Indulge in the delightful flavors of peppermint with these Peppermint Meltaways Cookies. These cookies are not only delicious but also easy to make, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The combination of buttery cookies and refreshing peppermint flavor is a match made in dessert heaven.
- With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these cookies are a convenient option for busy bakers.
- These cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or even as a holiday gift.
Ingredient Notes:
Peppermint Meltaways:
- Unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and flavor to the cookies.
- Powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Peppermint extract: Infuses the cookies with a refreshing minty flavor.
- All-purpose flour: Gives structure to the cookies.
- Cornstarch: Helps create a tender texture.
- Crushed candy canes for garnish: Adds a festive touch to the cookies.
Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Cream cheese, softened: Creates a creamy and tangy frosting base.
- Salted butter, softened: Adds richness to the frosting.
- Powdered sugar, sifted: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- Peppermint extract (added to frosting): Enhances the minty flavor of the frosting.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the peppermint extract and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the flour and cornstarch to the mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
- Shape the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake the cookies in a preheated oven until set and lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool before frosting them with Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting.
- Garnish with crushed candy canes before serving.
Helpful Tips:
- Chill the dough before shaping it into balls for easier handling.
- For a stronger peppermint flavor, add more peppermint extract to the frosting.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use high-quality peppermint extract for a more intense flavor.
- Dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving for an added touch of sweetness.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these Peppermint Meltaways Cookies with a hot cup of cocoa or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store the cookies in a cool, dry place for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven for a few minutes to restore their crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
- Yes, but adjust the amount of salt in the recipe accordingly.
- Can I omit the peppermint extract from the frosting?
- You can, but it will result in a less pronounced mint flavor.
- How long do these cookies stay fresh?
- Properly stored, these cookies can stay fresh for up to a week.
- Can I freeze these cookies?
- Yes, you can freeze the cookies before frosting them for longer storage.
Conclusion:
Experience the joy of baking and indulging in these Peppermint Meltaways Cookies. Whether you’re looking for a festive treat or a sweet gift, these cookies are sure to delight. Give this recipe a try and share your feedback with us!
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Peppermint Meltaways Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Peppermint Meltaways Cookies are light, buttery, and perfectly pepperminty. Topped with a creamy peppermint frosting and crushed candy canes, they are a delightful treat for the holiday season.
Ingredients
Scale
Peppermint Meltaways:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Crushed candy canes for garnish
Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 package cream cheese (8 oz.), softened
- 1/2 cup salted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (added to frosting)
Instructions
- Prepare Peppermint Meltaways: In a mixing bowl, cream butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add peppermint extract. Combine flour and cornstarch, gradually add to creamed mixture. Shape into 1-inch balls, bake at 350°F for 9-11 minutes. Cool on wire racks.
- Make Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting: In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually beat in powdered sugar and peppermint extract until fluffy. Frost cooled cookies and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of peppermint extract to suit your preference.
- For extra festive touch, add green food coloring to the frosting.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 100 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat:
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg