The holidays are a time for joy, celebration, and, of course, indulging in delicious treats. One cookie that perfectly embodies the spirit of the season is the peppermint meltaway cookie. With their creamy texture, sweet and minty flavor, and festive decorations, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household. They are easy to make and sure to impress family and friends. Whether you’re reliving fond holiday memories or creating new ones, peppermint meltaway cookies are your go-to choice.
Why We Love This Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe
The allure of peppermint meltaway cookies lies in their unique blend of flavors and textures. Perfectly soft and buttery, these cookies offer a melt-in-your-mouth experience that is rare to find. The balanced peppermint flavor evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminding many of the festive season’s warmth and cheer.
You don’t need to be a master baker to enjoy making these cookies. The straightforward ingredients and simple steps make this recipe accessible for everyone, from novice bakers to seasoned kitchen pros. The appealing presentation, with their vibrant red and white candy cane topping, adds a festive touch, making them perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply as a treat for yourself.
Ingredients about Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
Creating peppermint meltaway cookies requires just a handful of ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you need to whip up this delightful recipe:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 2/3 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 egg yolk, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 and 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk, at room temperature
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 drop red or pink food coloring (optional)
- 1/4 cup crushed candy canes
How to Make Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Directions
Getting started on these cookies is simple, and you’ll be rewarded with a delightful treat that’s sure to please. Follow these straightforward steps to create your peppermint meltaway cookies:
- Make the Cookie Dough: Start by beating the softened butter in a large bowl until it becomes creamy. Add the confectioners’ sugar and mix until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, carefully incorporate the egg yolk along with the pure vanilla extract and peppermint extract. Beat until everything is well combined. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt, mixing until just combined. Once the dough is ready, chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps to firm up the dough, making it easier to shape.
- Preheat Your Oven: While waiting for the dough to chill, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This step will ensure that your cookies don’t stick and helps with easy cleanup.
- Form the Cookies: Once the dough has chilled, scoop out portions and roll them into balls. Flatten each ball slightly to give it that classic cookie shape. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, allowing some space in between each for spreading.
- Bake: Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for about 13-14 minutes. The cookies should be set but not overly browned; they will continue to firm up as they cool. After baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Make the Buttercream Frosting: While the cookies cool, prepare the frosting. Beat the remaining softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, mixing on low to avoid a sugar cloud. Then incorporate the milk, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until the frosting is smooth. Adjust the consistency if needed by adding a bit more sugar or milk.
- Frost the Cookies: Once your cookies are completely cool, you can begin frosting them with the buttercream. Use a small spatula or a piping bag for a decorative touch. If you choose to use food coloring, mix one drop with the frosting for a hint of festive color. After frosting, generously sprinkle the cookies with crushed candy canes for that extra holiday flair.
- Enjoy: Let your cookies set for a bit before serving. These peppermint meltaway cookies are sure to bring smiles to the faces of your family and friends.
How to Serve Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
Presenting your peppermint meltaway cookies beautifully can add to their charm. Consider serving them on a festive platter, garnished with extra crushed candy canes or chocolate shavings for a touch of elegance. If you’re planning a holiday gathering, they make an excellent addition to the dessert table or cookie platter.
Pairing these cookies with a warm cup of cocoa, coffee, or tea can enhance the experience. The rich buttery flavor and peppermint notes of the cookies complement these warm beverages beautifully.
For a family movie night, arrange the cookies on a special tray for everyone to enjoy while snuggling in. They can also serve as perfect gifts when arranged in a decorative tin, wrapped in cellophane, or presented in a beautiful box. Your loved ones will surely appreciate this delightful homemade gift.
Expert Tips: Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
Creating the perfect peppermint meltaway cookies is a simple task, but with a few expert tips, you can elevate your cookies to a new level:
- Butter Consistency: Ensure that your butter is softened to room temperature. Using cold or melted butter can affect the cookie’s texture and chewiness. Aim for a creamy consistency that easily incorporates with sugars.
