Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Sharing is caring!

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are a delightful treat that encapsulate the essence of festive celebrations and winter warmth. With their soft, buttery texture and invigorating minty flavor, they offer a melt-in-your-mouth experience that leaves a lasting impression. The gentle sweetness combined with the refreshing hint of peppermint makes these cookies a perfect companion for your afternoon tea or holiday gatherings. Whether enjoyed by the fireplace or served at a festive table, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction. Let’s dive into this step-by-step recipe that’s easy to follow and rewarding to make for your loved ones!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the best things about Peppermint Meltaway Cookies is their effortless preparation. With just a few straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch that the entire family will adore. Not only are they quick to make, but they also require minimal ingredients typically found in your pantry, making this recipe accessible to everyone. These cookies are also incredibly versatile: you can bake them for holidays, celebrations, or simply to enjoy a cozy afternoon snack. Their festive flavor profile can instantly elevate any gathering, making them a beloved choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

To make Peppermint Meltaway Cookies, gather the following ingredients that create a symphony of flavors and textures:

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup (16 Tbsp; 226g) unsalted butter, softened: This is the base that gives our cookies a rich, buttery flavor.
• 2/3 cup (80g) confectioners’ sugar: For sweetness and a delightful melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1 egg yolk, at room temperature: Adds richness and moisture.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor complexity.
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract: Infuses the cookies with a refreshing minty taste.
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour: This forms the structure of our cookies.
• 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch: Ensures our cookies are soft and tender.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps our cookies rise slightly.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.

For the Frosting:

• 6 Tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, softened: Provides a creamy base for our frosting.
• 1 and 1/2 cups (180g) confectioners’ sugar: For sweetness and smooth consistency.
• 1–2 Tablespoons milk, at room temperature: Adjusts the frosting consistency.
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Adds depth to the frosting flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract: Intensifies the minty profile of the frosting.
• Optional: 1 drop red or pink food coloring: For festive coloring.
• 1/4 cup (40g) crushed candy canes: Brings a delightful crunch and holiday charm.

Step-by-Step Directions

Creating Peppermint Meltaway Cookies is straightforward. Follow these easy steps to achieve perfect cookies every time:

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and confectioners’ sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, giving your cookies a lovely texture.

2. Add the Egg Yolk and Extracts: Blend in the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Mix until everything is fully combined, and you can smell the delightful mint!

3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually sift in the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Mix until a cohesive dough forms. This dough should be soft but not sticky.

4. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.

5. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

6. Shape the Cookies: Once chilled, roll the dough into 1-inch balls and flatten them slightly. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheets.

7. Bake Until Set: Bake in the preheated oven for 13-14 minutes, until the edges are just set. They may look a bit underbaked in the center, but they will firm up as they cool. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

8. Prepare the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the soft butter with the confectioners’ sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until the mixture is smooth and spreadable.

9. Decorate the Cookies: Once the cookies have cooled completely, frost them generously and sprinkle with crushed candy canes to add a festive touch and crunch.

10. Enjoy or Store: These cookies can be enjoyed right away or stored in an airtight container. They will remain delicious for several days.

Tips & Tricks

Here are a few chef’s secrets to ensure your Peppermint Meltaway Cookies turn out perfectly:

• Butter Temperature Matters: Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. This way, it creams well with the sugar, allowing for the right texture.

• Use Quality Extracts: High-quality vanilla and peppermint extracts can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your cookies.

• Don’t Skip the Chilling: Chilling the dough is essential for maintaining the shape during baking and ensures a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

• Experiment with Toppings: If you want to elevate your peppermint cookies further, consider drizzling them with white chocolate or adding a sprinkle of sea salt after frosting for a sweet-savory contrast.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies can be presented beautifully on a festive platter, perhaps alongside a warm mug of spiced tea or hot chocolate. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience, or serve them as a sweet addition to a holiday cookie exchange. Their minty flavor also complements fresh fruit, such as strawberries or raspberries, creating a lovely balance of flavors.

Nutritional Information

While enjoying Peppermint Meltaway Cookies, remember that indulgence is part of the experience. Each cookie is packed with delight, but moderation is key. These cookies do contain calories primarily from the butter and sugar, so be mindful if you’re watching your intake.

For a general idea:

• Calories per cookie: Approximately 120-150 (depending on size and frosting).
• Nutritional breakdown (per cookie) includes fat, carbohydrates, and sugars, which can vary based on your exact ingredients and serving sizes.

Storing Tips & Variations for Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

To ensure your Peppermint Meltaway Cookies stay fresh longer, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can also be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

You might also consider crafting variations of this classic recipe. For a chocolate mint version, try incorporating cocoa powder into the dough. You may also experiment with different extracts, such as orange or almond, for a unique twist on flavor.

Conclusion for Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Now that you’re equipped with everything you need, it’s time to dive into baking these delectable Peppermint Meltaway Cookies. From their buttery softness to their festive minty sweetness, they are bound to become a favorite in your household. Gather your ingredients, follow this simple recipe, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a delightful experience this season!

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! The dough can be made and chilled ahead of time, or you can bake the cookies and store them for several days.

2. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can be used, it may alter the flavor and texture slightly. For the best results, use unsalted butter as indicated in the recipe.

3. What can I use instead of peppermint extract?
If you’re not a fan of peppermint, consider using almond, vanilla, or even orange extract for a different flavor profile.

4. How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
The edges should be just set and lightly golden when they come out of the oven, and the centers may appear slightly underbaked but will firm up as they cool.

5. How long do these cookies stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container, Peppermint Meltaway Cookies will stay fresh for about 5-7 days at room temperature. They can be frozen for up to 3 months for longer storage.

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Delightful peppermint-infused cookies with a soft, buttery texture perfect for festive celebrations.

• Author: catherine
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 14 minutes
• Total Time: 44 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup (16 Tbsp; 226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2/3 cup (80g) confectioners’ sugar
• 1 egg yolk, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 6 Tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
• 1 and 1/2 cups (180g) confectioners’ sugar (for frosting)
• 1–2 Tablespoons milk, at room temperature (for frosting)
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for frosting)
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (for frosting)
• 1 drop red or pink food coloring (optional)
• 1/4 cup (40g) crushed candy canes (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract, and mix until combined.
3. Gradually sift in the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt to form a cohesive dough.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and flatten slightly on the baking sheets.
7. Bake for 13-14 minutes until edges are set. Cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
8. For frosting, beat butter, confectioners’ sugar, milk, vanilla, and peppermint extract until smooth.
9. Once the cookies cool, frost them and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
10. Enjoy or store in an airtight container.

Notes

Ensure butter is softened but not melted for the right texture. Use quality extracts to enhance flavor.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: 135
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Sharing is caring!