Why Make This Recipe
Peppermint Biscuit Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any festive occasion. Their refreshing mint flavor combined with a sweet, buttery base makes them a favorite among cookie lovers. These cookies not only taste great but also make for a lovely addition to holiday gatherings or cozy nights at home.
Baking these cookies is simple and fun. With a few basic ingredients, you can create a treat that brings a smile to everyone’s face. Whether you enjoy them yourself or gift them to friends and family, peppermint biscuits are sure to spread joy.
Equipment Needed for Peppermint Biscuit Cookies
To create delicious Peppermint Biscuit Cookies, having the right equipment will make the process smoother. Here’s what you will need:
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A whisk
- A rolling pin
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- A wire rack for cooling
- A piping bag (optional, for decorating)
What You Need to Make Peppermint Biscuit Cookies
To bake a batch of Peppermint Biscuit Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 1/2 teaspoons peppermint extract
2 1/2 cups (320 g) all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups (250 g) powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk, as needed for consistency
1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract for icing
Red gel food coloring
Crushed candy canes (optional)
How to Cook Peppermint Biscuit Cookies Step by Step
Begin by preparing the dough. In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a light texture. Once fluffy, beat in the large egg and the peppermint extract until thoroughly combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into the butter mixture, combining just until there are no dry spots. It’s important not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies. Once combined, divide the dough into two halves, flatten each half into discs, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 1 hour. This chilling step helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
After the chilling time, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. On a lightly floured surface, roll one disc of dough to about 1/4 inch in thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut the dough into candy-cane shapes, placing each cookie about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheets. Don’t forget to reroll the scraps to make more cookies. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. Once baked, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
While the cookies cool, prepare the icing by stirring together powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and 2 tablespoons of milk until smooth. If the icing is too thick, add a little more milk to get the right consistency. Once mixed, divide the icing into two portions. Keep the larger portion white and tint the smaller portion with red gel food coloring. Mix well until you achieve a deep red color for decorating.
Now is the time to decorate your cooled cookies. Take each biscuit and coat it in the white icing, allowing the excess to drip off. Next, use a piping bag (or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off) to pipe diagonal red stripes across each cookie. If you’d like a marbled effect, gently swirl with a toothpick. For an added festive touch, sprinkle crushed candy cane pieces on top while the icing is still wet. Let the decorated cookies sit for 1 to 2 hours to allow the icing to harden.
How to Make Peppermint Biscuit Cookies
Making Peppermint Biscuit Cookies can be a pleasant experience. Start by gathering all your ingredients and equipment to ensure a smooth baking process. The first step is to cream the butter and granulated sugar together. This is what gives your cookies a light texture. Aim for a pale yellow color and a fluffy consistency.
After integrating the egg and peppermint extract, prepare your dry ingredients separately. Whisking the flour, baking powder, and salt helps ensure even distribution of the leavening agent. When combining the two mixtures, do so gently to maintain the fluffiness created in the creaming step.
After chilling the dough, rolling it out should be enjoyable. Use a rolling pin and flour to prevent sticking. Choose shapes that reflect the festive spirit, like candy canes or holiday themes. The baking time is crucial; keep an eye on the color of the edges as they indicate the perfect baking point.
Finally, take your time decorating with icing. Use the colors and crushed candy canes to create a visual treat. The result will be cookies that not only taste incredible but also look delightful on any dessert table.
How to Serve Peppermint Biscuit Cookies
Peppermint Biscuit Cookies can be served in various ways to elevate your dining experience. They make a perfect addition to holiday parties, coffee breaks, or dessert tables during festive gatherings. Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter or in a festive tin to share with guests.
If you want to enhance the experience, serve them with a glass of cold milk or a steaming cup of hot cocoa. The refreshing mint flavor pairs well with these beverages, making them an excellent choice for a winter afternoon treat. You could even create a holiday-themed cookie gift box to share with friends and family.
For a fun twist, consider serving the cookies alongside some vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Their cool minty flavor contrasts nicely with the creamy texture, creating a delightful combination that everyone will love.