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! Chilling the dough helps control the spread of the cookies as they bake, ensuring that they maintain their shape and have that meltaway quality.
- Use Quality Extracts: The flavor of your cookies begins with quality ingredients. Opt for pure vanilla and peppermint extracts for a richer and more authentic flavor profile.
- Adjust for Consistency: If your frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon or two of milk until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too runny, simply incorporate more confectioners’ sugar.
- Decorate Creatively: Play around with decorations. Besides crushed candy canes, you can top the cookies with sprinkles, chocolate drizzles, or colored sugars to customize them for any occasion.
- Be Mindful of Baking Time: Ovens can vary. Keep an eye on your cookies during baking, as they should be slightly set but not overly browned to ensure that meltaway texture.
How to Store Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
Storing your leftover peppermint meltaway cookies properly will keep them fresh and delicious for longer. Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container to maintain their soft texture and keep them away from moisture.
If you’re in a warm climate, consider refrigerating them to prolong freshness. These cookies typically last about a week at room temperature or up to two weeks in the fridge. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you are ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
Variation of Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
While the classic peppermint meltaway cookies are already a delightful treat, you may wish to experiment with different flavor profiles or presentations. Here are some variations to consider:
- Chocolate Mint Meltaways: Incorporate cocoa powder into the cookie dough for a chocolate twist. You can also add dark chocolate chips for an extra decadent treat.
- Sandwich Cookies: Create a delightful cookie sandwich by placing buttercream frosting between two cookies. Roll the edges in crushed candy canes for added texture and visual appeal.
- Matcha Meltaways: For a unique twist, replace some all-purpose flour with matcha powder for a vibrant color and distinct flavor. Matcha and peppermint create a refreshing combination.
- Nutty Peppermint Meltaways: Consider adding finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the dough for added texture and richness.
- Different Frosting Options: Instead of traditional buttercream, try a cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze for a lighter finish.
FAQ
What are peppermint meltaway cookies?
Peppermint meltaway cookies are soft, buttery cookies flavored with peppermint extract. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture comes from the use of cornstarch and careful baking.
How long do peppermint meltaway cookies stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container, these cookies typically remain fresh for about a week at room temperature or up to two weeks in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze peppermint meltaway cookies?
Yes! These cookies freeze well. Ensure they are completely cooled and tightly wrapped before placing them in the freezer. They can be thawed in the refrigerator before serving.
What makes these cookies meltaway?
The combination of softened butter, cornstarch, and the careful baking process gives these cookies their unique melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different extracts, adjust the sweetness in the frosting, or incorporate additional flavors to match your preferences.
Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
Ingredients
For the cookie dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature Ensure butter is at room temperature for best results.
- 2/3 cup confectioners' sugar
- 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the buttercream frosting
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk, at room temperature Adjust for desired consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 drop red or pink food coloring (optional)
- 1/4 cup crushed candy canes For decoration.
Instructions
Preparation
- Beat the softened butter in a large bowl until creamy.
- Add confectioners' sugar and mix until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. Beat until combined.
- Gradually add all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt, mixing until just combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
- Scoop out portions of the dough, roll them into balls, and flatten each slightly.
- Place them on the prepared baking sheets with space in between.
- Bake for about 13-14 minutes until set but not overly browned.
- Cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before transferring.
Frosting
- Beat the remaining softened butter until creamy for the frosting.
- Gradually add confectioners' sugar, mixing on low to prevent a sugar cloud.
- Incorporate milk, vanilla extract, and peppermint extract until smooth.
- Adjust consistency with more sugar or milk if necessary.
Decoration
- Frost cooled cookies using a small spatula or piping bag.
- If using, mix in one drop of food coloring for color.
- Generously sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
Serving
- Let cookies set before serving, optionally pair with cocoa, coffee, or tea.
- For gifts, arrange in decorative tins or boxes.
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