Peppermint Meltaways

Light and airy, Peppermint Meltaways are the perfect holiday cookies to bring cheer to any gathering. Their buttery texture combined with a refreshing peppermint flavor makes them irresistible. Whether you’re baking for Christmas or simply treating yourself, these meltaways will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. With creamy mint frosting and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes, they stand out as a festive treat that captures the spirit of the season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The simple steps ensure that even novice bakers can whip up these delightful cookies without stress.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a cozy family gathering, these cookies fit right in.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of peppermint and buttery goodness creates a unique taste that keeps everyone coming back for more.
• Beautiful Presentation: With their frosted tops and festive garnish, Peppermint Meltaways look as good as they taste.
• Versatile Treats: Enjoy them as is, or customize the frosting colors to match your celebration theme!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes baking Peppermint Meltaways easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when beating butter and sugar to create a fluffy texture.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl ensures all ingredients mix well without spilling.
• Baking sheets: Provides an even surface for baking, ensuring cookies bake uniformly.

Ingredients

Light, buttery cookies flavored with peppermint and topped with creamy mint frosting and crushed candy canes. A perfect holiday treat.

For the Cookies

• 1 cup butter, softened.
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar.
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract.
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour.
• 1/2 cup cornstarch.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt.

For the Frosting

• 2 tablespoons butter, softened (for frosting).
• 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar (for frosting).
• 2 tablespoons milk.
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (for frosting).
• 2-3 drops red food coloring (optional).

For Garnish

• Crushed peppermint candies for garnish.

How to Make Peppermint Meltaways

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, beat together butter and confectioners’ sugar until fluffy.
2. Mix in the peppermint extract until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the butter mixture until fully incorporated.

Step 2: Chill the Dough

1. Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on baking sheets lined with parchment paper if desired.
3. Bake for 9–11 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly browned.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

1. Once cookies are cool, beat together butter, gradually adding in confectioners’ sugar, milk, peppermint extract, and optional food coloring until smooth.

Step 5: Frost and Garnish

1. Spread a generous amount of frosting on each cooled cookie.
2. Finish by sprinkling crushed peppermint candies on top for that festive touch!

How to Serve Peppermint Meltaways

Serving Peppermint Meltaways is a delightful experience during the holiday season. These light, buttery cookies can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance their festive charm.

With Hot Cocoa

• Pairing these cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa creates a cozy treat perfect for chilly evenings.

As Holiday Gifts

• Wrap Peppermint Meltaways in festive boxes or tins as thoughtful gifts for friends and family during the holidays.

At Parties

• Set up a cookie platter featuring Peppermint Meltaways alongside other holiday treats to impress your guests at parties.

With Ice Cream

• Serve these meltaways with a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream for an extra creamy dessert delight.

How to Perfect Peppermint Meltaways

Perfecting your Peppermint Meltaways can elevate your baking game. Here are some essential tips:

• Use room temperature butter: This ensures that the butter mixes well with sugar, creating a fluffy texture.
• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough helps prevent spreading, leading to perfectly shaped cookies.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on them; they should be just lightly browned on the bottom for the best texture.
• Experiment with extracts: Try using different types of mint extracts for varied flavor profiles.
• Add more candy cane: For extra crunch and peppermint flavor, increase the amount of crushed candy canes on top.

Best Side Dishes for Peppermint Meltaways

When serving Peppermint Meltaways, consider pairing them with complementary side dishes to enhance your dessert table. Here are some excellent options:

1. Peppermint Bark: A classic holiday treat made from layers of chocolate and crushed peppermint candies.
2. Christmas Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits like cranberries, pomegranate seeds, and citrus.
3. Eggnog: A creamy beverage seasoned with nutmeg that pairs beautifully with sweet cookies.
4. Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts with cinnamon and sugar provide a savory contrast to sweet meltaways.
5. Gingerbread Cookies: The warm spices in gingerbread make it an ideal complement to peppermint flavors.
6. Hot Apple Cider: A spiced drink that brings warmth and complements the minty freshness of the meltaways.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peppermint Meltaways, small mistakes can impact the final result. Here are some common errors to watch out for.

• Using cold butter: Cold butter can make it difficult to achieve a fluffy texture. Always ensure your butter is softened before mixing.
• Skipping refrigeration: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies spreading too much while baking. Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes for better shape and texture.
• Overbaking: Baking the cookies too long can make them dry instead of melt-in-your-mouth soft. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven as soon as they turn lightly golden.
• Ignoring frosting consistency: If your frosting is too runny, it won’t stick well to the cookies. Adjust with extra powdered sugar until you reach a thick, spreadable consistency.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping crushed peppermint candies on top can reduce visual appeal and flavor. Don’t forget this simple but impactful step!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Peppermint Meltaways

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Ensure cookies are completely cooled before freezing to maintain texture.

Reheating Peppermint Meltaways

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 5 minutes. This helps restore their original softness.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds on low power. Be cautious not to overheat, as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a covered pan on low heat for a few minutes. This will gently warm them without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Peppermint Meltaways?

Peppermint Meltaways are soft, buttery cookies infused with peppermint flavor, often topped with creamy mint frosting and crushed candy canes.

Can I customize my Peppermint Meltaways?

Yes! You can add various toppings or adjust the peppermint intensity by varying the extract used in both the cookie dough and frosting.

How do I know when my Peppermint Meltaways are done baking?

They should be lightly browned on the bottoms but still soft in the center. Check them around the 9-minute mark.

Are Peppermint Meltaways suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! Their festive appearance and delightful flavor make them a perfect holiday gift or treat.

Can I use other extracts instead of peppermint?

While peppermint is traditional, you could experiment with flavors like vanilla or almond for a different twist!

Final Thoughts

Peppermint Meltaways are a delightful addition to any holiday spread, combining a melt-in-your-mouth texture with refreshing peppermint flavor. They’re versatile enough for customization, whether you want more minty kick or different toppings. Give this recipe a try; your friends and family will love these festive treats!