Peppermint Meltaways: A Holiday Delight
Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the holiday season, and Peppermint Meltaways encapsulate that magic perfectly. These delightful cookies offer a tender texture and a refreshing peppermint taste that seems to encapsulate the spirit of festivities. As someone who loves sharing good recipes, I’m thrilled you’re here to explore this treat! To keep the holiday spirit going, don’t forget to subscribe and receive more heartwarming recipes directly to your inbox.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Peppermint Meltaways are an absolute joy to make and eat. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with a pop of peppermint flavor make them irresistible. They’re easy to prepare, leaving you more time to enjoy the season with loved ones. Plus, they’re family-friendly, bringing joy to both young and old.
Ingredients
– 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
– Additional confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Frosting:
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1-1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons milk
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 2 to 3 drops red food coloring
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies for garnish
Necessary Tools
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Baking sheets
– Wire racks
– Small bowl for frosting
– Hand mixer or stand mixer
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
For a twist, try using almond extract in place of peppermint extract. You can also add a dash of vanilla for a complementary flavor. If you’re feeling festive, sprinkle a bit of edible glitter over the cookies for extra sparkle.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Begin by creaming the butter and confectioners’ sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Add in the peppermint extract and mix well.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and cornstarch. Gradually beat this dry mixture into the creamed mixture until well combined.
3. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls, placing them 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets.
4. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly browned. Transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
5. For the frosting, beat the butter in a small bowl until creamy. Gradually mix in the confectioners’ sugar, milk, peppermint extract, and food coloring until smooth.
6. Spread the frosting over each cooled cookie and sprinkle with crushed candies. Allow to set before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these cookies with a cup of hot cocoa or a warm glass of milk. They’re also a perfect addition to any holiday cookie platter.
Pro Tips for Success
Ensure that your butter is thoroughly softened for easy mixing. This will help achieve that light, fluffy texture integral to the cookies. When spreading frosting, be generous – it adds to the meltaway effect!
Storing and Reheating
Store your Peppermint Meltaways in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For an extended shelf life, freeze them in a single layer before transferring to an airtight container or bag.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, the dough can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping.
Q: Can these cookies be made gluten-free?
A: You can try substituting with gluten-free flour, but the texture might slightly change.
Conclusion
Peppermint Meltaways are as charming as they are simple to make. Perfect for the holiday season, these cookies are bound to become a cherished tradition. After baking, feel free to share your results and tag your creations on Instagram – we’d love to see them!
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional values per cookie: Calories: 120 | Fat: 10g | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 1g
