Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Delightful and festive, Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are the perfect treat for any holiday gathering. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture paired with a refreshing peppermint flavor makes them irresistible. These cookies are not only easy to make but also versatile enough for Christmas parties, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in. You’ll love how their sweet frosting and crushed peppermint topping add an extra touch of holiday cheer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Melt-in-your-mouth texture: These cookies have a unique consistency that makes them feel heavenly with every bite.
• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, anyone can bake these delicious cookies.
• Perfect for sharing: Great for holiday gifts or potlucks, they’re sure to impress friends and family.
• Customizable flavors: While peppermint is delightful, feel free to experiment with other extracts or toppings for variety.
• Festive appearance: The vibrant crushed peppermint on top adds a beautiful pop of color, making them visually appealing.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience as smooth as possible, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful cookies.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric stand mixer: This tool saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together, ensuring a light and fluffy mixture.
• Mixing bowls: Having various sizes helps you keep your ingredients organized during preparation.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet allows even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.
• Wire rack: This is crucial for cooling cookies without becoming soggy, maintaining their delicate texture.

Ingredients

Delicious melt-in-your-mouth frosted peppermint cookies! Deliciously sweet and perfect for the holidays!

For the Cookies

• 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

For the Frosting

• 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. Set 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 softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Mix in the peppermint extract. Then, set the mixer on low speed and slowly add in the flour mixture. Mix just until combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Chill the dough until nearly firm, about 1 hour. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees during the last 15 minutes of chilling.

Step 5: Shape Cookies

Scoop out one even tablespoon of dough at a time. Shape each portion into a ball before transferring it to an ungreased baking sheet. Space cookies about 2 inches apart. Keep any remaining dough chilled until ready to bake.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven until cookies are set and bottoms are lightly golden brown, about 10 – 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: Prepare Frosting

In another mixing 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 frosting starts to set. Repeat this process for all cookies.

Step 9: Store

Store your delicious Peppermint Meltaway Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh. Enjoy!

How to Serve Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Serving Peppermint Meltaway Cookies is an opportunity to impress your guests during the holiday season. These cookies not only taste delightful but also look festive, making them perfect for various occasions.

With Hot Cocoa

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

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a colorful dessert platter alongside other holiday treats. This creates an inviting display that will catch everyone’s eye.

As Party Favors

• Package individual cookies in decorative bags as party favors. This thoughtful gesture leaves your guests with sweet memories from your gathering.

With Ice Cream

• Serve these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience that balances textures and flavors.

At Holiday Gatherings

• Present the cookies at family gatherings or office parties. Their festive appearance and delicious taste make them a hit among guests of all ages.

How to Perfect Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

To ensure your Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are always a success, follow these helpful tips:

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Chill the dough: Chilling the dough helps in shaping and prevents spreading during baking, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies.
• Measure accurately: Use proper measuring techniques for flour and sugar to maintain the right dough consistency.
• Don’t overmix: Mix the dough just until combined to keep the cookies light and tender.
• Rotate baking sheets: Halfway through baking, rotate your cookie sheets for even cooking and browning.
• Let cool completely: Allow the cookies to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting and ensure better frosting adherence.

Best Side Dishes for Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies can be accompanied by delightful side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some great options:

1. Peppermint Bark
   A rich blend of chocolate and crushed peppermint pieces that pairs wonderfully with these cookies.

2. Fruit Salad
   A fresh fruit salad adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of meltaway cookies, balancing flavors nicely.

3. Cheese Platter
   Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese with crackers; this savory option complements the sweetness effectively.

4. Spiced Nuts
   Roasted spiced nuts provide a crunchy texture and savory flavor, creating an enjoyable mix with sweet cookies.

5. Chocolate Fondue
   Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip their cookies into melted chocolate for an extra indulgence.

6. Coffee or Tea
   Serving coffee or flavored teas enhances the overall experience, allowing guests to enjoy a cozy drink alongside their cookie treat.

7. Mini Fruit Tarts
   These bite-sized desserts add a touch of elegance while offering fruity flavors that contrast nicely with peppermint.

8. Eggnog or Milk Punch
   Festive drinks like eggnog pair beautifully with peppermint flavors, making them ideal for holiday celebrations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking peppermint meltaway cookies can be a joy, but certain mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for:

• Incorrect Measurements: Using inaccurate measurements can lead to cookies that are too dry or too wet. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups correctly, and level your ingredients.

• Skipping Chilling Time: Not chilling the dough can result in cookies spreading too much during baking. Make sure to chill the dough for at least an hour for the best texture.

• Underbaking: Pulling cookies out of the oven too soon may leave them doughy in the center. Bake until the edges are set and slightly golden brown for perfect meltaways.

• Frosting Too Early: Applying frosting before cookies cool completely can cause it to melt off. Wait until they are fully cooled before frosting for a beautiful finish.

• Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Using cold butter instead of softened butter may affect how well the ingredients combine. Ensure your butter is at room temperature before starting.

• Not Using Fresh Peppermint Extract: Old extracts lose flavor and strength. Use fresh peppermint extract for a vibrant taste that shines through in every bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store peppermint meltaway cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen.
• Transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag; they will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for about 10-15 seconds, checking not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place on a pan over low heat, covering with a lid for about 2-3 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about peppermint meltaway cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries answered:

What makes peppermint meltaway cookies different?

Peppermint meltaway cookies are known for their soft, crumbly texture that literally melts in your mouth, enhanced by festive peppermint flavor.

Can I use different extracts?

Yes! You can experiment with other extracts like vanilla or almond if you want to switch up the flavor profile while making peppermint meltaway cookies.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

Look for lightly golden bottoms and set edges. The centers may appear soft but will firm up as they cool.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Adding mini chocolate chips can bring a delightful contrast to the peppermint flavor in your meltaway cookies.

How do I customize my frosting?

Feel free to add food coloring or extra crushed peppermint bits into your frosting for added flair!

Final Thoughts

These peppermint meltaway cookies are not just delicious but also versatile! You can customize them with various toppings or flavors, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you bake them during the holidays or as a sweet treat year-round, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family. Give this recipe a try and enjoy every delightful bite!