Peppermint Butter Cookie Sandwiches Recipe

If you love the festive taste of peppermint mingling with rich, buttery sweetness, then Peppermint Butter Cookie Sandwiches are going to become your new holiday obsession. These delightful sandwiches offer a perfect balance of crisp, tender cookies with layers of luscious peppermint buttercream, all wrapped up with a pop of crushed peppermint candies on the edges. Every bite feels like a winter celebration, combining classic flavors and vibrant colors to brighten up any cookie tray or cozy gathering. Trust me, once you make these Peppermint Butter Cookie Sandwiches, they’ll be your go-to treat for gifting, sharing, or simply enjoying by the fire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making the perfect Peppermint Butter Cookie Sandwiches starts with simple, trusty ingredients that come together to create magic in texture and flavor. Each component plays a vital role, from the creamy butter providing richness, to the peppermint extract adding that cool, refreshing zing.

• Unsalted butter: Softened butter builds the rich, tender base of both cookie dough and frosting, ensuring a smooth texture.
• Powdered sugar: Gives a delicate sweetness and a fine crumb to cookies and buttercream alike.
• Salt: A pinch balances sweetness and enhances the peppermint flavor.
• Large egg: Adds moisture and structure to the cookie dough without weighing it down.
• Pure vanilla extract: Lends warmth and depth to the cookie flavor.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the dough, sifted for lightness and even mixing.
• Peppermint extract: The star flavor, bringing fresh, bright notes to both cookies and frosting.
• Red food coloring or beet powder: Adds a festive pop of color to half the dough, making the cookies visually striking without altering taste.
• Heavy cream or milk: Smooths the buttercream frosting, lending a luscious, pipeable texture.
• Crushed peppermint candies: Rolled on the frosted edges for a delightful crunch and extra burst of peppermint flavor.

How to Make Peppermint Butter Cookie Sandwiches

Step 1: Prepare the Two Doughs

Start by making two halves of the cookie dough—one plain and one beautifully red. This dual-color approach delivers the stunning striped effect. Use a mixer to cream butter, powdered sugar, and salt until fluffy, then add egg, vanilla, and peppermint extract. Incorporate the sifted flour gently to avoid tough cookies. For the red dough, fold in either food coloring or beet powder before combining with the wet ingredients.

Step 2: Chill and Form Dough Logs

Once each dough is mixed, form them into logs about 1.5 inches in diameter and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate or freeze these until firm, at least an hour, so the dough is easier to slice without crumbling. This chilling step is critical to keep those sharp, clean cookie shapes.

Step 3: Slice and Assemble the Cookie Layers

When chilled, slice each log in half lengthwise, then carefully cut each half into triangle-shaped strips with angled cuts to create a V pattern. Alternate red and white dough triangles to build new logs that showcase a pretty striped look. Gently press and roll these logs smooth before slicing them into thin, round cookies.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

Lay out your cookies evenly on parchment-lined baking sheets and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep a close eye since they should be soft with slightly golden edges—this will keep them tender and perfect for sandwiching!

Step 5: Make the Peppermint Buttercream Frosting

While the cookies cool, whip up a dreamy peppermint buttercream by beating softened butter with powdered sugar until fluffy. Add in cream and peppermint extract to create a smooth, spreadable frosting that complements the cookies wonderfully.

Step 6: Assemble the Peppermint Butter Cookie Sandwiches

Pipe a generous dollop of frosting onto half of the cookies, then sandwich them with the remaining cookies, gently pressing until the frosting oozes. Roll the frosted edges in the crushed peppermint candies—this step adds festive sparkle and a refreshing crunch to the sandwiches.

How to Serve Peppermint Butter Cookie Sandwiches

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of extra crushed peppermint or a light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving elevates these cookies visually and texturally. You can also top them with tiny edible silver balls for holiday glitz—making them not only delicious but also spectacularly festive.

Side Dishes

Serve these Peppermint Butter Cookie Sandwiches alongside a steaming cup of hot cocoa or peppermint tea for a cozy winter experience. They also pair beautifully with creamy eggnog or a simple glass of cold milk to balance the minty sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, arrange these sandwiches on a tiered dessert stand surrounded by fresh greenery or holly sprigs for holiday flair. Alternatively, wrap them individually in cellophane tied with a red ribbon for charming edible gifts that friends and family will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Peppermint Butter Cookie Sandwiches keep wonderfully at room temperature when stored in an airtight container, lasting up to five days. Keep them out of direct sunlight or heat to prevent the buttercream from softening too much.

Freezing

You can freeze these cookie sandwiches for up to two months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving to retain their best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Since these cookies are best enjoyed cool or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. However, if your buttercream softens too much, simply pop them in the fridge for a bit before serving to restore their perfect firmness.

FAQs

Can I use artificial peppermint flavor instead of natural extract?

While natural peppermint extract delivers a fresh, vibrant flavor, artificial peppermint flavor can work as a substitute. Just start with less and adjust to taste, as artificial flavors can sometimes be stronger or more medicinal.

What if I don’t have red food coloring? Can I skip the color?

You can definitely skip the red coloring if you prefer. The cookies will still be delicious, but without the classic peppermint candy cane look. For a natural option, beet powder adds lovely color without affecting flavor.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Peppermint Butter Cookie Sandwiches, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum. Keep in mind you might need to adjust the liquid slightly and be gentle when mixing to maintain the soft texture.

How do I prevent the cookie dough from getting too crumbly?

Make sure to add enough moisture when mixing—if the dough feels dry, a teaspoon or two of water can help. Also, chilling the dough well before slicing ensures it holds together better during cutting and baking.

Can I use these cookies as ice cream sandwiches?

Absolutely, these cookies are sturdy and flavorful enough to hold a scoop of peppermint or vanilla ice cream, creating a refreshing and festive ice cream sandwich treat that’s perfect for holiday parties or anytime you need a cool dessert.

Final Thoughts

Making Peppermint Butter Cookie Sandwiches is one of those joyful kitchen projects that feels like a seasonal celebration from start to finish. With their inviting colors and irresistible peppermint buttercream, these cookies are sure to become a treasured favorite in your holiday baking lineup. So, grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this festive, flavorful delight—you won’t regret it!

Print