There’s something about the festive season that awakens the inner baker in all of us. As soon as the first frost touches the ground, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with the sweet scent of vanilla and peppermint. The moment I laid my hands on this recipe for Peppermint Swirl Sugar Cookies, I knew it would become a staple for my holiday gatherings.

Imagine pulling a batch out of the oven, their perfectly crisp edges contrasting with irresistibly soft, chewy centers. Each bite is like a warm hug on a cold winter day, with a delightful peppermint kick that dances on your taste buds. With the vibrant swirls of red and white, these cookies not only taste amazing but are sure to bring a festive flair to your dessert table.

Whether you’re gearing up for a holiday potluck or simply want to treat yourself and loved ones, these cookies are as easy to make as they are to love. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why Are Peppermint Swirl Sugar Cookies Special?

Peppermint Swirl Sugar Cookies are a festive treat that will enchant your holiday gatherings.

Easy to Make: The straightforward process makes these cookies perfect for bakers of all levels.
Chewy Texture: With a delightful contrast of crispy edges and soft centers, every bite feels like a holiday delight.
Festive Appearance: The vibrant red and white swirls instantly elevate your dessert presentation.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The refreshing peppermint flavor is sure to bring joy to everyone at the table.
Make Ahead: Prepare the dough in advance or freeze baked cookies for effortless enjoyment later.

These cookies not only taste amazing but also fill your home with a welcoming, holiday aroma.

Peppermint Swirl Sugar Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and tenderness; use room temperature for easy creaming.
Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and contributes to a tender cookie; can be substituted with a sugar alternative for less sweetness.
Large Egg + Egg Yolk – Provides moisture and richness; vital for the cookie’s structure.
Peppermint Extract (optional) – Enhances the holiday flavor; almond extract can be a delightful alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; substitute with vanilla bean paste for a richer taste.
All-Purpose Flour – Main structure builder for cookies; gluten-free flour can be used, but expect a different texture.
Cornstarch – Creates a softer texture and helps to thicken the dough.
Fine Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent providing lift; can be swapped with baking powder if necessary.
Red Gel Food Coloring – Used to create vibrant swirls; avoid liquid coloring as it alters dough consistency.

For the Coating

Granulated or Sanding Sugar – Adds a delightful texture; can be omitted for a lighter treat.

Bake up a batch of these Peppermint Swirl Sugar Cookies and watch your friends and family smile with every festive bite!

How to Make Peppermint Swirl Sugar Cookies

Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Cream Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take about 2-3 minutes. This step is essential for achieving that chewy texture!
Combine Wet Ingredients: Add the large egg, egg yolk, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract to your creamed mixture. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
Mix Dry Ingredients: Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, fine salt, and baking soda. Mix until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Color the Dough: Split the dough in half. Take one half and mix in a few drops of red gel food coloring to achieve your desired color, leaving the other half plain.
Form Cookie Balls: Using a teaspoon, scoop out portions of each colored dough, rolling them into small balls. Alternate the colors and click them together to create a circular pattern.
Shape the Swirls: Gently press and shape the dough balls into swirls. Use your fingers to create a beautifully marbled effect.
Chill the Dough: Roll the shaped cookies in granulated or sanding sugar (if desired), then chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or freeze for 15 minutes. This step helps maintain their shape while baking.
Bake Cookies: Place cookies on baking sheets with enough space in between (about 2 inches apart) and bake for 11-13 minutes, or until the edges look set. Allow to cool on the baking sheets for 15 minutes before transferring them to wire racks.

Optional: For an added touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies for a festive finish!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Swirl Sugar Cookies

Room Temperature: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and softness.

Fridge: For longer storage, place cookies in the fridge for up to 1 week in an airtight container, ensuring they remain sealed to prevent drying out.

Freezer: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 2 months; just bake them straight from the freezer when you’re ready for a fresh batch of peppermint swirl sugar cookies.

Reheating: If you freeze baked cookies, reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their chewy goodness.

Expert Tips for Perfect Peppermint Swirl Sugar Cookies

Creaming Technique: Thoroughly cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy; this is key to achieving a chewy texture in your peppermint swirl sugar cookies.

Proper Spacing: Ensure there’s adequate spacing (about 2 inches) on your baking sheet to prevent the cookies from spreading into each other while baking.

Monitor Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the cookies; they may seem soft when you take them out, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.

Chilling is Key: Don’t skip the chilling step! Chilling the dough helps maintain the shape and enhances the final texture of the cookies.

