Peppermint Meltaways

The Peppermint Meltaways are a delightful treat that brings back memories of cozy winter evenings spent with family. I remember the first time I made these melt-in-your-mouth cookies; the house filled with a sweet, minty aroma that instantly lifted our spirits. Each bite of these cookies is a nostalgic reminder of the festive holiday season, where every corner of the house sparkles with lights and laughter. They’re perfect for sharing with friends or for enjoying during a quiet night in, making them a staple in my holiday baking repertoire. As the chilly weather sets in, these cookies become a comforting companion, reminding me that the best moments are often shared over a plate of homemade goodies.

Everything You Need for Peppermint Meltaways

When it comes to the ingredients for Peppermint Meltaways, simplicity is key. Each component plays a vital role in creating that classic melt-in-your-mouth texture and refreshing flavor. The combination of unsalted butter and powdered sugar makes for a tender cookie, while the peppermint extract elevates it with a burst of minty freshness. Let’s dive into the ingredients and see how they work together.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: This rich ingredient is essential for creating that creamy texture and buttery flavor.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and contributes to the meltaway effect.
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: Infuses the cookie with a refreshing mint flavor.
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the dough that provides structure.
• 1/2 cup cornstarch: Creates a light and tender texture, enhancing that meltaway quality.
• candy canes for garnish, crushed: Adds a festive touch and a little crunch to each cookie.
• 1 package cream cheese (8 oz): Used in the frosting to create a rich and creamy topping.
• 1/2 cup salted butter, softened: Adds flavor to the frosting, making it irresistibly tasty.
• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted: Sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth texture.
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: Enhances the frosting with minty flavor.

Putting Together Peppermint Meltaways

Making Peppermint Meltaways is a straightforward and rewarding process. As you mix and create, you’ll find that the sweet scent of peppermint fills your kitchen, setting the perfect mood for baking. Let’s get started on this delightful cookie!

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup cornstarch. Stir them together and set this mixture aside. This combination creates the perfect texture for the cookies. The cornstarch helps achieve that signature meltaway quality.
2. In another small mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup unsalted butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer and blend until light and fluffy. This will take about two to three minutes. The mixture should look pale and creamy.
3. Add 1 teaspoon peppermint extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Stir well to incorporate the minty flavor, which is the essence of the Peppermint Meltaways.
4. Gradually add the flour and cornstarch mixture into the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can alter the texture of the cookies.
5. Once the dough comes together, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for one hour. Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
6. After the dough has chilled, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a crucial step as it ensures even baking.
7. Once preheated, roll the dough into balls about 1 to 1-1/2 inches in size. Place them two inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. The spacing allows the cookies to spread without merging into each other.
8. Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges start to lightly turn brown. Keep an eye on them as they can go from perfect to overbaked quickly!
9. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. This allows them to set perfectly and makes frosting them easier.
10. While the cookies are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 package cream cheese and 1/2 cup salted butter. Beat until smooth and creamy.
11. Add 1 teaspoon peppermint extract and gradually mix in 1 cup sifted powdered sugar. Continue to whip until the frosting is light and fluffy.
12. Once the cookies are cool, frost each cookie generously with the peppermint cream cheese frosting.
13. Finally, garnish the frosted cookies with crushed candy canes. This adds a festive flair and extra crunch that elevates the Peppermint Meltaways.

Tips and Tricks about Peppermint Meltaways

As you prepare to make your own Peppermint Meltaways, here are some helpful tips to ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

• Storage: To store leftovers, place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for up to a week, but I find they rarely last that long!
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before rolling and baking.
• Pairing: These cookies pair well with a cup of warm tea or hot chocolate. The minty flavor complements the warmth of the drinks beautifully.
• Variations: Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the frosting for a sweet and salty combination. It can elevate the flavors even more!
• Cookie Size: If you prefer smaller bite-sized cookies, feel free to make them smaller than the suggested size. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.
• Gift Ideas: These cookies make lovely gifts. Consider packaging them in festive boxes with a ribbon for a charming touch during the holiday season.

