There’s something magical about Peppermint Crinkle Cookies that makes them feel like a warm hug on a cold winter’s day. Picture sinking your teeth into soft, chewy cookies, with a delightful crunch from the powdered sugar coating, and an explosion of fresh peppermint flavor that dances on your tongue. These cookies are not just a treat; they’re an experience that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, making even the Grinch crack a smile.
Now, let me take you back to my childhood, where Christmas meant family gatherings and laughter echoing through our home. My grandmother would whip up these delightful Peppermint Crinkle Cookies every year, and I can still hear her saying, “If it doesn’t taste like a candy cane, I’m not baking it!” As we gathered around the table, it was a race to see who could snag the first cookie. I promise you’ll want to share this recipe during holiday parties or cozy nights in—no one can resist their festive charm!
Why You'll Love This Peppermint Crinkle Cookies
- This incredible Peppermint Crinkle Cookies transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Peppermint Crinkle Cookies:
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for giving the cookies their structure; sifted flour ensures a light and fluffy texture.
- Baking Powder: A key leavening agent that helps the cookies rise perfectly while keeping them soft and tender.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds rich chocolate flavor; opt for high-quality cocoa for the best results.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the deal; it’s what makes these cookies irresistible.
- Powdered Sugar: Coats the cookies to create that signature crinkle effect while adding sweetness.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is best; it brings richness and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Eggs: They bind everything together and add moisture; use large eggs for consistent results.
- Peppermint Extract: The star player! This is what gives your cookies their refreshing flavor—don’t skimp on quality!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Peppermint Crinkle Cookies:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure to line your baking sheets with parchment paper so that those precious cookies don’t stick!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, cocoa powder, and salt. Set it aside like it’s waiting for its moment of glory.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—this should take about three minutes. If you start dancing at this stage due to all the sugary goodness, I won’t judge!
Step 4: Add Eggs and Peppermint
Mix in eggs one at a time until fully combined. Then stir in peppermint extract; oh boy, can you smell that? It’s like Christmas morning!
Step 5: Combine Everything
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until well combined. Don’t be afraid to get in there with a spatula if needed—mix until no dry flour remains.
Step 6: Shape Your Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll them between your hands. Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar before placing them on prepared baking sheets about two inches apart.
Step 7: Bake Until Perfect
Bake in preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until they’ve crinkled beautifully. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
Transfer to plates and watch as everyone dives into these delightful Peppermint Crinkle Cookies! You might want to keep some hidden for yourself—they’re just that good!
You Must Know About Peppermint Crinkle Cookies
- This showstopping Peppermint Crinkle Cookies delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Cooking Process
To achieve the best results with your Peppermint Crinkle Cookies, start by creaming the butter and sugar together until fluffy. Then, mix in the eggs and peppermint extract before folding in dry ingredients. Finally, roll the dough into balls and coat in powdered sugar before baking.
Flavor Your Way
Don’t be afraid to get creative! Swap out peppermint extract for vanilla for a different flavor twist. You can also add chocolate chips or crushed candy canes for extra texture and taste. Feel free to experiment with different toppings or mixes to make these cookies your own!
Storing & Reheating
Store your Peppermint Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds, ensuring they stay soft and chewy without losing that delightful crunch.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Peppermint Crinkle Cookies
- This professional-quality Peppermint Crinkle Cookies relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Baking these cookies always brings back memories of my childhood when I made them with my grandmother during the holidays. The joy on her face as we shared them was priceless, a reminder that food connects us all!
FAQs
What are Peppermint Crinkle Cookies?
Peppermint Crinkle Cookies are delightful holiday treats that combine the rich flavors of chocolate with refreshing peppermint. These cookies are characterized by their cracked, crinkled tops, which create a beautiful visual appeal. The dough typically includes ingredients like cocoa powder, flour, sugar, and crushed peppermint candies. They are rolled in powdered sugar before baking, giving them a snowy appearance. These cookies not only taste amazing but also fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma during baking, making them a perfect addition to any festive gathering.
How do I make Peppermint Crinkle Cookies from scratch?
Making Peppermint Crinkle Cookies from scratch is straightforward. Start by mixing together the dry ingredients: flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then add eggs and vanilla extract. Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients. Finally, fold in crushed peppermint candies for that signature flavor. After chilling the dough, roll it into balls and coat them in powdered sugar before baking at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes.
Can I freeze Peppermint Crinkle Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze Peppermint Crinkle Cookies! To maintain their freshness, let them cool completely after baking. Then, place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature for about an hour or warm them briefly in the oven for that fresh-baked taste.
What variations can I try with Peppermint Crinkle Cookies?
There are many delicious variations you can try with Peppermint Crinkle Cookies! For instance, consider adding white chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor. You could also experiment with different types of peppermint extracts or even use crushed candy canes instead of traditional peppermint candies for added crunch and visual appeal. Additionally, adjusting the cocoa content can create a richer chocolate flavor to suit your preference.
Conclusion
Peppermint Crinkle Cookies are an irresistible treat that combines rich chocolate with refreshing peppermint flavor. With their beautiful crackled tops and snowy powdered sugar coating, these cookies not only taste delightful but also look festive on any dessert platter. By following simple steps to make them from scratch or exploring fun variations like adding white chocolate chips, you can create memorable desserts for any occasion. Enjoy baking these Peppermint Crinkle Cookies during the holiday season or whenever you crave something sweet!
Peppermint Crinkle Cookies
Peppermint Crinkle Cookies are the quintessential holiday treat, combining soft, chewy chocolate cookies with a refreshing peppermint twist. Coated in powdered sugar, these delightful cookies crackle beautifully as they bake, creating a festive visual that’s perfect for any gathering. The rich aroma of peppermint and chocolate wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting their first bite. Whether enjoyed at home or shared at parties, these cookies promise to spread joy and holiday cheer!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- Powdered sugar for coating
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt.
- In a separate bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in peppermint extract.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients until fully combined.
- Roll tablespoon-sized balls of dough in powdered sugar before placing on baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until crinkled; let cool before transferring to wire racks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
