Hey there, dessert lovers! If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s super easy to whip up, then let me introduce you to my absolute favorite: peppermint meltaways! These delightful little bites are not only refreshing but also a no-bake wonder, making them a perfect choice for anyone—especially if you’re a beginner in the kitchen. I remember the first time I made these; the smell of peppermint filled the air, and I couldn’t wait to share them with friends and family. Trust me, they’re a crowd-pleaser! Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or simply to treat yourself, these meltaways are a must-try. So, let’s dive right in and make some magic happen!
Ingredients List
To make the most delightful peppermint meltaways, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- 2 cups powdered sugar – This is what gives our meltaways that sweet, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – It adds a rich chocolatey flavor that perfectly complements the peppermint.
- 1/4 cup butter, softened – Make sure it’s nice and soft for easy mixing! No one likes chunky butter in their treats.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream – This makes everything creamy and dreamy.
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract – The star of the show! Adjust this if you want a stronger minty flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Just a hint to round out the sweetness.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to making something truly special!
How to Prepare Peppermint Meltaways
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s jump into the fun part—making those delicious peppermint meltaways! Trust me, it’s as easy as 1-2-3, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly they come together. Just follow these simple steps:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of powdered sugar and 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder. Use a whisk to mix them together well—this helps avoid any lumps!
- Add in the 1/4 cup of softened butter. Mix it with your hands or a spatula until the mixture looks crumbly. You want it to be evenly distributed, so don’t rush it!
- Next, pour in 1/4 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until everything is smooth and well combined. If it feels too thick, don’t hesitate to add a little more cream!
- Once your mixture is nice and smooth, pop it into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step is key—it helps the mixture to set and makes it easier to form into balls.
- After chilling, scoop out small portions—about a tablespoon each—and roll them into cute little balls. Place these on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Finally, chill them again for 1 hour to firm up. Once they’re set, you’re ready to serve and enjoy your delightful peppermint meltaways!
And there you have it! Just a few simple steps and you’ll be enjoying these wonderfully refreshing bites in no time. Yum!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Easy: With just a few ingredients and no baking, this recipe is perfect for beginners!
- Refreshing Flavor: The combination of peppermint and chocolate is a match made in dessert heaven.
- No-Bake Delight: These meltaways come together without turning on the oven, making them ideal for warm days.
- Customizable: Feel free to adjust the peppermint extract to suit your taste—make it as minty as you like!
- Perfect for Sharing: They’re great for parties or just to have on hand for a sweet treat anytime.
Tips for Success
To ensure your peppermint meltaways turn out perfectly, here are some handy tips! First, make sure your butter is truly softened—this helps everything mix smoothly without lumps. If the mixture seems too sticky, don’t hesitate to add a touch more powdered sugar to get the right consistency. Remember, chilling is crucial; it not only helps the mixture firm up but also enhances the flavors. If you want a stronger minty kick, feel free to adjust the peppermint extract, but add it gradually to avoid overpowering the chocolate. Lastly, keep your workspace tidy, and enjoy the process—cooking should be fun!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying these peppermint meltaways, it’s nice to know what’s in them! Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values per serving (2 meltaways): about 150 calories, 12g of sugar, and 8g of fat. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so consider them as estimates. If you’re looking to adjust for dietary needs, feel free to tweak the ingredients a bit! Enjoying dessert is all about balance, after all!
FAQ Section
Can I use different extracts?
Absolutely! While peppermint is traditional, you can get creative. Try using almond or orange extract for a unique twist. Just remember to adjust the amount based on your taste preference; some extracts are stronger than others!
How long do these meltaways last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, your peppermint meltaways can last up to two weeks. However, they’re so delicious, I doubt they’ll stick around that long!
Can I freeze peppermint meltaways?
Yes, you can! Just place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they’ll keep for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving, and they’ll be just as delightful as fresh!
What’s the best way to serve them?
Serve your peppermint meltaways chilled for the best taste and texture. They make a fantastic addition to a dessert platter or as a sweet treat with coffee or tea!
Can I add toppings or coatings?
Definitely! You can roll your meltaways in crushed candy canes, chocolate sprinkles, or even dip them in melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat. Get creative and have fun with it!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your peppermint meltaways fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay tasty for up to two weeks, which is perfect if you want to savor them over time! If you have any leftovers (which I doubt, because they’re so good!), just make sure they’re well sealed to prevent them from drying out or absorbing other flavors in the fridge. As for reheating, there’s no need to do that—these meltaways are best enjoyed chilled, straight from the fridge. Just grab and indulge!
For more delicious dessert ideas, check out Christmas dessert recipes made easy!
And if you’re interested in other no-bake treats, you might enjoy peppermint bark cookies as well!
Print
Peppermint Meltaways: 6 Irresistibly Easy Steps to Bliss
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 meltaways 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and refreshing peppermint meltaways recipe perfect for beginners.
Ingredients
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar and cocoa powder.
- Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
- Pour in heavy cream, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract.
- Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Once set, scoop out small portions and roll them into balls.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Chill again for 1 hour to firm up.
- Serve chilled and enjoy your peppermint meltaways.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is softened for easy mixing.
- Adjust peppermint extract to taste if you prefer a stronger flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 meltaways
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: peppermint meltaways, easy dessert, no-bake recipe