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My kitchen gets this amazing minty smell when I bake these Peppermint Meltaways and I can't help grinning. Every year in December, these treats become my go-to holiday cookie. They actually dissolve right in your mouth with this perfect mix of buttery, sweet flavor and cool mint that just makes you want more. They've turned into such an important part of my Christmas baking that my friends start asking when they'll get some before December even rolls around.
Why Everyone Craves These Treats
These cookies have turned into my secret holiday weapon. The way they feel is just magical - they seriously vanish on your tongue. The mint gives them this wonderful festive touch and the recipe is so easy that even when I don't measure perfectly, they still turn out great. I really like how you can make them for just hanging out at home or wrap them up as presents.
What You'll Need For The Cookies
- Butter: One full cup brought to room temperature makes them vanish like clouds.
- Confectioners' Sugar: Use half a cup for that wonderfully gentle sweetness.
- Peppermint Extract: Only half a teaspoon brings all the holiday feels.
- All-Purpose Flour: One and a quarter cups creates our perfect cookie foundation.
- Cornstarch: A half cup is what makes them dissolve so beautifully.
- Salt: Just a quarter teaspoon brings out all the other flavors.
Creamy Topping That Adds Sparkle
- Butter: Use two tablespoons at room temperature for that smooth base.
- Confectioners' Sugar: One and a half cups gives you that sweet, easy-spread texture.
- Milk: Add two tablespoons to get just the right thickness.
- Peppermint Extract: A quarter teaspoon for that extra mint kick.
- Red Food Coloring: Add a couple drops if you want pretty pink frosting.
- Crushed Peppermints: My favorite way to finish them with color and crunch.
Getting Down To Business
- Start with the foundation:
- Beat your butter and sugar until light and puffy then stir in the yummy peppermint extract.
- Combine with care:
- Stir your dry stuff together then gradually add it in until you've created a nice soft dough.
- Don't rush:
- Cool your dough in the refrigerator it really helps when you're handling it later.
- Form and cook:
- Make small round balls bake them and look for just a hint of gold around the edges.
- Finish with flair:
- As they cool make your frosting. When they're ready add the topping and sprinkle with crushed mints.
Switch Things Up
I always try new things with this recipe. Sometimes I throw in some cocoa for chocolate fans or orange zest for something different. I recently tried mixing candy pieces right into the cookie dough and it makes such fun surprises when you bite into them.
Tricks For Perfect Results
Really make sure your butter gets nice and soft it'll make everything mix together way better. Don't skip cooling the dough even though you might want to it helps the cookies stay in shape. Keep an eye on them while they're baking they should only be slightly golden.
Storage Secrets
These goodies stay tasty for a week when you put them in something airtight. I usually make twice as many and freeze some for later. When I'm giving them away I put them in cute holiday containers or clear bags with festive ribbons.
Pairing Ideas
These cookies taste amazing with a big cup of hot chocolate. I always put them out at Christmas parties next to other sweet treats like chocolate-covered shortbread. Adding some sparkly edible glitter or drizzling chocolate on top makes them look even more special.
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Treasured Holiday Delight
These Peppermint Meltaways have grown into such an important part of my Christmas season. Whenever I bake them they spread happiness whether I'm sharing them at family get-togethers putting them in gift packages or just enjoying them alone with some tea. They're definitely one of those special treats that makes the holidays feel just right.
Recipe FAQs
- → Why is chilling the dough necessary?
Cooling the dough for 30 minutes or more firms it up, so the cookies don’t lose their shape while baking. It also stops the butter from melting too fast and spreading out.
- → Can I bake these in advance?
Absolutely. You can bake ahead and store them in a sealed container. Hold off on adding icing and candy until you’re ready to serve.
- → What’s the role of cornstarch?
Cornstarch makes the texture extra soft and crumbly. It’s the secret to how easy these cookies are to bite into!
- → How do I store these cookies?
Put them in a sealed container on your counter for up to seven days. If you’ve frosted them, separate layers with wax paper to avoid sticking.
- → Can I freeze these cookies for later?
Yes, but only freeze the plain cookies without frosting for up to three months. Before decorating, let them thaw fully to room temperature.