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Peppermint Snowflake Sugar Cookies

peppermint snowflake sugar cookies - featured image

These festive peppermint snowflake sugar cookies combine classic buttery sugar cookie dough with cool peppermint and a crunchy candy cane topping. They’re easy to make, perfect for holiday gatherings, and fun for kids to decorate.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (up to 1 teaspoon for stronger flavor)
  • 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting or icing)
  • 23 teaspoons milk or dairy-free milk (for icing, if desired)
  • Optional: blue or white sparkling sugar, edible glitter

Instructions

  1. Measure and set out all ingredients. Ensure butter is softened and egg is at room temperature.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
  4. Beat in egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until smooth and creamy.
  5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low until just combined. If dough is crumbly, add a teaspoon of milk.
  6. Shape dough into a disc, wrap in plastic, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  8. On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use snowflake cutters to cut out cookies and transfer to baking sheets, leaving about an inch between each.
  9. Bake cookies for 8-10 minutes, until edges are set but not brown.
  10. Let cookies sit on the pan for 2 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
  11. Drizzle or spread icing (powdered sugar mixed with milk), then sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies and optional sparkling sugar.
  12. Once set, arrange cookies on a festive platter and serve. Store extras in an airtight container for up to a week.

Notes

Chill dough for crisp edges and defined shapes. Don’t overmix after adding flour. For gluten-free or vegan adaptations, substitute flour and egg as needed. Decorate with colored sugar or edible glitter for extra flair. Cookies freeze well for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: peppermint, sugar cookies, holiday cookies, Christmas cookies, snowflake cookies, festive dessert, easy cookies, kid-friendly, cookie exchange