Festive Striped Peppermint Sandwich Cookies Recipe for Winter Joy

Sweet memories dance around these striped peppermint sandwich cookies that remind me of cozy winter afternoons.

Crisp edges and creamy centers promise delightful moments of pure indulgence.

My grandmother’s kitchen always smelled magical when she baked similar treats during holiday seasons.

Delicate peppermint swirls peek through buttery layers, creating visual magic that makes mouths water instantly.

Soft vanilla cookies embrace rich cream filling with delicate peppermint notes that spark joyful celebrations.

Homemade comfort arrives in each carefully crafted bite, connecting generations through shared culinary love.

You might find yourself falling head over heels for this irresistible seasonal delight.

Grab a plate and let the festive magic begin!

Why Peppermint Sandwich Cookies Are So Refreshing

• Create Festive Holiday Treats: These striped peppermint sandwich cookies bring instant cheer with their stunning visual appeal and classic seasonal flavor. The red and white swirled design makes them perfect for Christmas gatherings or winter celebrations.
• Master an Impressive Baking Technique: The dough-stacking method produces a professional-looking cookie that seems complicated but is surprisingly achievable for home bakers. Alternating strips create beautiful marbled patterns without requiring advanced pastry skills.
• Customize with Ease: Bakers can adjust peppermint intensity by modifying extract levels and swap crushed candy garnishes for personal preferences. The recipe offers flexibility for those wanting to experiment with presentation and taste.
• Quick and Delightful Dessert: These cookies come together in under an hour of active preparation time, making them an excellent last-minute treat for unexpected guests or spontaneous baking sessions. The filling and assembly process is straightforward and fun for all skill levels.

What Makes These Cookies Bright and Bold

• Butter: Provides rich flavor and helps create a tender, soft texture. Softened at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with cookie browning and crisp edges.
• Egg: Binds ingredients and adds structure to the cookie dough.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.
• Peppermint Extract: Gives a cool, refreshing mint flavor to the cookies.
• Flour: Forms the basic structure of the cookie. All-purpose works best.
• Baking Powder: Helps cookies rise and become light and fluffy.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Red Gel Food Coloring: Creates the distinctive red and white striped pattern.

• Butter: Creates a creamy, smooth base for the filling.
• Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps thicken the filling.
• Peppermint Extract: Adds a cool, minty flavor to the sandwich filling.
• Heavy Cream: Helps achieve the right spreadable consistency for the filling.

• Peppermint Candies: Optional topping for extra crunch and festive look. Crushed for rolling cookie edges.

Steps for Perfect Swirls and Layers

Step 1: Create Delightful Dough

Grab a spacious mixing bowl and whip the butter and sugar until they transform into a fluffy cloud. Crack in the egg, then sprinkle vanilla and peppermint extracts, blending everything smoothly.

• Flour
• Baking powder
• Salt

Whisk these dry ingredients in a separate bowl, then gently fold into the creamy mixture until a soft dough emerges.

Split the dough into two portions. Massage red gel food coloring into one half, kneading until the color spreads evenly like a vibrant sunset.

Step 2: Craft Stunning Stripes

Roll out both the crimson and plain doughs into rectangular shapes, ensuring they’re equally thin.

Carefully layer the red dough atop the plain dough, then softly press with a rolling pin to unite them.

Slice the dough into slender strips. Alternate and stack these strips, flipping every other one to create a mesmerizing striped pattern. Gently press the strips together.

Tuck the dough into the refrigerator for a cool 30-minute nap.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Warm up the oven to 350F (175C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Carve the chilled dough into delicate rounds. Arrange on the baking sheets, leaving breathing room between each cookie.

Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges look just set. Let them rest and cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 4: Whip Up Creamy Filling

Beat butter until it becomes silky smooth. Gradually shower in powdered sugar and peppermint extract.

Splash in heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the filling reaches a dreamy, spreadable consistency.

Step 5: Assemble Magical Cookies

Spread a generous layer of peppermint filling on one cookie’s flat side. Crown with another cookie to create a delectable sandwich.

Optional: Roll the cookie edges in crushed peppermint candies for an extra festive touch.

Tips for Flavor and Presentation

• Master Color Blending: Knead food coloring gently into dough to achieve a vibrant, even red tone without overworking the mixture, ensuring a smooth striped pattern.
• Chill for Perfect Stripes: Refrigerate the layered dough for at least 30 minutes to help the strips hold their shape and prevent spreading during baking, resulting in crisp, defined stripes.
• Control Filling Consistency: Add heavy cream gradually to the buttercream filling, creating a spreadable texture that's neither too runny nor too thick for easy sandwich assembly.
• Prevent Cookie Burning: Watch cookies closely during baking, as thin striped cookies can quickly go from perfectly golden to overdone; remove from oven when edges are just set.
• Customize Candy Coating: Experiment with different crushed candies or sprinkles around the cookie edges for a personalized touch that adds extra crunch and festive flair.

Store to Maintain Texture and Coolness

• Seal these delightful peppermint sandwich cookies in an airtight container to maintain their crisp texture and vibrant flavor.
• Store at room temperature for up to 5 days, keeping them away from direct sunlight and humidity.
• Layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking and preserve their delicate stripes.
• For longer preservation, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 weeks, ensuring they're completely cooled before packaging.
• Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to restore their original texture and taste.

