Introduction
Indulge in the delightful world of holiday baking with these Peppermint Meltaway Cookies! Each bite is a tender morsel of buttery goodness, enveloped in a refreshing wave of peppermint that truly captures the essence of the season. With their delicate texture and festive flavor, these cookies are perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings or enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa at home. The best part? They come together in a snap!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- Additional powdered sugar for dusting
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cookie release and clean-up.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and utterly inviting.
- Add the salt and peppermint extract, blending until everything is seamlessly combined and the peppermint scent fills your kitchen.
- Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour and cornstarch into the mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms that’s ready to be shaped.
- Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, shape the dough into 1-inch balls. Place these little spheres of joy on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between them.
- Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are just set, with edges that are lightly golden. You want them to be soft and melt-in-your-mouth delicious!
- Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely — if you can resist the temptation to eat them right away!
- Once the cookies are completely cool, give them a light dusting of additional powdered sugar for that perfect festive touch.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of holiday cheer, consider adding crushed candy canes as a sprinkle on top of the cookies just before they cool. This adds a delightful crunch and a burst of color!
If you prefer a stronger peppermint flavor, feel free to adjust the amount of peppermint extract to your liking, but do so gradually to avoid overpowering the other flavors.
Cooking Techniques
These Peppermint Meltaway Cookies utilize the creaming method, where you beat the fat (butter) with sugar until airy, allowing for a tender cookie texture. The addition of cornstarch helps to create that melt-in-your-mouth sensation. For best results, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature to achieve the ideal consistency.
FAQ
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze these cookies either before baking or after they’ve been dusted with powdered sugar. Just layer them between sheets of parchment paper and store them in an airtight container in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw and savor!
What can I substitute for peppermint extract?
If peppermint isn’t your thing, feel free to swap in vanilla extract for a different flavor. You can also use almond extract for a unique twist on the classic sugar cookie flavor!
Conclusion
These Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are a perfect addition to your holiday baking roster, bringing a sprinkle of joy and a hint of nostalgia with every bite. The soft, buttery texture paired with the refreshing peppermint makes them a delightful treat for both young and old. Share them with friends and family, and watch how quickly they disappear. Happy baking!