Imagine a cookie so soft, so delicately flavored, that it transports you instantly to a winter wonderland of pure bliss! These Sour Cream Peppermint Sugar Cookies are not just another holiday treat – they're a magical experience that combines the rich, creamy texture of classic sugar cookies with a refreshing peppermint twist. Perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or those cozy moments when you need a little sweet comfort, these cookies are about to become your new seasonal obsession.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats, ensuring even spacing for cookie placement.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes. The mixture should appear pale and smooth.
- Add sour cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure even incorporation.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of leavening agents and prevent flour clumps.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough cookies.
- Chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to handle and prevent excessive spreading during baking.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing cookies about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear set but not browned.
- Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar or decorate with peppermint-flavored frosting for additional festive flair.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted for the perfect cookie texture.
- Chill the Dough: Don't skip the refrigeration step – it helps prevent cookies from spreading too much and enhances flavor development.
- Extract Quality: Use pure peppermint extract for the most vibrant and authentic flavor.
- Uniform Sizing: Use a cookie scoop for consistent cookie sizes, ensuring even baking.
- Watch Carefully: Cookies are done when edges are just golden – overcooking will dry them out.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let cookies cool completely before storing to maintain their soft texture.
- Storage Tip: Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and preserve their delicate shape.Pro Bonus: For an extra festive touch, crush some candy canes and sprinkle them on top of a light glaze for a stunning holiday presentation!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 30mg
