Oh my goodness, have you ever had a peppermint meltaway cookie? They’re these delightful little treasures that are soft, buttery, and just melt in your mouth! I always whip up a batch during the holiday season, and let me tell you, they disappear faster than I can bake them. There’s something so festive about that minty flavor, especially when they’re dusted with powdered sugar, making them look like little snowy treats. Trust me, they’re perfect for holiday gatherings or even just a cozy night in. Plus, the kids love them! So, let’s dive into making these sweet, minty magic cookies together—you’re going to love them!
Ingredients for Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to success! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing. This is key to getting that creamy texture!
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: This gives the cookies that sweet, melt-in-your-mouth quality. Don’t skip the sifting if it’s clumpy!
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and bring out all those yummy flavors.
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: This is where the magic happens! It adds that refreshing minty flavor, so feel free to adjust based on your taste.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This will give the cookies structure. Make sure to spoon and level the flour for accuracy—no one wants dense cookies!
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies: These add a delightful crunch and extra minty kick. You can use candy canes for that classic holiday vibe!
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting: The final touch to make these cookies look like little snowy delights!
How to Prepare Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
Now that you’ve got all your ingredients lined up, it’s time to bring them together for some cookie magic! Don’t worry, it’s super simple. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have those delightful peppermint meltaway cookies ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important because you want the cookies to bake evenly right from the start!
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until it’s nice and creamy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. You want it to be light and fluffy!
- Add the flavor: Next, mix in the salt and peppermint extract. Give it a good stir until everything is well combined. The scent is heavenly at this point!
- Incorporate the flour: Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the cookies to stay light and tender!
- Fold in the candies: Now, gently fold in the crushed peppermint candies. This adds that lovely crunch and bursts of minty flavor!
- Shape the cookies: Using rounded tablespoons of dough, drop them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave some space between each cookie, as they’ll spread just a bit while baking.
- Bake: Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as every oven is a bit different!
- Cool down: Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set perfectly.
- Dust with sugar: Finally, once the cookies are cooled, dust them with extra powdered sugar before serving. It makes them look so festive!
Tips for Success with Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
To make sure your peppermint meltaway cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips that I’ve picked up along the way:
- Butter Matters: Make sure your butter is truly softened. If it’s too cold, you’ll struggle to cream it properly, and if it’s too melted, your cookies may spread too much. Aim for that perfect room temperature!
- Don’t Overmix: When adding the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we definitely want them to melt in your mouth!
- Chill for Perfection: If you find the dough is too soft to handle, don’t hesitate to pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
- Watch the Bake Time: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cookies a minute or two early. You want them to be lightly golden on the bottom, not overdone!
- Experiment with Peppermint: Adjust the amount of peppermint extract based on your preference. If you love mint, go for a bit more; if you prefer a subtle hint, stick to the original measurement!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your baking ingredients, especially the baking powder and extracts, are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
These little tips can make a big difference, so keep them in mind as you bake! You’ll be a peppermint meltaway cookie pro in no time!
Variations on Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to mix things up a bit, I’ve got some fun variations for you! These peppermint meltaway cookies are super adaptable, so you can put your own twist on them. Here are a few ideas to inspire your creativity:
- Chocolate Peppermint: Add some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the dough for a delightful chocolate-peppermint combo. It’s like a match made in heaven!
- Nutty Flavors: Stir in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a little crunch. They add a lovely texture and pair beautifully with the minty flavor.
- Different Extracts: Swap out the peppermint extract for other extracts like almond or vanilla. Just be sure to adjust the amount to keep the flavors balanced!
- Holiday Sprinkles: Before baking, sprinkle some festive holiday sprinkles on top of each cookie. It adds a pop of color and makes them look extra special!
- White Chocolate Drizzle: Once the cookies are cooled, drizzle some melted white chocolate over the top. It adds a beautiful touch and a creamy flavor that pairs perfectly with the mint.
- Crushed Candy Canes: Instead of just mixing in crushed peppermint candies, sprinkle some on top of the cookies right after they come out of the oven for a delightful crunch and extra minty flavor!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your own signature version of these meltaway cookies. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait to hear which ones you try!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve baked these delightful peppermint meltaway cookies, you’ll want to make sure they stay fresh and tasty! Here’s how to store them and keep that melt-in-your-mouth goodness intact:
- Storing: Place your cooled cookies in an airtight container. You can layer them with parchment paper between the layers to prevent them from sticking together. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for about a week—if they last that long!
- Freezing: Want to save some for later? These cookies freeze beautifully! Just make sure they’re completely cooled, then place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight.
- Reheating: If you want to enjoy a warm cookie, I recommend popping them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will give them a lovely, soft texture again. Just be careful not to overheat them, or you might end up with a melted mess!
With these storage tips, you can savor your peppermint meltaway cookies even longer and enjoy that festive flavor whenever the craving strikes!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of these tasty peppermint meltaway cookies. Just a heads up, these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used. Here’s what you can expect per cookie:
- Calories: 100
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 1g
These cookies are a delightful treat, so while they’re not exactly health food, they’re perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Enjoy them in moderation, and don’t forget to share with loved ones! After all, cookies are best when shared, right?
FAQ About Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
Got some questions about making these peppermint meltaway cookies? No worries—I’m here to help! Here are some common questions I’ve come across and the answers that will make your baking experience smooth and sweet:
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While you can use margarine, I really recommend sticking with unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture. Butter gives these cookies their rich, melt-in-your-mouth goodness that margarine just can’t quite match!
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Great question! You’ll want to look for a very light golden color on the bottom of the cookies. They might look a little soft on top, but they’ll firm up as they cool. Just remember, it’s better to slightly underbake than overbake!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
You absolutely can! If you want to save some time, just prepare the dough and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. Just let it thaw in the fridge before baking!
What if I don’t have peppermint extract?
No problem! You can substitute it with other extracts like vanilla or almond for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that you might miss out on that classic minty taste, but it’ll still be delicious!
Can I add chocolate to these cookies?
Oh, yes! Adding chocolate chips or drizzling some melted chocolate on top after baking creates a delightful combo with the mint. It’s a fun twist if you’re feeling a little adventurous!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These cookies come together in just 30 minutes, perfect for when you need a last-minute treat!
- Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: With their soft and buttery goodness, each bite truly melts away, leaving you wanting more.
- Festive Flavor: The refreshing peppermint makes them a holiday favorite, bringing a touch of cheer to any gathering.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids adore helping out in the kitchen, and they’ll love these sweet, minty cookies just as much as the adults!
- Customizable: You can easily switch up the flavors or add fun toppings, making each batch uniquely yours.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Dough can be prepared in advance, and cookies freeze beautifully, so you can always have a stash on hand!
- Beautiful Presentation: A dusting of powdered sugar makes these cookies look as delightful as they taste, perfect for holiday platters.
For more festive recipes, check out Christmas dessert recipes made easy!
Print
Peppermint Meltaway Cookies: 7 Magical Ways to Enjoy
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Peppermint meltaway cookies are soft, minty treats that melt in your mouth. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until creamy.
- Add the salt and peppermint extract, mixing well.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until combined.
- Fold in the crushed peppermint candies.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden on the bottom.
- Let the cookies cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Dust cooled cookies with extra powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Do not overmix the dough to keep cookies light and tender.
- Adjust the amount of peppermint extract to your taste.
- Crushed candy canes work well for decoration and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: peppermint meltaway cookies, holiday cookies, easy cookie recipe