Pair With Hot Sips or Chilly Drinks

• Brew Festive Hot Chocolate: Pair these striped peppermint sandwich cookies with a rich, creamy hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for an indulgent holiday treat that warms the soul.
• Create Peppermint Mocha Magic: Serve alongside a smooth peppermint mocha coffee, where the espresso's depth complements the cookie's sweet and minty flavor profile, creating a delightful winter afternoon pick-me-up.
• Match with Vanilla Chai Latte: The warm, spicy notes of a vanilla chai latte beautifully balance the cool peppermint intensity, offering a harmonious contrast that elevates the cookie's festive charm.
• Pair with Sparkling Champagne: For an elegant twist, enjoy these cookies with a crisp, chilled champagne that cuts through the sweetness and adds a touch of sophistication to your holiday dessert experience.

Fun Flavor Combos and Decorations

• Chocolate Candy Cane Crunch: Replace half the dough with cocoa powder for a rich chocolate base. Incorporate crushed candy canes directly into the dough for extra peppermint texture and visual appeal.
• Festive Citrus Stripe: Swap peppermint extract with orange or lemon extract. Add orange or lemon zest to the dough for a bright, zesty flavor profile that complements the striped design.
• Cream Cheese Holiday Sandwich: Mix cream cheese into the filling for a tangy, softer texture. Sprinkle edible glitter or colored sugar on the cookie edges for a festive touch.
• Nutty Peppermint Swirl: Fold finely chopped toasted almonds or pecans into one layer of the dough before creating the stripe pattern. This adds a delightful crunch and nutty undertone to the classic peppermint cookie.

Peppermint Cookie Questions Resolved

• What makes these cookies unique?

The striped dough technique creates a beautiful red and white swirled pattern that looks professionally made, making these cookies stand out from typical sandwich cookies.

• Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. This makes the recipe great for advance preparation and saves time during busy holiday seasons.

• Do I need special baking skills to create the striped effect?

Not at all! The technique is simpler than it looks. By carefully stacking and alternating colored dough strips, even beginner bakers can achieve a stunning striped design with some patience.

• Are these cookies good for holiday gifting?

Absolutely! These peppermint sandwich cookies are perfect for holiday gifts. They look impressive, taste delicious, and have a festive red and white color scheme that makes them ideal for Christmas or winter celebrations.

Striped Peppermint Sandwich Cookies Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 24 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 24 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Festive Peppermint Sandwich Cookies blend classic holiday charm with irresistible sweet-minty flavors that dance across your palate. Crisp, delicate cookie shells cradle rich peppermint cream, promising delightful moments of seasonal indulgence you’ll savor with pure joy.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cookies:

• 1 cup (227 grams) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2 ½ cups (313 grams) all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Red gel food coloring

Filling:

• ½ cup (114 grams) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (240 grams) powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream (as needed for consistency)

Garnish:

• Crushed peppermint candies (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Craft the Dough Base: Cream together butter and sugar until airy and whipped. Incorporate egg, vanilla, and peppermint extracts, blending thoroughly. Sift flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate vessel, then gradually fold into the wet mixture until a cohesive dough emerges.
2. Create Dramatic Striped Pattern: Partition dough into two equal portions. Infuse one section with vibrant red gel coloring, kneading until uniformly pigmented. Roll both color variants into thin rectangular sheets with consistent thickness.
3. Construct Layered Design: Carefully overlay plain and crimson dough layers. Gently compress with rolling pin to fuse sections. Slice into precise, slender strips and interweave strategically, alternating colors to generate mesmerizing striped configuration.
4. Chill and Prepare: Refrigerate layered dough for approximately half an hour to solidify structure. Preheat oven to moderate temperature.
5. Slice and Bake: Extract chilled dough and cut into delicate rounds. Arrange on parchment-lined baking sheets, maintaining adequate spacing. Bake until edges turn golden and firm.
6. Whip Decadent Filling: Transform butter into silky smooth base. Gradually integrate powdered sugar and peppermint extract. Adjust consistency with measured cream splashes until filling reaches perfect spreadable texture.
7. Assemble Elegant Sandwich Cookies: Generously spread peppermint cream between two complementary cookie surfaces. Optional: Embellish edges with crushed peppermint candy for additional festive flair.

Notes

• Ensure butter is softened at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother cookie dough texture.
• Use gel food coloring for vibrant, even color without altering the dough’s consistency.
• Chill the dough thoroughly to prevent spreading and maintain the precise striped pattern during baking.
• For gluten-free variations, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Work quickly when stacking and pressing dough strips to maintain clean, crisp stripe definition.
• Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
• Rotate baking sheets midway through cooking for uniform color and texture.
• Store cookies in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper to preserve crispness.
• Create dairy-free filling by using plant-based butter and coconut cream alternatives.
• Use a sharp, thin knife for precise cookie slicing to maintain uniform thickness.
• Allow cookies to cool completely before filling to prevent filling from melting.
• Experiment with different extract flavors like almond or orange for unique variations.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 24
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 50 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 20 mg