why make this recipe
Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies are a delightful addition to your holiday celebrations. The combination of buttery cookies with a crunchy peppermint topping creates a joyful treat that’s both delicious and visually appealing. Children and adults alike will cherish these cookies, making them perfect for family gatherings or cookie swaps.
This recipe is easy to follow, allowing even novice bakers to create something magical. The festive flavors of peppermint and the warm aroma from the oven will fill your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for the holiday season.
equipment needed for Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies
To make these delicious cookies, you will need some essential equipment.
- Mixing bowls for combining ingredients.
- A stand mixer or hand mixer for creaming butter and sugar.
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Baking sheets lined with parchment paper for easy cookie transfer.
- An oven for baking.
- A wire rack for cooling the cookies.
These simple tools will have you ready to create delicious Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies.
What You Need to Make Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cookie dough (reserved)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for crumble)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for crumble)
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
How to Cook Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies Step by Step
To start making your Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly. Next, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This step will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use a stand mixer or hand mixer to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process is essential as it incorporates air into the batter, giving your cookies a soft texture. Once the butter and sugar are well mixed, add one large egg and a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the bowl, mixing until fully incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. It’s important not to overmix at this stage; gently combine until you no longer see dry flour. This is the main cookie dough that will give your cookies their base.
Now, you’ll want to reserve 1/2 cup of this dough for the crumble topping. In a small bowl, mix the reserved dough with 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and 1 tablespoon of sugar until the mixture becomes crumbly. This crumbly mixture adds texture to your cookies and creates a delightful topping.
Next, it’s time to shape your cookies. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough per cookie and roll them into balls. Place these dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, making sure to space them a few inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with your palm to create a base for the crumble topping.
Now, take the crumble mixture you prepared earlier and press it into the center of each cookie. Make sure each cookie gets that delicious topping for extra flavor. To add some festive flair, sprinkle the centers with crushed peppermint candies or candy canes. This not only adds flavor but also gives a pop of color that’s perfect for the holidays. Lastly, sprinkle a bit of granulated sugar on top of each cookie for that extra sweetness.
Place the baking sheets in your preheated oven and bake the cookies for about 11 to 13 minutes. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are golden brown and the centers are set. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps them firm up.
After they have cooled a bit, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days to keep them fresh.
how to make Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies
Making Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies is a fun and rewarding experience. You begin by gathering all your ingredients and equipment to streamline your cooking process. This will make the activity enjoyable and efficient.
Start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees F and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. Prepare your baking area by ensuring all ingredients are at room temperature, which will help them combine more easily.
Mix your butter and sugar together until fluffy, ensuring you get enough air into the mix. Add in your egg and vanilla, and mix until well blended. Meanwhile, prepare your dry ingredients by whisking together flour, baking soda, and salt in another bowl. Combining these correctly ensures that your cookies have the perfect texture.
Once your dough is ready, reserve a portion for the crumble topping, mixing it with extra flour and sugar until crumbly. Make your cookie formations by scooping and rolling the dough. Press the crumble topping into them and sprinkle crushed peppermint on top for a festive touch before baking.
Baking is a crucial step. Monitor your cookies closely, and allow them to cool before serving. The perfectly baked cookies will be soft in the center with a slight crunch at the edges. Dust them with powdered sugar for a final touch of holiday spirit.
how to serve Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies
Serving your Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies can turn a simple dessert into a festive centerpiece. Arrange the cookies on a decorative plate or a festive cake stand for a visually appealing presentation. This simple touch adds charm to your holiday table.
For gatherings, consider using a large platter so guests can easily serve themselves. Pair the cookies with a warm beverage, like hot cocoa or spiced tea, for a cozy touch. The warmth of the drink complements the coolness of the peppermint, creating a harmonious balance in flavors.
You can also package some cookies in decorative bags or tins for gifting. Add a small note or label, and you’ve got a lovely gift for neighbors or friends. This personal touch makes your festive cookies not just a treat, but a heartfelt gesture too.
what to serve with Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies
When it comes to serving your Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies, pair them with beverages that enhance their flavor. Hot cocoa is a classic choice, especially when topped with whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed peppermint.
