Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Delight in the festive flavors of Peppermint Meltaway Cookies! These cookies are the perfect addition to any holiday gathering, bringing a refreshing minty taste and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Their delightful sweetness makes them suitable for Christmas parties, gift-giving, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa. With their unique blend of buttery goodness and peppermint flavor, these cookies will surely stand out on your dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Melt-in-your-mouth texture: These cookies are soft and delicate, offering a unique eating experience.
• Festive flavor: The refreshing peppermint extract brings a holiday spirit to every bite.
• Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfect for sharing: With 29 servings, these cookies are great for parties or as gifts.
• Customizable toppings: Feel free to experiment with different types of crushed candies for decoration!

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Peppermint Meltaway Cookies, you’ll need a few essential tools that will help ensure your baking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Plastic wrap
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: An essential tool for creaming butter and sugar together quickly and efficiently.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining dry ingredients separately before adding them to the wet mixture.

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 Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar until well combined.

Step 3: Add Peppermint Extract

Mix in the peppermint extract. With the mixer set on low speed, slowly add in the flour mixture. Mix just until combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Chill the dough until nearly firm, about 1 hour. During the last 15 minutes of chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 5: Shape Cookies

Scoop out an even tablespoon of dough at a time. Shape it into a ball and transfer it to an ungreased baking sheet, spacing each cookie about two inches apart. Keep any remaining dough chilled.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Bake in a preheated oven until the cookies are set and their bottoms are lightly golden brown, about 10 to 13 minutes. Let cool on the baking sheet for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make Frosting

In another bowl of an electric stand mixer, cream together salted butter, half-and-half, peppermint extract, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 8: Frost Cookies

Working with one cookie at a time, spread frosting over each cookie. Immediately sprinkle crushed peppermint bits on top before the frosting sets. Repeat this with all cookies.

Step 9: Store Cookies

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. Enjoy them fresh or share with friends!

How to Serve Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday gathering or special occasion. Their sweet flavor and soft texture make them perfect for sharing. Here are some creative ways to serve these festive cookies.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a colorful platter, mixing them with other treats like fudge and brownies for variety.

With Hot Chocolate

• Pair these cookies with a warm cup of hot chocolate. The peppermint flavor complements the rich chocolate beautifully.

Wrapped as Gifts

• Pack the cookies in decorative boxes or tins to give as thoughtful gifts during the holiday season.

At Holiday Parties

• Set up a cookie station at your holiday party where guests can choose their favorite meltaway cookies and enjoy them with coffee or tea.

As a Sweet Snack

• Keep some in an airtight container for an easy snack throughout the day. They’re great for satisfying sweet cravings!

With Ice Cream

• Serve these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or mint ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert experience.

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How to Perfect Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

To achieve the best Peppermint Meltaway Cookies, consider these helpful tips for perfect results every time.

• Chill the Dough – Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading during baking, ensuring your cookies maintain their shape.
• Use Fresh Ingredients – Make sure your butter is softened properly and that you use fresh peppermint extract for maximum flavor.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix until just combined to keep the cookies tender; overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.
• Check Oven Temperature – Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature, preventing underbaking or overbaking.
• Frost While Warm – Frosting the cookies while they are still slightly warm helps the frosting adhere better and adds extra flavor.
• Store Properly – Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness and softness.

Best Side Dishes for Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

While Peppermint Meltaway Cookies shine on their own, pairing them with delicious side dishes enhances their charm. Here are some great options:

1. Hot Cocoa – A classic companion; serve it rich and creamy topped with whipped cream or marshmallows.
2. Milk – A simple yet effective pairing that balances sweetness; opt for whole milk or flavored varieties.
3. Fruit Salad – A refreshing side that adds brightness; mix seasonal fruits like berries and citrus.
4. Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese; they provide a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
5. Nuts – Serve assorted nuts such as almonds or walnuts; their crunchiness complements the melt-in-your-mouth texture of the cookies.
6. Coffee – Brewed coffee pairs perfectly; try flavored varieties like hazelnut or vanilla for added depth.
7. Spiced Tea – A warm spiced tea can enhance the peppermint flavor, creating a cozy atmosphere.
8. Ice Cream Sundae Bar – Set up a fun sundae bar where guests can top their ice cream with crushed peppermint bits for added crunch!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peppermint Meltaway Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

• Using the wrong measurements: Always scoop and level your flour and cornstarch for accuracy. This prevents cookies from becoming dry or too crumbly.
• Not chilling the dough properly: Skipping the chilling step may result in cookies spreading too much while baking. Ensure you chill the dough until nearly firm.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined to keep your cookies tender. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.
• Skipping the frosting step: The frosting adds flavor and texture to your meltaway cookies. Don’t skip it; it’s essential for that delightful finish!
• Not using fresh ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and peppermint extract are fresh for the best flavor. Stale ingredients can ruin your cookie’s taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Peppermint Meltaway Cookies in an airtight container.
• They can last up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

• You can freeze these cookies for up to three months.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes. This keeps them soft.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place a pan over low heat and warm cookies briefly, flipping occasionally. This method keeps them soft without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Peppermint Meltaway Cookies.

Can I substitute any ingredients in Peppermint Meltaway Cookies?

Yes! You can use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour or replace peppermint extract with vanilla for a different flavor.

How do I make my Peppermint Meltaway Cookies softer?

Make sure not to overbake them and consider adding an extra tablespoon of butter for added moisture.

What is the best way to crush peppermint bits?

Place candy canes or peppermint candies in a resealable bag and crush them with a rolling pin or meat mallet until they’re finely crushed.

Can Peppermint Meltaway Cookies be made ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and freeze it or bake the cookies and store them in an airtight container before serving.

Final Thoughts

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for any occasion, especially during the holidays. Feel free to customize these treats by adding chocolate chips or adjusting the peppermint flavor to suit your preferences. Enjoy making these delightful cookies that are sure to impress family and friends!