Cookie Ingredients Unveiled
To kick things off, you'll need to gather your ingredients. These include all-purpose flour for the structure, baking powder to give the cookies their
lift, and salt to balance the sweetness. Granulated sugar, a common sweetener, is also essential, along with unsalted butter, adding richness. Eggs are crucial for binding the ingredients, while vanilla extract contributes a classic aroma. Peppermint extract is vital for the cookies' distinctive flavour, and powdered sugar is the finishing touch. Ensure all your ingredients are measured accurately for optimal results. Careful measurement is key to ensure the cookies have the right texture and taste.
Mixing the Batter
The first step in the mixing process is to cream together the butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step incorporates air, which is essential for a soft cookie. Next, add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla and peppermint extracts. In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to tough cookies. The batter should be smooth and ready for chilling.
Chilling and Shaping
Refrigerating the dough is an important step. Cover the cookie dough and chill it for at least an hour. This step allows the flavors to meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking. Once chilled, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, roll the dough into small balls. Before baking, roll each dough ball in powdered sugar, ensuring it's completely coated. The powdered sugar creates the signature crinkled appearance.
Baking to Perfection
Place the powdered sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are still slightly soft. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on the cookies. Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Allowing them to cool fully prevents them from breaking apart and helps the texture set.
Serving and Enjoying
Once the cookies are completely cool, they're ready to enjoy! The peppermint crinkle cookies are delicious on their own or with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. The combination of the soft, chewy interior, the crisp, crinkled exterior, and the refreshing peppermint flavour make these cookies a perfect treat for any occasion. These cookies are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Consider packaging them beautifully for gifting to loved ones.
