begins.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line up those baking sheets.
- Shape your chilled dough into 1-inch balls, placing them two inches apart on those ungreased sheets, making sure they have room to spread their joy.
- Bake for about 9 to 11 minutes until the bottoms are lightly browned. The smell will be heavenly!
- Carefully transfer those cookies to wire racks and let them cool completely, like a Sunday evening winding down.
- In a small bowl, beat that extra butter until it’s creamy and then gradually mix in the confectioners’ sugar, milk, peppermint extract, and if you fancy, a splash of red food coloring. Mix until it’s as smooth as a sweet Southern drawl.
- Spread that frosting lovingly over your cooled cookies and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies to make them sing with holiday cheer. Allow them a moment to set before they’re diving into.
How to serve Peppermint Cookies with Frosting
These cookies are perfect for sharing at holiday parties, placed lovingly on a festive platter, or gifted to friends wrapped in cheerful tissue. They might even make your afternoon tea a bit more special. Pair them with a cozy cup of hot chocolate or a warm cup of tea for a delightful treat that’s bound to bring smiles.
How to store Peppermint Cookies with Frosting
Store these delightful cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them a little longer—though that’s always a challenge!—you can freeze them without frosting in an airtight container for up to a month. Let them thaw at room temperature and frost when you’re ready to enjoy!
Tips to make Peppermint Cookies with Frosting
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing—cold butter won’t give you that dreamy texture.
- Don’t skip the chilling step; it helps the cookies hold their shape in the oven!
- Feel free to be playful with your frosting—add more or less peppermint extract to suit your taste or use fun sprinkles instead of crushed peppermint candies.
Variations
For those who love the spicy warmth of gingerbread, consider adding a hint of ground ginger or cinnamon to the dough. If you’re feeling adventurous, some chopped nuts or even white chocolate chips could cherry-pick your cookies to the next level.
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While butter gives the cookies their rich flavor, you can use margarine in a pinch. Just remember, the taste may vary slightly.
Can I skip the frosting?
Absolutely! These cookies are delightful on their own, but the frosting adds a festive touch. It all depends on your mood!
Is the peppermint flavor strong?
The peppermint extract has a refreshing taste that permeates the cookies, but you can always adjust the amount to suit your preference.
As we gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter, let the warmth of homemade treats bring us even closer. Baking these peppermint cookies is more than just a recipe; it’s a way to keep traditions alive and make sweet memories with loved ones. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your family, and let the magic of baking happen. Enjoy sharing these treats—they’re sure to bring joy to every heart they touch!
Peppermint Cookies with Frosting
Ingredients
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and confectioners' sugar until light and fluffy.
- Stir in peppermint extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually fold this mixture into the creamed ingredients until combined.
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare baking sheets.
- Shape chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them two inches apart on ungreased sheets.
- Bake for 9 to 11 minutes until the bottoms are lightly browned.
- Transfer cookies to wire racks to cool completely.
- Beat softened butter in a small bowl until creamy.
- Gradually mix in confectioners' sugar, milk, peppermint extract, and optional food coloring until smooth.
- Spread frosting over cooled cookies and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.