Sugar Free Peppermint Shortbread Cookies

Transform your cookie jar with Sugar-Free Peppermint Shortbread Cookies. Savor the holidays with these no sugar added cookies.

A perfect low carb and diabetes friendly guilt-free indulgence for the holiday season.

These delightful low carb peppermint shortbread cookies have become a staple in my kitchen, a perfect blend of buttery richness and refreshing mint that I love to bake regularly.

For more peppermint flavor, explore my kitchen with these Sugar Free Peppermint Mocha Cheesecake Bars and this recipe for a Peppermint Mocha Ice Cream made in the Ninja Creami ice cream machine. If you love ice cream you will also enjoy this holiday-inspired Sugar Free Eggnog Ice Cream recipe. This Sugar Free Oatmeal Cookies recipe is one of my favorites and this new holiday brownie recipe is amazing - Low Carb Gingerbread Brownie.

Why this diabetic friendly peppermint shortbread cookie recipe works

Other holiday recipes you might enjoy

• Sugar Free Shortbread Cookies
• Low Carb Orange Cranberry Shortbread Cookies
• Italian Anise Christmas Cookies
• Keto Eggnog Donuts
• Low Carb Gingerbread Donuts
• Keto Thumbprint Cookies
• Chewy Ginger Molasses Cookies
• Low Carb Eggnog Cupcakes
• Low Carb Cranberry Coconut Squares
• Low Carb Gluten Free Snowball Cookies

Recipe variations

Here are five simple variations to add a twist to your sugar-free peppermint shortbread cookie recipe while maintaining a low-carb approach:

• Chocolate Chip Delight - Add ⅓ cup of sugar-free chocolate chips to the dough for a delightful chocolatey infusion, complementing the minty goodness of the peppermint.
• Nutty Bliss - Incorporate ¼ cup of finely chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) into the dough to introduce a satisfying nutty crunch and an extra layer of flavor.
• Citrus Zest Infusion - Grate the zest of one lemon or orange into the dough to create a citrusy twist, adding a bright and refreshing element that pairs well with the peppermint.
• Coconut Dream - Mix in ⅓ cup of unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical flair, imparting a subtle sweetness and a pleasant chewiness to the cookies.
• Spiced Elegance - Enhance the flavor profile with a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg (about ½ teaspoon each) for a spiced variation that adds warmth and complexity to the cookies.

Ingredients used

The carefully curated selection of components in this recipe seamlessly combines to deliver a delectable, sugar-free, and low-carb peppermint shortbread cookie experience, balancing rich flavors and delightful textures.

• Unsalted Butter (Softened): Adds richness and a buttery flavor to the shortbread, contributing to its classic taste and texture.
• Powdered Sweetener Sugar Substitute: Provides sweetness without sugar, making the cookies suitable for those following a sugar-free or low-carb diet.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a subtle depth, complementing the sweetness of the cookies.
• Almond Flour: Serves as the main flour substitute, contributing to a gluten-free recipe with a texture reminiscent of traditional shortbread.
• Sugar-Free Peppermint Candy (Crushed): Infuses the cookies with a burst of peppermint flavor, making each bite a minty sensation.
• Peppermint Extract: Intensifies the peppermint flavor, creating a refreshing and aromatic quality in the cookies.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors, ensuring a well-rounded taste in the final product.

See the recipe card for quantities.

Steps by step instructions

How to make the sugar free peppermint shortbread cookies?

STEP 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F and then crush the sugar-free peppermint candy by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and gently tapping with a rolling pin or using a food processor for a finer texture.

STEP 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sweetener using an electric mixer, scraping down the sides as needed.

Add the vanilla and peppermint extract, mix again, then incorporate almond flour, salt, and the crushed sugar-free peppermint candy.

STEP 3: Use your hands to continue mixing the dough thoroughly, then shape it into a log. Wrap it in plastic and roll to form a log shape. Freeze for 1 hour.

• STEP 4: Unwrap the cookie dough log, cut it into ¼-inch slices, and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

STEP 5: Sprinkle more crushed candy on top and bake at 350°F for approximately 15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Recipe tips

Here are two tips to ensure these keto peppermint shortbread cookies turn out amazingly well:

• Gentle Slicing for Round Perfection: When cutting the frozen cookie dough, avoid pressing down too hard to maintain the round shape of the cookies during baking. This ensures they keep their intended form and visual appeal. I used a little too much pressure when I cut them this time.
• Mindful Monitoring: Keep a close eye on the cookies while baking. Remove them from the oven when the edges are lightly golden. This prevents over-baking, preserving the delicate balance of flavors and textures in the sugar-free peppermint shortbread cookies.

Storage

• Store the sugar-free peppermint shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week for optimal freshness.
• For longer storage, freeze the cookies by placing them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
• Ensure the container or bag is well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
• To enjoy frozen cookies, thaw them at room temperature, preserving their delicious taste and texture.