Name: Peppermint Shortbread Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (at room temperature); ¾ cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon red food coloring; ½ teaspoon green food coloring; 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips; ½ cup crushed candy canes

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These Peppermint Shortbread Cookies are the perfect blend of buttery goodness, holiday cheer, and a refreshingly minty twist.

Whether it’s for a festive gathering, cookie exchange, or simply treating yourself, these cookies are bound to be a hit! The beautiful colors and delightful crunch of crushed candy canes will bring a smile to anyone’s face.

Plus, they are super easy to make!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you’re looking for a cookie that captures the essence of the holiday season, these Peppermint Shortbread Cookies are it! They are incredibly rich and buttery and the addition of peppermint and chocolate makes them irresistible.

Shortbread is known for its crumbly texture and that melt-in-your-mouth quality, and when you combine that with festive colors and flavors, you have yourself a cookie that not only tastes amazing but also looks stunning.

These cookies are perfect for sharing, gifting, or just enjoying yourself with a hot cup of cocoa.

Ingredients

To make these delightful cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
¾ cup (90 g) powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ¼ cups (270 g) all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon red food coloring
½ teaspoon green food coloring
1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
½ cup crushed candy canes

How To Make Peppermint Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C).

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, add the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar.

Using an electric mixer, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

This step is crucial, as it will give your cookies that lovely texture.

Step 3: Add Vanilla and Mix

Once your butter and sugar are fluffy, mix in the vanilla extract.

This will add a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor to your cookies.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt.

Gradually add this dry mixture into your butter mixture.

Gently mix until just combined, being careful not to over-mix.

Step 5: Color the Dough

Divide the dough in half.

In one half, add the red food coloring and in the other half, add the green food coloring.

Use your hands or a spatula to blend in the colors until you get a nice, even shade.

This will give your cookies that festive look!

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Once the dough is colored, take small amounts of both colors and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.

Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

You can also shape the dough into logs or any other shape you prefer.

Step 7: Press on the Candy Canes

Flatten each dough ball slightly and sprinkle the tops with crushed candy canes.

This not only adds flavor but also makes them look super festive!

Step 8: Bake

Pop the baking sheets into your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Keep an eye on them; you want that perfect golden color without overbaking.

Step 9: Cool and Dip in Chocolate

Once the cookies are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes.

Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

While the cookies cool, melt your semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave or a double boiler until smooth.

Step 10: Decorate with Chocolate

Once the cookies are cool, dip the edges into the melted chocolate or drizzle it over the top.

Sprinkle a little more crushed candy canes on top while the chocolate is still warm for added decoration.

Expert Tips

Make sure your butter is completely softened to room temperature for the best texture.
Experiment with different sprinkles or colored sugars instead of crushed candy canes for unique variations.
If you want more mint flavor, consider adding a few drops of peppermint extract to the dough.
For a fun twist, try adding in some chopped nuts or dried fruit for additional texture.

Variations and Customizations

Replace semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate or white chocolate for different flavors.
Add in some mini marshmallows to give a more festive touch.
Make these cookies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
For a truly unique twist, try using flavored extracts like almond or orange.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any cookies leftover (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

They will stay fresh for about a week.

If you want to keep them longer, you can also freeze them.

Just make sure they are well-wrapped so they don’t get freezer burn.

To thaw, simply leave them out at room temperature for a few hours.

FAQ

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a week.

When you’re ready to bake, simply let it come to room temperature, shape your cookies, and pop them in the oven!

What can I use instead of powdered sugar?

If you don’t have powdered sugar on hand, you can easily make your own by blending granulated sugar in a blender until it’s a fine powder.

Just be sure to measure after blending!

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much while baking?

Make sure your butter is softened but not melting.

Also, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help maintain shape and prevent spreading.

Can I use butter alternatives for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a vegan butter substitute or another fat, but it may slightly change the texture and taste of the cookies.

Just ensure it is suitable for baking and doesn’t have a strong flavor.

Conclusion

These Peppermint Shortbread Cookies are truly a delightful treat that encapsulates the joy and warmth of the holiday season.

With their buttery texture, vibrant colors, and refreshing peppermint flavor, they are bound to be a favorite among friends and family.

Whether for a holiday party, a quiet afternoon treat, or gifts for your loved ones, these cookies are sure to spread cheer and happiness.

So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the delightful experience of baking and indulging in these scrumptious cookies! Happy baking!