Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Delight in the festive spirit with these Peppermint Meltaway Cookies! These cookies are a perfect blend of buttery goodness and refreshing peppermint flavor, making them an ideal treat for holiday gatherings or cozy family nights. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and beautiful frosting are sure to impress your guests, bringing joy to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Melt-in-your-mouth texture: These cookies literally melt away in your mouth, offering a delightful experience with every bite.
• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Festive flavor: The combination of peppermint and buttery sweetness makes these cookies a standout during the holiday season.
• Versatile treats: Perfect for Christmas parties, cookie exchanges, or just a sweet snack at home.
• Attractive presentation: Frosted with crushed peppermint bits, these cookies look as good as they taste.

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Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Peppermint Meltaway Cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric stand mixer
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• 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 for a smooth cookie dough.
• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Baking sheet: Using an ungreased baking sheet ensures even cooking and easy removal of cookies once baked.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients:
– 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
– 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 all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the unsalted butter and powdered sugar until well combined.

Step 3: Add Flavors and Flour Mixture

Mix in the peppermint extract. Then, with the mixer set on low speed, slowly add in the flour mixture. Mix just until combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

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

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out an even tablespoon of dough at a time. Shape it into a ball and transfer to an ungreased baking sheet. Space cookies about 2 inches apart. Keep any dough that won’t be baking chilled.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven until cookies are set and bottoms are lightly golden brown—about 10 to 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: Make the Frosting

In another mixing bowl using an electric stand mixer, cream together the salted butter, half and half, remaining peppermint extract, and additional powdered sugar. Beat until light and fluffy.

Step 8: Frost Each Cookie

Working with one cookie at a time, spread frosting over each cookie. After frosting each cookie, immediately sprinkle on crushed peppermint bits before the frosting sets. Repeat this process with all cookies.

Step 9: Store

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

How to Serve Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are delightful on their own, but serving them in creative ways can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some fun serving suggestions that will impress your guests and make your holiday gatherings even sweeter.

With Hot Cocoa

• Pair these cookies with a warm mug of hot cocoa for a cozy treat. The rich chocolate complements the peppermint flavor perfectly.

On a Dessert Platter

• Serve a variety of cookies, including Peppermint Meltaway Cookies, on a festive dessert platter. This makes for an eye-catching centerpiece at any holiday party.

Crumbled Over Ice Cream

• Crumble the cookies over vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an added crunch and burst of peppermint flavor. This combination is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Gift-Wrapped

• Package these cookies in decorative boxes or bags as holiday gifts. Personalize them with a handwritten note to share the joy of baking during the season.

With a Holiday Cocktail

• Enjoy these meltaway cookies alongside a refreshing holiday cocktail, such as peppermint martinis or spiced apple cider. The flavors will complement each other beautifully.

How to Perfect Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Creating the perfect batch of Peppermint Meltaway Cookies is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your cookies turn out delicious every time.

• Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to chill helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies.
• Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter mixes better with sugar, leading to a lighter texture in your cookies.
• Measure Accurately: Use proper measuring techniques for flour and cornstarch. Too much can lead to dense cookies.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can make your cookies tough.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the oven while baking; pulling the cookies out when they’re lightly golden ensures they stay melt-in-your-mouth soft.
• Add Fresh Peppermint Bits: For an extra burst of flavor and texture, use fresh crushed peppermint bits in both the dough and as topping on the frosting.

Best Side Dishes for Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their festive flavor profile. Here are some great options to consider serving alongside these delightful treats.

1. Hot Cocoa
   A classic winter drink that brings warmth and sweetness, making it a perfect match for your peppermint cookies.

2. Eggnog
   Rich and creamy, eggnog offers a smooth contrast to the meltaway texture of the cookies while adding holiday spirit.

3. Fruit Salad
   A light and refreshing fruit salad balances the sweetness of the cookies and adds a colorful touch to your dessert table.

4. Cheese Platter
   Include various cheeses like brie or goat cheese that can contrast nicely with the sweet flavors of peppermint.

5. Spiced Apple Cider
   Serve warm spiced apple cider for a comforting beverage that pairs well with peppermint flavors during cold months.

6. Chocolate Fondue
   Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip cookie pieces into melted chocolate for an indulgent treat.

7. Mini Cheesecakes
   Offer mini cheesecakes topped with berries; their richness complements the lightness of meltaway cookies beautifully.

8. Sugar Cookies
   Provide classic sugar cookies as another sweet option; their simple flavor allows peppermint to shine without overpowering it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peppermint Meltaway Cookies, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls to ensure perfect results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too long can make the cookies tough. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping the chilling step can lead to cookies that spread too much during baking. Always chill the dough for at least an hour.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can result in unevenly baked cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Skipping the Frosting Step: The frosting adds a delightful touch. Don’t skip this step; it enhances both flavor and presentation.
• Using Old Ingredients: Expired baking soda or stale peppermint extract can impact taste and texture. Always check your ingredients for freshness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Keep cookies separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, covering with a lid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Peppermint Meltaway Cookies:

How do I make my Peppermint Meltaway Cookies more festive?

You can add colorful sprinkles or additional crushed peppermint bits on top of the frosting for a more festive look.

Can I use different extracts instead of peppermint?

Yes! While peppermint is traditional, you can experiment with vanilla or almond extract for a unique flavor twist.

How do I know when my Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are done?

Look for lightly golden bottoms and set tops. They should not be overly brown.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure you have enough space on your baking sheets and that your mixer can handle larger quantities of dough.

Final Thoughts

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any holiday gathering or as a cozy snack at home. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with refreshing peppermint makes them irresistible. You can customize these cookies with various toppings and flavors, so feel free to experiment!