Sugar Free Peppermint candy Shortbread Cookies | Low-Carb Holiday Treat in 2024

Discover a delightful recipe for sugar free peppermint candy shortbread cookies perfect for the holiday season. Gluten-free, low-carb, and diabetic-friendly, these cookies offer a burst of peppermint flavor with every bite. Enjoy a guilt-free treat that’s easy to make and delicious!

sugar free peppermint candy Shortbread Cookies: A Delicious Low-Carb Holiday Treat

Introduction

The holiday season is the perfect time to indulge in sweet treats, but for those watching their sugar intake, it can be challenging to find satisfying options. If you’re looking for a festive dessert that won’t spike your blood sugar, these sugar-free peppermint shortbread cookies are the answer. Made with a blend of almond flour, sugar free peppermint candy substitutes, and a hint of peppermint, these cookies are not only diabetic-friendly but also deliciously indulgent. Let’s dive into how to create this guilt-free holiday delight!

Why These Cookies Are Perfect for the Holidays

These cookies are ideal for anyone following a low-carb or gluten-free diet. They boast a rich buttery flavor, enhanced by a refreshing burst of peppermint. With only a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Ingredients Needed

To make these sugar free peppermint candy shortbread cookies, you’ll need:

• Unsalted Butter: Adds a rich, creamy texture to the cookies.
• Almond Flour: A low-carb, gluten-free flour alternative that mimics the texture of traditional shortbread.
• Powdered Sweetener: Choose a sugar-free sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit for a perfectly sweet but sugar-free cookie.
• Peppermint Extract: Provides that classic holiday flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Balances the minty taste with a hint of warmth.
• Crushed Sugar-Free Peppermint Candies: Optional, but adds a festive crunch and extra flavor.

sugar free peppermint candy Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with the powdered sweetener until fluffy. Add the almond flour, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
3. Shape the Dough: Roll the dough into a log shape about 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap it in plastic For maximum firmness, cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least one hour.
4. Slice and Bake: Once chilled, slice the dough into ¼-inch thick rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheet. If using, sprinkle crushed sugar-free peppermint candies on top of each cookie for extra flavor and decoration.
5. Bake: Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake as they can become too hard.
6. Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Recipe Tips for the Perfect Peppermint Shortbread

1. Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is crucial for easy slicing and for the cookies to maintain their shape during baking.
2. Avoid Overbaking: Watch the cookies closely towards the end of baking time. Remove them from the oven as soon as the edges start to turn golden.
3. Customize the Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sweetener to suit your taste. Some may prefer a sweeter cookie, while others may want a more subtle sweetness.

Storage Tips

Store these sugar free peppermint candy shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, place them in a sealed container or freezer bag and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Variations to Try

If you’d like to mix things up, try these variations:

• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted sugar-free chocolate over the cooled cookies for a decadent touch.
• Nutty Delight: Add finely chopped nuts like pecans or almonds to the dough for added texture and flavor.
• Spiced Shortbread: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, spiced twist on the classic.

Benefits of a Low-Carb, sugar free peppermint candy Dessert

Choosing a sugar-free, low-carb dessert means you can indulge without the usual spikes in blood sugar levels. Almond flour provides healthy fats and protein, while sugar-free sweeteners ensure that you enjoy the sweetness without the carbs.

Conclusion

These sugar free peppermint candy shortbread cookies are a festive, flavorful, and healthy addition to your holiday celebrations. They offer all the buttery richness of traditional shortbread, balanced with a refreshing peppermint flavor, making them an excellent choice for those on low-carb or diabetic-friendly diets. Whether you’re baking them for yourself or sharing them as a gift, these cookies are sure to bring holiday cheer to any occasion.

FAQs

1. Can I use coconut flour instead of almond flour?
No, coconut flour is much more absorbent and would alter the texture of the cookies. Stick to almond flour for the best results.

2. Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, you can use your preferred powdered sweetener, like stevia or allulose. Just ensure it’s powdered to blend smoothly into the dough.

3. How long will these cookies last?
They will stay fresh for up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months.

4. Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! Prepare the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic, and refrigerate for up to 48 hours or freeze for longer storage.

5. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly before slicing and baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape.

Enjoy your holiday baking and treat yourself to these delightful sugar-free peppermint shortbread cookies that are sure to become a new seasonal favorite!