As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies to bring comfort and joy to your home. Peppermint Meltaways are a classic treat that truly embodies the spirit of festive gatherings and cozy moments. With their buttery texture and a refreshing peppermint twist, these cookies are a must-have for any holiday celebration. Looking to make your kitchen smell like the holidays? Subscribe to our newsletter to get this recipe straight to your inbox!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something undeniably magical about these cookies. They’re the perfect balance of sweet and refreshing, with a light peppermint flavor that awakens the senses without being overpowering. The melt-in-your-mouth texture is a delight, and they’re incredibly easy to whip up with just a few simple ingredients. These cookies will quickly become a family favorite, delighting both kids and adults alike!
Ingredients
To make these Peppermint Meltaways, you’ll need the following:
- 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
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 (optional)
- Crushed peppermint candies for garnish
Necessary Tools
To make this recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Baking sheets
- Wire racks
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl for frosting
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Peppermint Meltaways are wonderfully versatile, allowing you to get creative with flavors! If peppermint isn’t your favorite, swap it out for vanilla extract or even a hint of almond extract for a different twist. Want to add some texture? Stir in some mini chocolate chips to make these cookies even more indulgent. For a citrusy kick, try adding a little orange zest to the dough — it pairs beautifully with the peppermint!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get into the fun part! Follow these simple steps to make your Peppermint Meltaways:
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the peppermint extract for that delightful minty aroma.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture and mix until combined.
- Chill the Dough: Cover and chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the cookies keep their shape when baking.
- Shape the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 9-11 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly browned. Transfer the cookies to wire racks and let them cool completely.
- Make the Frosting: In a small bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, milk, peppermint extract, and food coloring (if using), mixing until smooth.
- Decorate: Spread the frosting over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies. Allow them to set before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Peppermint Meltaways are the perfect match for a steaming mug of hot cocoa or a festive peppermint-flavored tea. They also make a lovely addition to a holiday dessert platter or a homemade gift box for friends and family.
Pro Tips for Success
- Softened Butter is Key: Ensure your butter is at room temperature to make the creaming process easier and smoother.
- Chill Time Matters: Don’t skip chilling the dough! It helps the cookies maintain their shape and creates that signature meltaway texture.
- Perfect Frosting Consistency: For the best frosting, measure your ingredients carefully and adjust with a little extra milk or sugar if needed for the right spreadable consistency.
Storing and Reheating
To keep these Peppermint Meltaways fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to make them ahead, you can freeze the baked cookies (without frosting) for up to a month. Thaw and frost them when you’re ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and freeze it for up to a month. When ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the refrigerator before shaping and baking.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can be used in a pinch, we recommend using butter for the best flavor and texture. Butter gives these cookies their melt-in-your-mouth richness.
What if I don’t have peppermint extract?
You can substitute peppermint extract with vanilla or almond extract for a different yet delicious flavor.
Conclusion
Peppermint Meltaways are more than just cookies; they’re a way to bring a bit of holiday magic into your kitchen. Their delicate texture and refreshing taste make them a festive treat that everyone will love. We’d love to see how your cookies turned out! Leave a review or share your photos with us on Pinterest and Instagram — don’t forget to tag us!
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional values per cookie:
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 35mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Sugars: 9g
- Protein: 1g
Looking for more holiday inspiration? Check out our other festive cookie recipes that are sure to bring warmth and cheer to your season!
Happy baking, and may your holidays be filled with joy and delicious treats!
