Delight in the seasonal flavors of Peppermint Meltaway Cookies! These delicious melt-in-your-mouth cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or just a sweet treat at home. The unique combination of buttery goodness and refreshing peppermint makes them an irresistible choice. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas or simply indulging in a festive dessert, these cookies will surely impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Melt-in-your-mouth texture: The addition of cornstarch gives these cookies their signature meltaway consistency.
- Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, baking these cookies is a breeze, even for beginners.
- Versatile treat: Perfect for holidays, parties, or as a delightful gift; they suit various occasions.
- Refreshing flavor: The peppermint extract adds a burst of freshness that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Frosting fun: A creamy frosting topped with crushed peppermint bits makes these cookies visually appealing and delicious.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Peppermint Meltaway Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures your baking process goes smoothly and results in perfect cookies every time.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Electric stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Baking sheets
- Plastic wrap
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric stand mixer: This tool makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, resulting in a light texture.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without spills or messes.
- Baking sheets: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.
Ingredients
Delicious melt-in-your-mouth frosted peppermint cookies! Deliciously sweet and perfect for the holidays!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/4 cups (178g) all-purpose flour (scoop and level)
– 1/2 cup (68g) cornstarch (scoop and level)
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (68g) powdered sugar
– 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
– 2 Tbsp (28g) salted butter, softened
– 2 Tbsp half and half
– 1/4 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 1/2 cups (200g) powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup (42g) finely crushed peppermint bits or candy canes
How to Make Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the unsalted butter and powdered sugar. Mix until well combined and fluffy.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Mix in the first portion of peppermint extract. With the mixer set on low speed, gradually add in the flour mixture. Mix just until everything is combined; avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator until the dough is nearly firm, about one hour. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees during the last 15 minutes of chilling.
Step 5: Shape Cookies
Scoop out even tablespoons of dough and shape them into balls. Transfer each ball to an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Keep any remaining dough chilled while you bake.
Step 6: Bake Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven until set with lightly golden bottoms, about 10 to 13 minutes. Allow cooling on the baking sheet for at least ten minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare Frosting
In an electric stand mixer bowl, cream together the remaining salted butter, half and half, second portion of peppermint extract, and remaining powdered sugar. Mix until light and fluffy.
Step 8: Frost Cookies
Spread frosting over each cooled cookie one at a time. Immediately sprinkle crushed peppermint bits on top before frosting sets. Repeat this process for all cookies.
Step 9: Store Your Cookies
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious Peppermint Meltaway Cookies!
How to Serve Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion, especially during the holiday season. Here are some fun serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.
With a Warm Beverage
- Hot Cocoa: Pair these cookies with a rich cup of hot cocoa for a cozy winter treat.
- Peppermint Tea: Enjoy the refreshing taste of peppermint tea alongside your cookies for a soothing combination.
As a Festive Dessert Platter
- Cookie Platter: Arrange Peppermint Meltaway Cookies on a festive platter with other holiday cookies for an inviting dessert display.
- Gift Boxes: Package cookies in decorative boxes as homemade gifts for friends and family to spread holiday cheer.
At Holiday Gatherings
- Buffet Style: Set up a dessert table at gatherings with a selection of cookies, including Peppermint Meltaways, for guests to enjoy.
- Cookie Exchange Party: Host or attend a cookie exchange where everyone brings their favorite cookies, including these delightful meltaways.
How to Perfect Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
Making perfect Peppermint Meltaway Cookies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your baking game.
- Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill not only helps maintain the shape but also enhances the flavors.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality butter and pure peppermint extract to ensure the best taste in your cookies.
- Measure Accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure your ingredients are precise, leading to consistent results.
- Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake; they should be lightly golden on the bottom but still soft on top.
- Add Extra Crush: For added texture and flavor, sprinkle more crushed peppermint bits on top of the icing after frosting each cookie.
Best Side Dishes for Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
Peppermint Meltaway Cookies can be paired with various delightful side dishes that complement their sweetness. Here are some excellent choices.
- Chocolate Fondue: Serve warm chocolate fondue for dipping cookies, creating an indulgent dessert experience.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can balance out the sweetness of the cookies while adding freshness.
- Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer a creamy contrast that pairs well with the minty flavor of the cookies.
- Pecan Pie Bars: The nutty flavors of pecan pie bars make them an ideal companion for these sweet treats.
- Spiced Nuts: A bowl of spiced nuts adds crunch and a savory element that complements the sweet meltaways nicely.
- Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Set up an ice cream sundae bar where guests can create their own sundaes alongside your delicious cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Peppermint Meltaway Cookies, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind:
- Skipping the Chilling Step: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Make sure to chill the dough for at least an hour.
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long can make cookies tough instead of melt-in-your-mouth. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
- Incorrect Measurements: Using too much flour or cornstarch can alter the cookie’s texture. Always scoop and level your dry ingredients for accuracy.
- Not Spacing Cookies Properly: If cookies are too close on the baking sheet, they may merge together. Space them at least 2 inches apart for even baking.
- Ignoring Oven Temperature: An oven that’s not preheated can affect the bake time and final texture. Preheat your oven correctly before placing the cookies inside.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Keep cookies layered with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Freezing Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag.
- They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
Reheating Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat each cookie for 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes to warm them gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I ensure my Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are soft?
To keep your cookies soft, do not overbake them. Remove them from the oven when they are just set and lightly golden on the bottom.
Can I use other extracts besides peppermint?
Yes! You can experiment with vanilla or almond extract if you want different flavors in your meltaway cookies.
What if I don’t have cornstarch?
If you don’t have cornstarch, you can substitute it with an equal amount of all-purpose flour. However, this may alter the texture slightly.
How can I customize my Peppermint Meltaway Cookies?
You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or swap peppermint bits with other candies like crushed Oreos or sprinkles for variety.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour to make these Peppermint Meltaway Cookies gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and festive flavor make them a holiday favorite. Feel free to customize them with different flavors or toppings to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delightful treats!
Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
Indulge in the festive delight of Peppermint Meltaway Cookies, a must-have treat for the holiday season! These cookies are known for their melt-in-your-mouth texture, achieved with a perfect blend of buttery goodness and refreshing peppermint. Ideal for cookie exchanges, holiday gatherings, or simply as a sweet indulgence at home, they feature a creamy frosting adorned with crushed peppermint bits that enhance their visual appeal and flavor. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly yet impressive enough to wow your guests. Bring the cheerful spirit of the holidays into your kitchen and enjoy these delightful cookies that capture the essence of winter.
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- 2 tbsp salted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 2 tbsp half and half (for frosting)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 1/4 cup finely crushed peppermint bits
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt; set aside.
- Cream unsalted butter and powdered sugar in an electric mixer until fluffy.
- Mix in peppermint extract, then gradually add dry ingredients until combined.
- Chill dough for one hour in plastic wrap; preheat oven to 350°F during the last minutes.
- Shape dough into balls and place on ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-13 minutes; cool on sheets before transferring to wire racks.
- For frosting, beat salted butter, half and half, peppermint extract, and powdered sugar until fluffy.
- Frost cooled cookies and sprinkle with crushed peppermint bits.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Chill the dough well to maintain shape during baking. Use high-quality ingredients for best flavor. Feel free to substitute peppermint extract with other extracts like vanilla or almond for variety.
