The holidays are just around the corner, and you know what that means—time to whip up some delightful treats that make everyone feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Imagine biting into a Peppermint Meltaway, where the cool mint flavor dances on your taste buds while the creamy texture melts in your mouth. These little bites of joy are not just for holiday parties; they’re perfect for cozy nights in with a movie or as a sweet surprise for unexpected guests.
I remember the first time I made these Peppermint Meltaways. My friends were gathered for our annual cookie swap, and I thought, why not bring a little twist? As soon as I unveiled them, the room filled with cheers. spiced cookie variations Everyone couldn’t stop raving about how they were like tiny clouds of peppermint heaven. rich, nutty pumpkin pie Now, they’re my go-to recipe for almost every gathering. So grab your apron and get ready to impress!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Peppermint Meltaways are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy bakers
- The flavor is a delightful balance of creamy and minty that will dazzle your taste buds
- Their lovely white color with crushed peppermint makes them visually stunning and festive
- Versatile enough to enjoy during any season, these meltaways can easily become your new favorite treat!
This recipe is always a hit at family gatherings, with smiles all around as everyone savors the melt-in-your-mouth goodness. fun dessert bars for gatherings.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Unsalted Butter: Use softened butter for easy blending; it helps create that creamy texture we all love.
- Powdered Sugar: This adds sweetness and a smooth finish; don’t skimp on sifting for best results.
- All-Purpose Flour: A must-have for structure; make sure it’s measured correctly to avoid dense meltaways.
- Cornstarch: This ingredient gives them that melt-in-your-mouth quality; it’s key to achieving that dreamy texture.
- Vanilla Extract: Always use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor; it’s worth it!
- Peppermint Extract: Use this to pack a minty punch; adjust based on your preference for intensity.
- Crushed Peppermint Candies: These add both flavor and fun color; crush them into small pieces but not dust!
- Chocolate Chips (optional): For dipping or drizzling; dark chocolate complements the mint perfectly. delicious white chocolate treats.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Workstation: Clear a clean counter space and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will be where all the magic happens without any sticky aftermath.
Mix the Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar until fluffy. You should see a light color change indicating air has been incorporated.
Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in all-purpose flour and cornstarch until fully combined. The dough may look slightly crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
Add Flavorings: Pour in vanilla extract and peppermint extract. Mix until everything is well blended; you should be able to smell that refreshing peppermint aroma wafting through the air.
Shape the Dough: Scoop out small amounts of dough and roll them into balls about one inch in size. Place them on your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each ball.
Bake Until Set : Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes until they are just set but not browned—keep an eye on them!
Let Cool & Decorate!: Once baked, let them cool completely before decorating with melted chocolate or sprinkling with crushed peppermint candies. For more inspiration, check out this No Bake Christmas Peppermint Pie recipe.
Now that you’ve got these delightful Peppermint Meltaways ready to go, share them with friends or keep them all to yourself—no judgment here! Enjoy every last bite! For more inspiration, check out this Peppermint Bark Cheesecake recipe.
You Must Know
- Peppermint Meltaways are not just delicious; they melt in your mouth, leaving a refreshing hint of mint
- These treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a delightful surprise for guests
- Their smooth texture and sweet aroma make them irresistible
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy, then add the peppermint extract before mixing in the dry ingredients. This order ensures a perfectly blended dough.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding crushed candy canes or chocolate chips for extra flavor and crunch. You can also experiment with different extracts like vanilla or almond to switch things up.
Storing & Reheating
Store Peppermint Meltaways in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. They don’t require reheating but can be enjoyed cold for a refreshing treat.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Perfecting your Peppermint Meltaways is easy with these tips!
- Start with room temperature butter to ensure it creams well
- Avoid overmixing once you add the flour to keep them tender
- Lastly, chill the dough briefly before rolling for easier handling
I remember making Peppermint Meltaways for my family’s holiday party. Everyone raved about them, and my cousin even tried to sneak an extra batch home!
FAQ
Can I use other extracts besides peppermint?
Yes, almond or vanilla extracts can provide unique flavor variations.
How do I know when the meltaways are done?
They should be set around the edges but still soft in the center.
Can I freeze Peppermint Meltaways?
Absolutely! They freeze well and can last up to three months in a freezer-safe container.
Delightful Peppermint Meltaways
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
Description
Get ready to indulge in these creamy, melt-in-your-mouth Peppermint Meltaways! Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, these treats combine the refreshing flavor of peppermint with a rich, buttery texture. Easy to make and visually stunning with crushed peppermint candy on top, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Grab your apron and let’s create these festive delights together!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp peppermint extract (adjust for intensity)
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare your workstation by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and powdered sugar until fluffy.
- Gradually mix in flour and cornstarch until well combined; the dough may appear crumbly but should hold when pressed.
- Add vanilla and peppermint extracts; mix until blended thoroughly.
- Roll small amounts of dough (about 1 inch) into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes until just set but not browned.
- Let cool completely before decorating with melted chocolate or crushed peppermint.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 meltaways (20g)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
