Peppermint Meltaways

The aroma of freshly baked cookies fills the air, wrapping around you like a warm hug. It is during the busy season that these little bites of joy come to life. Every year, as the temperatures drop and the world becomes a winter wonderland, I start dreaming about Peppermint Meltaways. The soft, buttery texture combined with that delightful kick of peppermint takes me back to childhood memories spent in the kitchen with my family, rolling dough and sharing stories. These treats are not just cookies; they are the embodiment of connection, comfort, and creativity, reminding us all of the magic that can happen in our own kitchens.

Why Make Peppermint Meltaways

Peppermint Meltaways hold a special place in my heart. Their blissful flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture have made them a staple during the holiday season in our household. These cookies don’t require any complex techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. They are easy enough for my daughters to help with, which transforms what could be a quiet day into moments filled with laughter, flour fights, and covered countertops.

Whenever we make Peppermint Meltaways, I can feel the warmth of togetherness. It’s a tradition that has been passed down through generations, one that connects not only our family but also our friends. I remember the first time I made these cookies. My daughters were tiny, with their little hands reaching up to mix ingredients. Their giggles filled the kitchen as they tried to sneak bites of the dough, and I couldn’t help but join in. Each time we bake them, these cookies serve as a reminder that cooking can be a joyful, family-centered experience, no matter how busy life becomes.

Bringing Peppermint Meltaways to Life

“Every time I stir this pot, it smells just like Sunday at home.”

As I gather the ingredients for my Peppermint Meltaways, I can already envision the beautiful moment when they’re finally ready. The kitchen transforms into a lovely space of warmth and delightful aroma. Butter softening on the counter provides a rich scent that mixes perfectly with the sweet nuttiness of the powdered sugar. From there, the whole process envelops me in memories and feelings of joy.

Before we dive into the kitchen, let’s gather what we’ll need. Cooking is like a dance; having all the right elements lined up makes everything flow beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delightful Peppermint Meltaways, gather the following:

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 peppermint candies
Powdered sugar for dusting

Make sure your butter is truly softened; this will help achieve that light, fluffy texture we want. If time allows, set it out ahead of time. Trust me, it makes a difference. And don’t skip the crushed peppermint; it adds a delightful surprise that really elevates the cookie.

Step-by-Step Directions

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get to the good part: making the Peppermint Meltaways.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the peppermint extract, letting its minty goodness permeate the mixture.
4. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until combined. Be gentle; we want to keep that light texture!
5. Fold in the crushed peppermint candies, feeling the crunch blend in with the dough.
6. Roll the dough into small balls, each about a tablespoon in size, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand, creating a little charm for the oven.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; the smell will guide you!
9. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy your festive treats with loved ones!

These steps are manageable even for the busiest of families. The process is quick and rewarding, making your kitchen feel alive and vibrant.

Serving Peppermint Meltaways at the Family Table

When the Peppermint Meltaways come out of the oven, a wave of warmth greets us as those little sweetnesses cool on the rack. I carefully dust them with powdered sugar, watching the soft white snow settle on each cookie. It makes me think of cozy winter nights spent around the dinner table.

When my family gathers to enjoy these delightful treats, the atmosphere is always filled with chatter and laughter. We often set the table with colorful plates, and I serve the cookies alongside a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Each bite of those meltaways brings smiles to the faces of even the most tired of kids after a long day at school.

The magic of this moment can’t be overstated. It’s about more than just food; it’s about the connections we build through shared experiences. The delighted squeals of my girls as they grab a cookie are the best sound, far sweeter than any dessert.

Storing and Reheating Peppermint Meltaways

If you happen to have any Peppermint Meltaways left (though that’s a big if in our house), storing them is simple. Once they’re completely cooled, place them in an airtight container. They can last up to a week at room temperature.

If you want to keep them longer, feel free to freeze them. I often stack layers of cookies with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. They stay delicious for about a month in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just let them thaw on the counter for a bit. It’s like finding a tiny treasure of home-baked goodness in the freezer.

I have found that flavors deepen overnight, making the cookies even more enjoyable the next day. Sometimes, I even sneak a few for breakfast with my coffee. Don’t worry; it’s a mom’s privilege.

Quick Tips from My Kitchen

Here are a few of my favorite kitchen secrets and tips to help you nail these Peppermint Meltaways every time:

1. Use room temperature butter: This simple trick is key for getting that fluffy texture. If you forget to take it out, you can microwave it for about 10 seconds to soften a bit, just be cautious not to melt it.
2. Swap out extracts: While peppermint is the star, you can also experiment with vanilla or even almond extract for a different flavor. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to your taste.
3. Add chopped nuts: If you want to introduce some texture, incorporate finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. They pair beautifully with the peppermint.
4. Monitor baking time closely: Ovens can vary. Watch for those edges to turn light golden, which means they are ready.
5. Make it festive: For a fun touch, consider rolling the balls in red and green sprinkles during the holidays before baking. It adds a festive flair to your Peppermint Meltaways.

Variations on Peppermint Meltaways

While I love the classic version of Peppermint Meltaways, there are plenty of ways to jazz it up. In our home, we sometimes experiment with ingredients based on what we have in the pantry.

For instance, one day I decided to try a chocolate version. I added a couple of tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder when mixing the flour. The result was a deliciously rich cookie with peppermint that truly felt like a special treat.

Another variation is substituting the crushed peppermint candies with crushed Oreos for a unique twist. It may sound wild, but trust me, it works beautifully!

These little adaptations keep our baking sessions exciting and encourage my daughters to put their creative spin on the recipe.

Peppermint Meltaways

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• Author: cookthatdish
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

Deliciously soft cookies infused with peppermint, perfect for cozy moments and holiday gatherings.

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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 peppermint candies
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the peppermint extract.
4. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until combined.
5. Fold in the crushed peppermint candies.
6. Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Notes

For best results, ensure butter is softened. Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

FAQs About Peppermint Meltaways

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. I often prep it in the morning before the girls wake up, then finish it right before dinner it keeps the flavor fresh and saves time later.

What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough seems dry, a tablespoon of milk can help. Just add a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Can I substitute the peppermint extract?
Absolutely! Vanilla or almond extract works well, but start with less, as these flavors can be stronger. Adjust it according to your taste.

How can I serve these cookies for a gathering?
Consider placing them on a beautiful platter and garnishing with sprigs of mint or chocolate shavings. It adds a touch of elegance to your dessert table.

A Final Thought

Every time I make Peppermint Meltaways, I am reminded of the beauty of home cooking. It’s joyous moments spent with family, laughter that fills the air, and the delightful scents that turn our kitchen into a warm, inviting space. Baking these cookies offers more than just a delicious treat; it creates a canvas for memories.

When life gets busy, it can be tempting to skip out on the kitchen hobbies that bring such joy. Let this recipe be a gentle reminder to you that cooking is a wonderful gift, a chance to foster togetherness, creativity, and comfort within your family. So gather those ingredients, invite your loved ones into the kitchen, and create your own Peppermint Meltaways filled with love, laughter, and warmth.