Peppermint Sugar Cookies

Get ready to add a touch of holiday magic to your baking repertoire with these delightful Peppermint Sugar Cookies. These cookies are a perfect combination of classic sugar cookies with a festive twist of peppermint that will have your home smelling like the holidays in no time. Whether you’re baking these cookies for a cookie swap, a festive gathering, or simply to treat yourself and your loved ones, they are sure to be a hit.

**Peppermint Sugar Cookies**

**Ingredients:**
– 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies, for topping

**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
4. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
6. Using a cookie scoop or your hands, roll the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
7. Gently flatten each dough ball with the bottom of a glass dipped in granulated sugar to prevent sticking.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately sprinkle the crushed candy canes or peppermint candies on top of each cookie while they are still warm. Press lightly to adhere the candy to the cookies.
10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

These Peppermint Sugar Cookies are a festive addition to any holiday gathering or a cozy treat to enjoy by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa. The delightful blend of peppermint and sugar in these cookies will evoke memories of wintery nights and joyful moments spent with loved ones. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a batch of these sweet treats that are sure to become a new holiday favorite in your home. Enjoy the simple pleasure of baking and spreading holiday cheer with these delicious Peppermint Sugar Cookies!