What to Serve with Peppermint Biscuit Cookies
When planning a menu, think about what to serve alongside Peppermint Biscuit Cookies. Classic accompaniments include:
- A rich hot chocolate to complement the cookies’ minty flavor.
- A selection of teas, such as peppermint or chamomile, that can enhance the overall experience.
- Tart fruits like cranberries or oranges will add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
- Cheese platters with a variety of cheeses can provide a savory balance.
Creating a dessert table with an assortment of sweets and snacks can also enhance the appeal of serving these cookies. Other festive cookies and cakes can make for a delightful display.
How to Store Peppermint Biscuit Cookies
To keep your Peppermint Biscuit Cookies fresh, proper storage is key. First, ensure the cookies are completely cool before placing them in a storage container. This helps to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to soggy cookies.
Use an airtight container to keep them fresh. Layer the cookies with parchment paper to avoid them sticking together. You can store them at room temperature for up to a week, or longer if you refrigerate them. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature for the best texture before serving.
If you want to store the cookies for an extended time, consider freezing them. Place them in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. When you want to enjoy them again, simply take them out and let them thaw at room temperature.
Tips to Make Peppermint Biscuit Cookies
Baking the perfect Peppermint Biscuit Cookies can be mastered with a few helpful tips. First, use high-quality peppermint extract to elevate the flavor. Fresh ingredients always result in better taste, so check expiration dates on your baking supplies.
Ensure you don’t overmix the dough after adding dry ingredients. This can lead to tough cookies. Stick to gently folding the flour in until just combined.
Chilling the dough is essential; it helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents spreading while baking. If you’re short on time, try placing the dough in the freezer for about 20-30 minutes instead.
When decorating, be creative! You can use sprinkles, edible glitter, or different colored icings to add a personal touch to each cookie.
Variation
There are endless possibilities when it comes to variations for Peppermint Biscuit Cookies. You can experiment with different flavor extracts, such as vanilla or almond, to create a unique twist. Adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the dough will add more texture and flavor.
For a chocolate version, substitute some of the flour with cocoa powder for delicious chocolate peppermint cookies. You can also try making half of the cookies chocolate and the other half vanilla for a stunning cookie platter.
Best Time to Make Peppermint Biscuit Cookies
The best time to make Peppermint Biscuit Cookies is during the holiday season. Their festive flavor and beautiful appearance make them perfect for Christmas gatherings, New Year’s Eve parties, and winter celebrations.
Additionally, they are an excellent treat for cookie exchanges or holiday gift boxes. Baking these cookies can also be a fun activity to enjoy with family and friends, creating memories along the way.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When baking Peppermint Biscuit Cookies, some common mistakes can affect the results. One major pitfall is not properly measuring the flour. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
Another mistake is not chilling the dough. Skipping this step can cause the cookies to spread too much while baking. Always allow enough time for chilling.
Lastly, avoid overbaking. Keep a close eye on your cookies. They should be lightly golden at the edges but soft in the center when you take them out.
Nutritional Notes
While Peppermint Biscuit Cookies are a treat, enjoying them in moderation is essential. They are rich in sugar and butter, contributing to their delightful taste. However, they can also provide some energy due to the carbohydrates present.
To make them slightly healthier, consider using whole wheat flour and reducing the amount of sugar. You can also experiment with natural sweeteners in your icing.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different flavor instead of peppermint?
Yes, you can use any extract you prefer, like vanilla or almond, to create a different flavor profile.
2. How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are ready when the edges are lightly golden, and the center is still soft. They will firm up as they cool.
3. Can I freeze the cookies after baking?
Yes, you can freeze Peppermint Biscuit Cookies. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container for freezing.
Conclusion
Peppermint Biscuit Cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season. Their refreshing mint flavor and festive design bring joy to any occasion. With simple steps and a few ingredients, you can create delectable cookies that everyone will love.
Gather friends and family for a fun baking session, and enjoy the sweet aroma filling your kitchen. Share these cookies at parties or enjoy them during quiet evenings at home. They are sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection for years to come.
