The Story & Intro

There’s something magical about the smell of peppermint shortbread baking in the oven it takes me straight back to the winters of my childhood in Crete. Even though our island is known more for sunshine than snow, my grandmother loved bringing a touch of winter magic into our home. She used to crush peppermint candies with the back of a wooden spoon, laughing at how the pieces flew everywhere. I remember trying to mimic her moves and making a big mess, but she always said that a little chaos made the recipe taste better.

Now, as a 38-year-old mom who still loves cooking with her heart, I’ve brought that same cozy spirit into my own kitchen. Peppermint shortbread has become one of my favorite recipes to bake during the holidays or honestly anytime I want the house to feel warm and festive. Its buttery, crumbly texture mixed with that cool peppermint bite feels like winter wrapped in a cookie.

When I share this recipe, I picture other women doing the same crushing candy canes, laughing at the mess, and feeling the joy of creating something sweet. That’s what food is for me: memories, stories, and flavors that travel far beyond the plate. And this peppermint shortbread is one of those treats that makes every moment feel a little more special.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone who’s just getting comfortable with the oven, this recipe is wonderfully simple, deeply comforting, and full of holiday charm. And if your kitchen gets a bit messy? Well, that just means you’re doing it right.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
• Optional: melted white chocolate for drizzling

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cream the butter and sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until creamy and smooth. This step creates the melt-in-your-mouth foundation that shortbread is famous for.

2. Add vanilla and peppermint

Stir in the vanilla extract and peppermint extract. The balance of warm vanilla and cool peppermint is what gives this peppermint shortbread its irresistible flavor.

3. Mix in the dry ingredients

Add the flour and salt, mixing gently until the dough comes together. It will feel thick and crumbly at first that’s exactly what you want.

4. Fold in crushed peppermint

Add the crushed peppermint candies and fold them into the dough. The pops of red and white make the cookies look wonderfully festive.

5. Shape the dough

Form the dough into a log shape, about 2 inches thick. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape as they bake.

6. Slice and bake

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Slice the dough into rounds about ½ inch thick and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.

7. Optional drizzle

Let the cookies cool completely before drizzling with melted white chocolate for an extra-special touch.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with hot chocolate for the perfect cozy pairing.
• Package the cookies in small tins or bags for holiday gifts.
• Crumble them over vanilla ice cream for a festive dessert.
• Enjoy with afternoon tea for a refreshing twist.

Recipe Card 🍪🎄

⏱️ Time
Prep: 10 min
Chill: 1 hr
Bake: 15 min

🛒 Ingredients

• Butter
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla
• Peppermint extract
• Flour
• Salt
• Crushed peppermint candies
• Optional white chocolate

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cream butter & sugar
2. Add extracts
3. Mix in dry ingredients
4. Fold in peppermint
5. Chill dough
6. Slice & bake
7. Cool & drizzle

📝 Notes

• Don’t overbake shortbread dries out quickly.
• Crushed peppermint can be replaced with mini peppermint chips.
• Use quality butter for the best texture.

🍽️ Nutrition (per cookie)
Approx. 120–140 calories
Carbs: 14g
Fat: 8g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 1g

Conclusion

Peppermint shortbread is one of those recipes that connects generations in the sweetest way. Every time I crush peppermint candies with my daughter, I feel my grandmother’s spirit right beside us. The buttery texture, the refreshing minty flavor, and the festive colors bring joy to any table. Whether you’re making these cookies for a holiday celebration, a cozy winter afternoon, or simply because your heart needs something sweet, this recipe will bring warmth to your home and smiles to the people you love.

Cooking isn’t just about flavors it’s about sharing stories, passing traditions, and making memories that last long after the cookies are gone. I hope this peppermint shortbread recipe becomes part of your story, too.

100-Word Version of the Story

Hi, I’m INAYA from Crete, and peppermint shortbread has always felt like winter magic in my home. My grandmother loved crushing peppermint candies and letting me help, even when I made a mess. Now I bake these cookies with my own daughter, keeping that tradition alive. I love how simple and nostalgic this recipe is crumbly, buttery, and perfectly minty. Every bite brings back memories of laughter and warmth. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or just want something cozy and sweet, peppermint shortbread is a beautiful way to bring joy into your kitchen.