Coffee is another excellent option, with its rich flavor contrasting beautifully against the sweetness of the cookies. If you’re hosting a holiday party, consider offering a selection of teas, from peppermint to chai, which can also enhance the festive theme.
Additionally, these cookies can be served alongside holiday desserts like brownies or a fruit tart. The variety will offer your guests different textures and flavors, making the dessert table more exciting.
how to store Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies
Storing your Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies properly is important to keep them fresh. Once the cookies have completely cooled, place them in an airtight container. This will help maintain their softness and flavor.
If you prefer, you can also layer the cookies with parchment paper in between. This prevents sticking and keeps them looking nice. Properly stored, these cookies can last for up to four days at room temperature.
For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven for a delightful treat.
tips to make Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies
To make your Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies even better, keep these tips in mind. First, ensure your butter is at room temperature. This helps in cream better with the sugar, leading to a light and fluffy texture.
When it comes to flour, make sure to spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off. Avoid scooping directly from the bag, as this can lead to too much flour being used, which makes your cookies tough.
Don’t skip the chilling step if you want cookies with a nice shape. Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes in the fridge can help prevent spreading during baking.
Finally, feel free to adjust the amount of crushed peppermint according to your taste. If you prefer a more subtle peppermint flavor, use less. The key is to experiment and find that perfect balance for your palate.
variation
While the classic version of Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies is delightful, there are variations to explore. For those who love chocolate, consider adding mini chocolate chips to the cookie dough. The combination of chocolate and peppermint is always a hit during the holidays.
You can also swap the crushed peppermint candies with other toppings, like crushed Oreos or toffee bits, for a different flavor. Another option is to create a chocolate version of the dough by incorporating cocoa powder into the main cookie mix.
These variations not only make your cookies unique but also allow you to cater to different tastes and preferences during the holiday season.
best time to make Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies
The best time to make Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies is during the holiday season. This is when peppermint flavors are most celebrated, and people are eager to try festive treats.
Baking these cookies on a chilly winter day is ideal as they fill your home with a warm and inviting aroma. Consider making them ahead of any holiday gatherings, so you have a sweet treat to offer your guests.
You can also bake them as part of your seasonal traditions, creating lasting memories with family and friends. Whether you choose to enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save some for later, these cookies are always a welcome addition to any holiday celebration.
common mistakes to avoid
When preparing your Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies, there are a few common mistakes to avoid. One major mistake is overmixing the dough. This can lead to tough cookies rather than soft and chewy ones. Mix just until combined.
Another mistake is not measuring ingredients accurately. Use proper measuring techniques to ensure your cookies turn out as intended. Too much flour or sugar can greatly change the texture and flavor of your final product.
Chilling the dough is often overlooked but is critical for achieving the right shape. Skipping this step can result in cookies that spread too much, losing their nice shape. Lastly, be cautious not to bake them for too long. A few extra minutes can turn perfectly baked cookies into overdone ones.
nutritional notes
While enjoying Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies, it’s good to be aware of their nutritional content. Each cookie contains a balance of carbohydrates from the flour and sugars, which provide energy. The butter contributes to its rich flavor as well as fats, which is essential for a satisfying treat.
The addition of peppermint candies not only adds a festive flavor but also provides a bit of fun and color. However, like most cookies, these should be enjoyed in moderation, especially during the holiday season when it’s easy to indulge.
FAQs
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter in the recipe?
A: Yes, you can replace the unsalted butter with margarine, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
Q: How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to replace the regular flour in the recipe.
Q: Can I add other flavors to the dough?
A: Absolutely! Vanilla extract is a great choice, and you can also try almond extract for a different twist.
conclusion
Festive Peppermint Christmas Crumble Cookies are more than just a dessert; they embody the spirit of the holiday season. With their cheerful colors and delightful flavors, they are sure to bring joy to any gathering.
Baking these cookies is a rewarding experience, perfect for family traditions or holiday parties. By following this simple recipe, from ingredients to serving suggestions, you’ll create a treat that everyone will love.
So gather your loved ones, spend time in the kitchen, and enjoy the delicious flavors of peppermint this holiday season!
