Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Delight in the festive spirit with Peppermint Meltaway Cookies! These cookies are a true holiday treat, known for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet peppermint flavor. Perfect for gatherings, cookie swaps, or as a special dessert for any occasion, these cookies will surely become a favorite among family and friends. Their unique combination of buttery goodness and refreshing peppermint makes them stand out during the holiday season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Melt-in-your-mouth texture: These cookies are soft and buttery, providing a delightful sensation with every bite.
• Festive flavor: The refreshing taste of peppermint makes them perfect for winter celebrations.
• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up quickly.
• Versatile decoration: Top with crushed candy canes for a festive touch, or enjoy them plain.
• Perfect for sharing: Make a big batch to share at holiday parties or as gifts!

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To create perfect Peppermint Meltaway Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools to help you through the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric stand mixer: This tool makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a fluffy texture in your cookies.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps keep your workspace organized while preparing different components of the recipe.

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 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 butter and powdered sugar until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures

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

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill until nearly firm, about 1 hour. During the last 15 minutes of chilling, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out even tablespoons of dough, shape into balls, and transfer to an ungreased baking sheet. Space cookies about 2 inches apart. Keep any dough not being used chilled.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven until set with lightly golden bottoms, about 10-13 minutes. Let cool on baking sheet for at least 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

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

Step 8: Frost Each Cookie

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 process with all cookies.

Step 9: Store Your Cookies

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

How to Serve Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Serving Peppermint Meltaway Cookies can enhance their festive appeal and create a delightful experience for your guests. Here are some creative ways to enjoy these sweet treats.

With Hot Chocolate

• Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of hot chocolate for a cozy pairing that enhances the peppermint flavor.

As a Holiday Gift

• Package the cookies in a decorative tin or box with festive wrapping to create a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a colorful dessert platter with other holiday sweets, like brownies and fudge, for an enticing display at parties.

With Ice Cream

• Top vanilla or peppermint ice cream with crumbled cookies for a deliciously unique dessert that combines textures and flavors.

At Cookie Exchanges

• Bring these meltaway cookies to cookie exchanges as they are sure to impress and be a favorite among guests.

How to Perfect Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

To ensure your Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are perfect every time, follow these tips:

• Use Room Temperature Butter: This helps in creating a smooth dough that blends well with the sugar and extracts.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is crucial. It firms up the mixture so the cookies hold their shape while baking.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding flour. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the right temperature; this affects baking times and results.

• Add Peppermint Pieces Last: For maximum crunch, sprinkle crushed peppermint bits on top right after frosting each cookie before it sets.

Best Side Dishes for Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your Peppermint Meltaway Cookies can elevate your dessert table. Here are some great options:

1. Hot Chocolate: A rich, creamy beverage that complements the minty flavor of the cookies beautifully.

2. Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee contrasts nicely with the sweetness of peppermint, creating an enjoyable balance.

3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate between bites of sweet cookies.

4. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese which provide a creamy texture against the crunchy cookies.

5. Spiced Tea: A warm spiced tea can enhance the holiday spirit while serving as a comforting drink with cookies.

6. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy option that adds variety to your dessert offerings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peppermint Meltaway Cookies, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Using cold ingredients – Always use softened butter for the dough. Cold butter can lead to a dense texture instead of the desired meltaway quality.
• Overmixing the dough – Mix just until combined. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, making cookies tough instead of tender.
• Not chilling the dough – Chilling the dough is essential for shaping and helps prevent spreading during baking. Don’t skip this step!
• Ignoring bake time – Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Baking them too long can result in dry cookies, while underbaking can lead to a gooey center.
• Skipping the crushed peppermint – Adding crushed peppermint bits before frosting sets adds texture and flavor. Be sure to sprinkle them on right after frosting!

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 1 week.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

• Freeze cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Reheating Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a soft texture.
• Stovetop – Warm cookies in a skillet over low heat for about 1 minute, covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Peppermint Meltaway Cookies that may help you in your baking journey.

How do I make Peppermint Meltaway Cookies more festive?

You can add food coloring to the frosting or use holiday-themed sprinkles for a cheerful look.

Can I substitute ingredients in Peppermint Meltaway Cookies?

Yes! You can replace all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

How long do Peppermint Meltaway Cookies last?

Stored properly, these cookies will last up to a week at room temperature or three months in the freezer.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky, chill it longer, or add a little more cornstarch or flour until it’s manageable.

Are Peppermint Meltaway Cookies suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! These cookies make wonderful gifts during the holiday season when packaged nicely.

Final Thoughts

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are not just delicious; they bring warmth and joy, especially during the holidays. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and delightful peppermint flavor, they are perfect for sharing and celebrating. Feel free to customize them with different frostings or mix-ins based on your preferences!