why make this recipe
Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are a delightful treat that brings the magic of the holiday season to your kitchen. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and refreshing peppermint flavor make them perfect for sharing with family and friends. These cookies are easy to make and add a festive touch to any gathering. Plus, they look lovely with a bit of frosting and crushed candy canes on top.
how to make Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
- Pink food coloring (optional)
- 1 cup additional powdered sugar (for frosting)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the peppermint extract.
- Gradually blend in the flour and salt until just combined.
- Stir in crushed candy canes.
- Roll dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
- For the buttercream frosting, whip together softened butter, powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and a few drops of pink food coloring until fluffy.
- Frost the cooled cookies with the peppermint buttercream and top with additional crushed candy canes.
- Enjoy your festive peppermint meltaway cookies!
how to serve Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
Serve these cookies on a festive plate at your next gathering. They pair well with hot cocoa or a warm cup of tea. You can also place them in a decorative tin or box to give as a sweet gift during the holidays.
how to store Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Place the cookies in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to three months. Just remember to let them thaw before serving.
tips to make Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- For a stronger peppermint flavor, feel free to adjust the amount of peppermint extract.
- If you want colorful cookies, add a few drops of pink food coloring to the frosting.
- Keep an eye on the cookies while baking, as oven temperatures can vary.
variation
You can try adding different extracts like vanilla or almond to create unique flavors. Other toppings like chocolate chips or chopped nuts can also be added for variety.
FAQs
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can use margarine, but the texture and flavor might differ slightly.
What can I use if I don’t have peppermint extract?
You can substitute with vanilla extract or leave it out altogether for a different flavor.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The edges should be lightly golden, while the center will remain soft.
Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the peppermint extract.
- Gradually blend in the flour and salt until just combined.
- Stir in crushed candy canes.
- Roll dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
- For the buttercream frosting, whip together softened butter, powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and a few drops of pink food coloring until fluffy.
- Frost the cooled cookies with the peppermint buttercream and top with additional crushed candy canes.