Peppermint Buttercream Frosting for Cookies & Cakes

Peppermint Buttercream Frosting for Cookies & Cakes

Dolce Flav

Servings

12

Prep Time

10 minutes

Category

Oil Soluble Peppermint Flavoring

This peppermint buttercream frosting is light, fluffy, and perfectly minty—made with softened butter, powdered sugar, cream, and a touch of peppermint flavoring for that cool, refreshing holiday taste. The ingredients are whipped together until smooth and airy, creating a pipeable frosting ideal for sugar cookies, chocolate cupcakes, brownies, and festive Christmas cakes. This easy peppermint frosting comes together in minutes and adds the perfect winter-inspired flavor to any dessert.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1–2 teaspoons peppermint flavoring/extract (adjust to taste)
  • 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for balance)
  • Pinch of salt (enhances flavor)
  • Optional: A drop of red gel food coloring for a pink peppermint look

Directions

  1. Beat the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter for 2–3 minutes until creamy and pale.

  2. Add Powdered Sugar: Slowly add powdered sugar, ½ cup at a time, mixing on low speed at first, then medium until fully combined.

  3. Add Peppermint Flavoring: Mix in the peppermint extract and vanilla extract, adjusting the mint strength to your preference.

  4. Adjust Consistency: Add 2–3 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk until the frosting becomes smooth, fluffy, and spreadable.

  5. Add Salt: Add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness and enhance the peppermint flavor.

  6. Optional Coloring: Add a tiny drop of red gel food coloring and mix for a soft pastel pink peppermint shade.

  7. Frost and Serve: Spread or pipe onto cookies, cupcakes, or cakes. Use immediately or chill for 10 minutes for a firmer piping texture.