Use Gel Colors: Opt for gel food coloring instead of liquid; this keeps the consistency of your dough intact while providing vibrant colors for your peppermint swirl sugar cookies.

Peppermint Swirl Sugar Cookies Variations

Feel free to play around with this recipe and create your own festive masterpieces. Let your creativity shine as the cozy scents fill your kitchen!

Almond Extract: Swap the peppermint extract for almond extract for a flavorful twist that adds a nutty undertone.
Rainbow Colors: Instead of just red, use an array of gel food colors to create a vibrant rainbow swirl, perfect for any celebration.
Chocolate Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate on top for an extra layer of sweetness and a touch of elegance.
Coconut Flakes: Stir in unsweetened coconut flakes to the dough for added texture and a tropical flair that balances well with peppermint.
Mint Chips: Add a handful of mint chocolate chips for bursts of chocolatey goodness combined with the refreshing peppermint flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to suit those with dietary restrictions; just keep in mind that texture may vary.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a hint of cayenne pepper or ground ginger into the dough for an unexpected warm spice that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
Nutty Finish: Fold in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the dough before baking for a delightful crunch and added flavor!

Each variation adds its own unique touch, making your peppermint swirl sugar cookies even more delightful for your holiday gatherings. Enjoy experimenting!

What to Serve with Peppermint Swirl Sugar Cookies?

Elevate your holiday gatherings with delightful pairings that complement the festive charm of these cookies.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of rich hot chocolate creates the perfect cozy companion, enhancing the peppermint experience.
Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai beautifully contrast the sweetness of the cookies, creating a harmonious holiday beverage.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream alongside the cookies offers a creamy delight, balancing out the minty flavors.
Fresh Fruit Salad: The refreshing burst of citrus and berries brings a bright contrast against the sweet, chewy cookies, adding a balance of textures and flavors.
Sugary Peppermint Bark: A delightful dessert that echoes the cookie’s festive flavors while adding texture with its crunchy chocolate layer.
Nutty Biscotti: Pairing with biscotti introduces a satisfying crunch, presenting a lovely dip into coffee or tea for a comforting experience.
Festive Fizz: Consider serving a sparkling cranberry drink or holiday punch for a festive twist that complements the cookies’ vibrant look.

Indulge in these pairings for a holiday feast that scent the air with joy and keeps the spirit of celebration alive!

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Swirl Sugar Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their holiday baking! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by chilling it in the refrigerator. Alternatively, shape the cookie balls and freeze them for up to 2 months. To maintain their lovely texture, ensure the dough is well-wrapped, which prevents freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen cookies on the baking sheet and increase the baking time by a couple of minutes. This ensures you have freshly baked, delightful cookies on hand with minimal effort, making them an ideal treat for any festive occasion!

Peppermint Swirl Sugar Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right peppermint extract?
Absolutely! When selecting peppermint extract, look for pure extracts rather than synthetic ones, as they provide a more authentic flavor. Check the label for a high percentage of peppermint oil, which typically indicates a stronger taste. If you’re sensitive to peppermint, consider almond extract as a lovely alternative for a unique spin on your cookies.

How should I store leftover cookies?
For sure! Store your baked Peppermint Swirl Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, place the cookies in the fridge, where they can stay fresh for about one week. Just ensure they are well-sealed to avoid drying out—nobody wants a sad, crumbly cookie!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Very much! Freezing is a great option for future enjoyment. To freeze unbaked dough balls, place them on a baking sheet first, ensuring they are not touching, and freeze until solid. Then transfer the frozen balls into an airtight freezer bag or container, where they’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for freshness, bake them straight from the freezer—no thawing needed!

What should I do if my cookies come out too tough?
Sometimes it happens! If your cookies are too tough, they may have been overmixed or baked too long. To ensure a tender texture, mix the dough until just combined and keep an eye on your baking time. Remember, cookies will continue to bake while cooling on the sheet, so pulling them out just as the edges are set will lead to the best results.

Are these cookies safe for my pets or those with allergies?
It’s important to be cautious! While Peppermint Swirl Sugar Cookies are delightful for humans, they aren’t safe for pets, especially dogs, as peppermint can upset their stomach. If baking for someone with allergies, double-check ingredient labels for potential allergens like gluten, nuts, or dairy. You can also explore alternative ingredients, such as using gluten-free flour, to accommodate dietary needs.

How can I enhance the festive look of my cookies?
Very! To amp up the festive flair, consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies or adding sprinkles after rolling them in sugar. You can also use different colors of gel food coloring for a wider variety of festive swirls. The more the merrier—let your creativity shine in this cookie canvas!