Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 15.25 ounces white cake mix (432 g)
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons peppermint extract or mint extract
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- green gel food coloring (amount as needed to achieve desired color)
Coating and Topping
- ¼ cup powdered sugar (32 g)
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- red heart-shaped sprinkles or cinnamon to decorate
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Using a hand-held or stand mixer, combine the white cake mix, softened unsalted butter, and eggs. Blend until the mixture is well incorporated and smooth.
- Add Flavorings and Color: Stir in the peppermint or mint extract, vanilla extract, and gradually add green gel food coloring until you achieve the desired bright green shade. Mix on low speed just until combined; the dough should be thick and sticky.
- Prepare Coating: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and cornstarch to create a smooth coating mixture.
- Form and Coat Cookies: Using a 1 ½ tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out dough balls. Roll each ball generously in the powdered sugar and cornstarch mixture to coat them fully. Place the coated dough balls about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow for spreading.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops appear dry but not browned.
- Add Decoration: Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, gently press a red heart-shaped sprinkle onto the center of each cookie so it adheres well.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up and prevents breaking.
Notes
- Use green gel food coloring to achieve a vibrant, festive color without altering the dough consistency.
- Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for a smoother dough.
- Do not overbake; the cookies should appear dry on top but remain soft and tender inside.
- The powdered sugar-cornstarch coating prevents sticking and adds a sweet, delicate crust to the cookies.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days for best freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
