Are you ready to indulge in a sweet, chewy delight? Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are perfect for any festive occasion. With a soft texture and a refreshing burst of mint, these treats are sure to impress your family and friends. In this post, I will guide you step-by-step through the process of creating these tasty cookies. Let’s dive right into the ingredients, tips, and tricks so you can get baking now!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delightfully Buttery: These cookies have a rich, buttery flavor that melts in your mouth, making them perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Festive Peppermint Flavor: The addition of peppermint extract gives these cookies a refreshing taste that captures the essence of the holiday season.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Customizable Garnish: The crushed candy canes not only add a pop of color but also provide a delightful crunch and extra minty flavor.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
- Crushed candy canes (for garnish)
For these delightful cookies, you need a few simple ingredients. Start with one cup of softened unsalted butter. This gives the cookies their rich flavor and helps them melt in your mouth. Next, use half a cup of powdered sugar. This adds sweetness and helps the cookies stay soft.
You will also need one teaspoon of pure peppermint extract. This is key for that fresh, minty taste. For the base, gather one and a half cups of all-purpose flour and half a cup of cornstarch. The cornstarch helps make the cookies extra tender.
Don't forget a quarter teaspoon of salt to balance the sweetness. You will also roll the cookies in half a cup of granulated sugar. This gives them a nice crunch. Finally, have some crushed candy canes ready for garnish. They add a festive touch and extra flavor.
These ingredients come together to create cookies that are chewy, sweet, and perfect for any holiday gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key to baking the cookies evenly. While the oven warms up, take two baking sheets and line them with parchment paper. This will help the cookies not stick, making cleanup easier.
Mixing the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar. Mix until it looks light and fluffy. Next, add 1 teaspoon of pure peppermint extract. This gives your cookies that fresh minty taste.
In another bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of cornstarch, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. This mix adds structure to your cookies. Gradually add this dry mix to your butter mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Don’t over-mix; we want a tender cookie.
Shaping and Baking the Cookies
Now, it’s time to shape the dough. Scoop out tablespoon-sized amounts and roll them into balls. Place these balls on your lined baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between them. This space helps them bake without sticking together.
Next, gently press each ball with the bottom of a glass. This flattens them slightly. After that, sprinkle the tops with granulated sugar for a nice crunch.
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes. Look for edges that are set but soft centers. When they are done, take them out and let them cool on the sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, move the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
For a festive touch, once they are cool, add crushed candy canes on top. This will make your peppermint meltaway cookies look and taste amazing.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get soft and melt-in-your-mouth cookies, butter temperature matters. Always use softened butter. It should feel like a cool pillow when you touch it. If the butter is too cold, your cookies will not spread. Mix the butter and powdered sugar well until it looks fluffy. This step adds air, making the cookies light. Don't overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients. Just mix until you see no flour.
Flavor Tips
Peppermint is key for these cookies. Use pure peppermint extract for the best taste. If you want less peppermint, cut back to half a teaspoon. You can also mix in other flavors like vanilla or almond for a twist. This way, you can make the cookies your own while keeping that minty freshness.
Presentation Ideas
Make your cookies look festive by adding crushed candy canes on top. Once the cookies cool, sprinkle the candy bits for a pop of color. You can also serve them on a pretty plate or in a gift box for friends. These little touches make your peppermint meltaway cookies shine at any gathering.
Pro Tips
- Chill the Dough: For even better flavor and texture, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances the peppermint flavor.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your peppermint extract is fresh for the best flavor. Old extracts can lose their potency, resulting in bland cookies.
- Perfect Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the cookies while they bake. They should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center for that meltaway texture.
- Garnish with Care: Wait until the cookies are completely cooled before adding the crushed candy canes. This prevents the candy from melting and losing its festive crunch.
Variations
Alternative Flavors
You can change the taste of peppermint meltaway cookies by adding chocolate chips or nuts. Chocolate chips bring a rich, sweet flavor that pairs well with peppermint. Try using semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a nice contrast. Nuts like walnuts or pecans add a crunch and extra depth. Chop them finely and mix them in with the dough for a delightful twist.
Gluten-Free Options
If you need a gluten-free version, simply swap out the all-purpose flour. Use gluten-free flour blends that include rice flour or almond flour. These blends work well and help maintain the cookie's texture. You can also try using almond meal for a nutty flavor. Always check the mix you choose to ensure it has a good balance of ingredients.
Fun Holiday Twists
To give your peppermint cookies a festive flair, think about adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. These spices can warm up the flavor and make the cookies feel more seasonal. Just add a pinch of either spice to the dry ingredients. This small change can create a fun twist that surprises your friends and family during the holidays.
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To keep your Peppermint Meltaway Cookies fresh at room temperature, place them in an airtight container. This helps to lock in moisture and flavor. Store them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. They will stay good for about 3 to 5 days. If you stack the cookies, use parchment paper between layers. This prevents them from sticking together.
Long-Term Storage
For long-term storage, you can freeze your cookies. First, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature.
Reheating Instructions
If your cookies become soft after freezing, don’t worry! You can restore their texture easily. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the cookies on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 5 to 7 minutes. This will help them regain their meltaway texture. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature for the best taste!
FAQs
Can I make Peppermint Meltaway Cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these cookies ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for up to a week. If you plan to keep them longer, freeze them. Just place the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to three months when frozen. When you want to enjoy them, let them thaw out at room temperature.
What type of peppermint extract should I use?
I recommend using pure peppermint extract. It gives the best flavor and a nice aroma. Imitation peppermint extract is cheaper, but it can taste artificial. If you use pure peppermint extract, you will get a fresh and clean taste. This is key for a great peppermint meltaway cookie.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
Look for a few signs to tell when your cookies are ready. The edges should be set and slightly firm. The centers will still look soft and may seem underbaked. This is perfect because the cookies will firm up as they cool. If the edges turn golden brown, you may have baked them too long. Aim for just set edges for the best texture.
You have learned how to make Peppermint Meltaway Cookies. We covered ingredients, mixing, and shaping dough. I shared tips for texture and flavor, plus fun variations for your cookies. Store them well for lasting freshness. Now, you can enjoy these festive treats all season long. With practice, you’ll create delicious cookies to delight friends and family. Happy baking!
