Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Delight in the festive spirit with these Peppermint Meltaway Cookies! These melt-in-your-mouth delights are not only sweet and creamy but also perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa. Their unique peppermint flavor and soft texture make them a standout treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Christmas, a holiday party, or just a cozy night at home, these cookies fit right in.
• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: The combination of cornstarch and butter creates an irresistibly soft cookie that practically dissolves on your tongue.
• Customizable Frosting: You can easily adjust the peppermint flavor to your liking or use different toppings for variety.
• Great for Gifting: Pack them in decorative boxes as thoughtful gifts for friends and family, spreading joy one cookie at a time.

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Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these delightful cookies, gather your tools and prepare your space. This will ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheet
• Plastic wrap
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric stand mixer: This powerful tool makes it easy to cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
• Mixing bowls: Having various sizes allows you to separate dry and wet ingredients efficiently.
• Baking sheet: A quality baking sheet ensures 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 flour, cornstarch, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 2: Cream the 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 fully combined.

Step 3: Add Flavoring

Mix in the peppermint extract. Then, set the mixer on low speed and gradually add in the flour mixture. Mix just until everything is combined; do not overmix.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap. Chill the dough in the refrigerator until it is nearly firm, about one hour. Preheat your oven to 350°F during the last fifteen minutes of chilling.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out one even tablespoon of dough at a time. Roll it into a ball shape before transferring each ball onto an ungreased baking sheet. Ensure there is at least two inches of space between each cookie.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven until set with lightly golden brown bottoms, approximately ten to thirteen minutes. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for at least ten minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the 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 Each Cookie

Take one cookie at a time and spread frosting over its surface. Immediately sprinkle crushed peppermint bits on top before frosting sets. Repeat this process with all cookies.

Step 9: Store Your Cookies

Once finished, store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness. Enjoy your delicious Peppermint Meltaway Cookies!

How to Serve Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to help you make the most of these tasty cookies.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee – Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Hot Chocolate – Enjoy the sweet contrast of peppermint cookies with creamy hot chocolate.
• Tea – A light herbal tea complements the refreshing flavor of peppermint beautifully.

As Holiday Gifts

• Gift Boxes – Package your cookies in decorative boxes for a thoughtful holiday gift.
• Cookie Jars – Fill jars with peppermint meltaway cookies and tie them with festive ribbons.
• Baked Goods Baskets – Combine these cookies with other homemade treats for an inviting gift basket.

At Parties or Gatherings

• Dessert Table – Feature these cookies on a dessert table alongside other festive sweets.
• Cookie Platter – Create a cookie platter with assorted flavors, highlighting these meltaways as the star.
• Christmas Parties – Serve them at holiday gatherings for a sweet touch that guests will love.

How to Perfect Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Making perfect Peppermint Meltaway Cookies is easier than you think! Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Starting with softened butter helps create a smooth, creamy dough.
• Chill the Dough Properly – Chilling the dough prevents spreading and helps maintain the cookie’s shape during baking.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough – Mix until just combined to keep your cookies tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
• Monitor Baking Time Closely – Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be set but not overbaked, ensuring they stay soft.
• Add Extra Peppermint Flavor – For an intensified taste, consider adding more peppermint extract to the frosting or batter.
• Experiment with Toppings – Try different toppings like chocolate drizzle or crushed nuts for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies can be paired with various side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream – The creaminess of vanilla ice cream balances the minty flavor perfectly.
2. Chocolate Fondue – Dip your peppermint cookies into rich chocolate sauce for an indulgent treat.
3. Fruit Salad – A fresh fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
4. Cheese Platter – Pairing these cookies with soft cheeses adds a savory element that complements their sweetness.
5. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt, granola, and crushed peppermint meltaways for a delightful breakfast option.
6. Milkshake – Blend up a milkshake using vanilla ice cream and crushed peppermint candies for a fun drink pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Peppermint Meltaway Cookies can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common pitfalls is essential for success.

• Incorrect Measurements: Always measure flour and cornstarch accurately. Use the scoop and level method to ensure precise amounts.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mix the dough just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Skipping Chilling Time: Don’t skip the chilling step! This helps the cookies hold their shape during baking. Chill the dough for at least one hour.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F before placing your cookies in. This ensures even baking and perfect texture.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents breakage and allows them to set properly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store peppermint meltaway cookies in an airtight container.
• They will keep fresh for up to a week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag; they can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F. Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat as they may become tough.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet on low heat, covered, for a few minutes until soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Peppermint Meltaway Cookies.

Can I use other extracts besides peppermint?

Yes, you can substitute with vanilla or almond extract for different flavors, but it will change the overall taste.

How do I make the frosting more festive?

Add food coloring or sprinkle extra crushed peppermint bits on top of your frosting for added flair!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, although results may vary slightly.

How long do these cookies last?

Peppermint meltaway cookies stay fresh for about one week in an airtight container at room temperature.

What is the best way to crush peppermint candies?

Place them in a zip-top bag and gently crush with a rolling pin or similar tool until you achieve fine bits.

Final Thoughts

These Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are not only deliciously sweet but also versatile for various occasions. Feel free to customize them with different extracts or toppings. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture makes them irresistible! Try making these delightful treats this holiday season!