Peppermint Meltaway Cookies – 7 Steps to Holiday Bliss

Ah, peppermint meltaway cookies! Just the thought of them whisks me back to cozy holiday afternoons spent in my mom’s kitchen, where the air was thick with the sweet scent of butter and sugar mingling with the crisp, refreshing aroma of peppermint. These soft, lofthouse-style treats are a staple in our family during the festive season. I remember rolling out the dough and pressing in those vibrant, crushed peppermint candies, eagerly waiting for them to bake while my siblings and I tried to sneak little spoonfuls of the dough. It’s that magical combination of soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and festive peppermint flavor that makes these cookies so irresistible! Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll feel like you’re wrapped in a warm holiday hug. Whether you’re making them for a gathering or just to enjoy at home, peppermint meltaway cookies are sure to bring joy to your holiday celebrations!

Ingredients List

Let’s gather everything we need to whip up these delightful peppermint meltaway cookies! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: This gives the cookies their sweet, melt-in-your-mouth quality.
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: This is the star of the show, bringing that refreshing minty flavor!
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Essential for structure; sift it if you want an ultra-light texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a touch to enhance the sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: This helps our cookies rise beautifully.
• 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies: Adds a festive crunch and bursts of peppermint in every bite.
• 1 cup white chocolate, melted: For dipping! This creamy coating takes these cookies to the next level.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re all set to create some holiday magic!

How to Prepare Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Now that we’ve got all our ingredients lined up, it’s time to bring them together and create these scrumptious peppermint meltaway cookies! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of holiday happiness in no time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important so that your cookies bake evenly and perfectly!
2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This can take about 2-3 minutes. The fluffiness is key to that meltaway texture!
3. Add peppermint extract: Pour in the teaspoon of peppermint extract and mix until well combined. You’ll love the refreshing scent that fills the kitchen!
4. Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder. This step ensures that your leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those cookies to stay soft and tender!
6. Fold in the crushed peppermint: Gently fold in the 1/4 cup of crushed peppermint candies. This adds not only flavor but also a delightful crunch!
7. Drop the dough: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. They’ll spread a bit while baking, so give them room to breathe!
8. Bake: Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Don’t worry if the centers look a little soft; they’ll firm up as they cool!
9. Cool and dip: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled, dip the tops in melted white chocolate and sprinkle with additional crushed peppermint candies for that festive touch.

And there you have it! Follow these steps, and you’ll be rewarded with deliciously soft peppermint meltaway cookies that are sure to be a hit this holiday season!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to adore these peppermint meltaway cookies! Here’s why you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again:

• Soft and fluffy texture: These cookies practically melt in your mouth, giving you that delightful, tender bite that’s simply irresistible.
• Festive peppermint flavor: The refreshing taste of peppermint shines through, making each cookie feel like a little celebration of the holiday season!
• Easy to make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll whip up a batch in no time—even if you’re a novice baker!
• Perfect for holiday gatherings: Whether you’re hosting a party or bringing treats to share, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike!

Trust me, once you bake these, they’ll become a beloved holiday tradition in your home!

Tips for Success

To ensure your peppermint meltaway cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips that I’ve learned along the way:

• Chill the dough: For best results, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances their meltaway texture.
• Measure accurately: Baking is all about precision, so be sure to measure your ingredients correctly. Use a kitchen scale if you have one—it’s a game changer!
• Keep an eye on baking time: Every oven is different, so start checking your cookies at the 10-minute mark. They should be lightly golden on the edges but still soft in the center.
• Experiment with toppings: If you’re feeling adventurous, try drizzling some melted white chocolate over the cookies instead of dipping them. You could even add festive sprinkles for an extra pop of color!
• Serve with a drink: These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of cocoa or a festive holiday tea. The rich flavors complement each other beautifully!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to baking the most delightful peppermint meltaway cookies that everyone will love!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk about the numbers! While I always say the best part of baking is the joy it brings and not just the calories, it’s good to know what you’re working with. Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these figures are just estimates.

• Calories: 150 per cookie
• Fat: 7g
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 50mg
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

So, whether you’re treating yourself or sharing them with friends and family, you can enjoy these delightful peppermint meltaway cookies with a little knowledge of what’s inside. Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying your peppermint meltaway cookies, the right accompaniments can take the experience to the next level! Here are some delightful ideas to serve alongside these festive treats:

• Hot cocoa: There’s nothing quite like pairing these soft cookies with a warm, rich cup of hot cocoa. The chocolatey goodness complements the peppermint perfectly, creating a cozy pairing that screams holiday cheer!
• Coffee: A nice cup of freshly brewed coffee works wonders with these cookies. The bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness, making each bite even more enjoyable.
• Holiday desserts: Serve the peppermint meltaway cookies alongside other holiday favorites like gingerbread men, sugar cookies, or even a slice of rich chocolate cake. This variety creates a festive dessert platter that guests will love!
• Tea: For a lighter option, pair these cookies with a warm cup of spiced tea or peppermint tea. The flavors will dance together, making your treat time feel extra special.
• Milk: Let’s not forget the classic! A cold glass of milk is always a hit with cookies. It’s a simple, nostalgic pairing that never goes out of style.

Mix and match these options to create your own festive moment! Trust me, your peppermint meltaway cookies will shine even brighter when shared with these delightful beverages and desserts.

FAQ Section

Got questions about making these scrumptious peppermint meltaway cookies? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries and my answers to help you on your baking journey.

• Can I use margarine instead of butter? While you can use margarine, I highly recommend sticking with unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture. Butter gives those meltaway cookies their rich, creamy taste that margarine just can’t match!
• How do I store the cookies? To keep your peppermint meltaway cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay delicious for about a week. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!
• Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Absolutely! You can bake the cookies a few days in advance and store them as mentioned above. You can also prepare the dough ahead of time, chill it, and then bake them fresh when you need them!
• What can I use instead of peppermint extract? If you don’t have peppermint extract, you can substitute it with other extracts like vanilla or almond for a different flavor twist. Just keep in mind that it won’t have that classic peppermint taste, but it’ll still be tasty!
• Can I freeze the cookies? Yes! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just make sure they are completely cooled, then place them in a freezer-safe container with layers separated by parchment paper. They’ll last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature.

Hopefully, these answers will help you bake the best peppermint meltaway cookies ever! If you have more questions, feel free to reach out. Happy baking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, let’s chat about how to keep those delicious peppermint meltaway cookies fresh and soft for as long as possible! Proper storage is key to maintaining their melt-in-your-mouth texture, so here’s how I do it:

• Store in an airtight container: Once your cookies are completely cooled, place them in an airtight container. This prevents them from drying out and keeps them soft. I like to use a container with a tight seal to keep the moisture locked in!
• Layer with parchment paper: If you’re stacking the cookies, place a layer of parchment paper between each row. This helps to prevent sticking and keeps the cookies looking perfect when you’re ready to enjoy them!
• Keep at room temperature: These cookies do best stored at room temperature. They can stay fresh for about a week, but trust me, they likely won’t last that long!
• Freezing for later: If you want to enjoy these treats even longer, you can freeze them! Just make sure they’re completely cooled, then place them in a freezer-safe container with layers separated by parchment paper. They’ll keep well for about 2-3 months.
• Reheating tips: When you’re ready to enjoy a cookie from the freezer, let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you like them warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will bring back that delicious soft texture, making them taste freshly baked!

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll ensure that every bite of your peppermint meltaway cookies is just as delightful as the first! Enjoy every moment of your holiday baking!

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