Perfect Matches for Peppermint Meltaways

Serving Peppermint Meltaways can be as creative as you are. Here are some ideas for occasions and pairings that enhance the enjoyment of these delightful cookies.

• Holiday Gatherings: These cookies are perfect for holiday parties. Set them out on a beautiful platter to impress your guests.
• Gifts for Friends: Package them in decorative tins or boxes to share the joy of baking during the festive season.
• Quiet Evenings: Enjoy them with a cup of hot cocoa or tea while relaxing at home on a chilly evening.
• Seasonal Celebrations: Use these cookies as a sweet treat for other winter celebrations, like New Year’s Eve or winter birthdays.
• Cookie Decorating Parties: Invite friends over for a cookie decorating party where everyone can decorate their Peppermint Meltaways with their favorite toppings.
• Children’s Parties: These cookies are great for kids’ gatherings. They can help with rolling the dough and decorating them, making it a fun activity!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Peppermint Meltaways are a unique holiday treat that combines the richness of buttery cookies with a refreshing peppermint twist. They’re perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying during a quiet moment at home. If you haven’t tried making them yet, I encourage you to give them a go! You’ll create delicious cookies that will instantly become a beloved favorite in your household.

Peppermint Meltaways

The ultimate comfort food for the holidays! These light and refreshing Peppermint Meltaways are a must-try. They melt in your mouth and are topped with creamy frosting and crunchy candy canes. Perfect for sharing or enjoying by yourself, make them tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 16 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 120

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup unsalted butter softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• candy canes for garnish, crushed
• 1 package cream cheese 8 oz.
• 1/2 cup salted butter softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar sifted
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. In a small mixing bowl, combine 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup cornstarch. Stir them together and set this mixture aside. This combination creates the perfect texture for the cookies. The cornstarch helps achieve that signature meltaway quality.
2. In another small mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup unsalted butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer and blend until light and fluffy. This will take about two to three minutes. The mixture should look pale and creamy.
3. Add 1 teaspoon peppermint extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Stir well to incorporate the minty flavor, which is the essence of the Peppermint Meltaways.
4. Gradually add the flour and cornstarch mixture into the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can alter the texture of the cookies.
5. Once the dough comes together, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for one hour. Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
6. After the dough has chilled, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a crucial step as it ensures even baking.
7. Once preheated, roll the dough into balls about 1 to 1-1/2 inches in size. Place them two inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. The spacing allows the cookies to spread without merging into each other.
8. Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges start to lightly turn brown. Keep an eye on them as they can go from perfect to overbaked quickly!
9. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. This allows them to set perfectly and makes frosting them easier.
10. While the cookies are cooling, prepare the frosting. In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 package cream cheese and 1/2 cup salted butter. Beat until smooth and creamy.
11. Add 1 teaspoon peppermint extract and gradually mix in 1 cup sifted powdered sugar. Continue to whip until the frosting is light and fluffy.
12. Once the cookies are cool, frost each cookie generously with the peppermint cream cheese frosting.
13. Finally, garnish the frosted cookies with crushed candy canes. This adds a festive flair and extra crunch that elevates the Peppermint Meltaways.

Notes

• Tip 1: To store leftovers, place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for up to a week, but I find they rarely last that long!
• Tip 2: You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag. When you're ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before rolling and baking.
• Tip 3: These cookies pair well with a cup of hot cocoa or tea. The minty flavor complements the warmth of the drinks beautifully.
• Tip 4: Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the frosting for a sweet and salty combination. It can elevate the flavors even more!
• Tip 5: If you prefer smaller bite-sized cookies, feel free to make them smaller than the suggested size. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.

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Meet Hailey Anderson

My passion is creating food that nourishes your body without sacrificing flavor. I’m our main recipe developer for vibrant salads, smoothies, and feel-good breakfasts. When I’m not blending or chopping, I’m right alongside Brooke and Jenna, helping to cook and test our new dinner and dessert recipes. I’m a firm believer in balance!