Peppermint Snickerdoodles: A Festive Twist on a Classic Cookie

Snickerdoodles are a timeless cookie with their soft, chewy texture and cinnamon-sugar coating. By adding a hint of peppermint, these cookies transform into a festive, holiday-inspired treat perfect for gifting, cookie exchanges, or enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa. Peppermint Snickerdoodles combine the classic cinnamon flavor with refreshing peppermint, offering a sweet, minty surprise in every bite.

These cookies are soft and pillowy on the inside, slightly crisp around the edges, and lightly spiced with cinnamon and peppermint. The addition of crushed candy canes enhances the festive flavor and provides a subtle crunch, making them ideal for holiday celebrations or wintertime treats. Their vibrant, holiday-appropriate taste also makes them perfect for decorating dessert tables or gifting in festive tins.

The recipe is approachable for both experienced bakers and beginners. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a batch of cookies that tastes and looks like it came from a bakery. In this article, you’ll find a complete guide to making Peppermint Snickerdoodles, including ingredient details, preparation instructions, tips, variations, serving suggestions, storage advice, nutritional insights, and frequently asked questions.

Ingredients You Will Need

To make these peppermint-infused cookies, gather the following ingredients:

Wet Ingredients

• 1/2 cup butter, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup shortening
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract

Dry Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Coating and Topping

• 3-4 candy canes, crushed
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

The combination of butter and shortening provides a soft and chewy texture, while the eggs and extracts give flavor and structure. Cream of tartar and baking soda are essential for that classic snickerdoodle tang and rise. Crushed candy canes add peppermint flavor and festive texture, while the cinnamon-sugar coating complements the peppermint with a warm, aromatic finish.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Follow these steps to create perfectly soft, minty snickerdoodles.

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them. Properly preheated ovens ensure even baking and consistent cookie texture.

Step 2: Cream Butter, Shortening, and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine butter, shortening, and 1 1/2 cups sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed to beat until light, fluffy, and creamy. This process incorporates air, which helps give the cookies their soft and tender texture.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Extracts

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated. Then add vanilla and peppermint extracts, mixing well. Peppermint extract adds a subtle holiday flavor without overpowering the cinnamon base.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Step 5: Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon sugar, crushed candy canes, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Mix thoroughly. This coating will give the cookies their signature snickerdoodle finish with a festive peppermint twist.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into balls. Roll each dough ball in the cinnamon-sugar and crushed candy cane mixture until coated. Place the coated dough balls on prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden and centers are set. Avoid overbaking to maintain a soft, chewy texture.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve once slightly cooled, or store in an airtight container. The cookies will remain soft for several days.

Tips for Perfect Peppermint Snickerdoodles

• Room Temperature Butter: Ensures smooth creaming with sugar and contributes to soft cookies.
• Crushing Candy Canes: Place in a resealable bag and crush with a rolling pin for even pieces.
• Do Not Overbake: Cookies should be soft in the center; they will continue to firm as they cool.
• Spacing: Allow at least 2 inches between cookies on the baking sheet to prevent them from merging.
• Peppermint Flavor: Adjust peppermint extract carefully, as it is strong; 1/4 teaspoon adds a subtle minty note.

Variations to Try

• Chocolate Peppermint Snickerdoodles: Add 1/2 cup cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for chocolate-flavored cookies.
• White Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white chocolate over cooled cookies for a festive touch.
• Extra Crunch: Mix finely chopped nuts into the dough for texture.
• Vegan Option: Substitute butter and eggs with plant-based alternatives.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with hot cocoa, coffee, or peppermint tea for a cozy winter treat.
• Arrange on a holiday dessert platter with other festive cookies.
• Wrap in cellophane and tie with a ribbon as edible gifts for friends and family.
• Pair with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Storage and Shelf Life

• Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Cookies can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap individually and place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm slightly in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a freshly baked feel.

Nutritional Insights

Peppermint Snickerdoodles provide energy from sugar and fats, with eggs contributing protein and essential nutrients. Cocoa powder and peppermint extract enhance flavor without adding extra calories. While these cookies are indulgent, enjoying them in moderation fits well into a balanced diet. Crushed candy canes add peppermint flavor and festive appeal with minimal added sugar.

Conclusion

Peppermint Snickerdoodles are a festive, flavorful twist on a classic cookie. With a soft, chewy texture, cinnamon-sugar coating, and refreshing peppermint flavor, they’re perfect for holiday celebrations, cookie swaps, or cozy nights at home. The combination of simple ingredients and easy preparation ensures that anyone can create bakery-quality cookies that impress both visually and in taste.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I store them for freshness?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

How do I crush candy canes easily?
Place them in a resealable bag and gently crush with a rolling pin until small pieces remain.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake in multiple batches.

Do they spread too much during baking?
Chilling the dough slightly helps maintain shape and prevent excessive spreading.

Can I use butter instead of shortening?
Yes, butter can be used for richer flavor; cookies may be slightly softer.

How long do they take to bake?
Approximately 10–12 minutes at 375°F (190°C), until edges are lightly golden.

Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes, folding in 1/2 cup chocolate chips adds extra richness.

Are these cookies soft or crispy?
They are soft and chewy with slightly crisp edges, typical of traditional snickerdoodles.

Peppermint Snickerdoodles are a delightful blend of tradition and festive flavor, perfect for wintertime treats and holiday gatherings. Their easy preparation, festive appearance, and irresistible flavor make them a must-bake for cookie lovers.