Peppermint Meltaways
Step-by-step instructions
- In a mixing bowl, cream together 1/3 cup of unsalted butter with sweetened condensed milk until smooth and creamy.
- Blend in 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract to give your mixture that refreshing flavor.
- Gradually mix in the cornstarch and powdered sugar until a soft, pliable dough forms.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a sheet of wax paper for easy handling.
- In a small saucepan, melt the additional 1 1/2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and heavy cream together. Add the remaining peppermint extract and stir until combined.
- Drizzle this melted mixture over the dough balls, ensuring they get a nice coating, then sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.
- Chill the meltaways in the refrigerator until set before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
These meltaways are a delightful treat on their own, but you can take the presentation up a notch when serving. Try arranging them on a festive platter alongside hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy dessert experience. Another lovely idea is to package them in decorative bags for party favors during holiday gatherings. Pair them with a serving of rich brownies or chocolate cookies for a delightful dessert table sure to please a crowd.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To keep your Peppermint Meltaways fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to two weeks, retaining their delightful flavor and texture. If you wish to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just be sure to layer them between parchment paper to avoid sticking, and thaw completely before serving.
Pro chef tips
- Be gentle when mixing the dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to a tougher texture.
- For an extra kick of peppermint flavor, increase the peppermint extract in the glaze; just be cautious as it can be potent.
- Using a cookie scoop can help create uniform balls, ensuring even cooking and presentation.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with your meltaways! Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet-and-savory contrast or experiment with flavored extracts like vanilla or almond for a unique twist. Alternatively, you can coat them in melted chocolate before sprinkling crushed peppermint on top for an extra indulgent treat.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare Peppermint Meltaways?
The preparation time for these meltaways is around 20-30 minutes, plus an additional hour or two to chill and set.
Can I substitute the sweetened condensed milk?
Yes, you can use evaporated milk or a dairy-free alternative, but the texture and sweetness may be slightly different.
Are Peppermint Meltaways gluten-free?
Yes! The main ingredients are cornstarch and powdered sugar, making this recipe naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your labels to ensure all products used are certified gluten-free.
Now you’ve got everything you need to make festive Peppermint Meltaways a highlight of your holiday celebrations! Enjoy the spirit of the season with this delicious and simple recipe.
Peppermint Meltaways
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, cream together 1/3 cup of unsalted butter with sweetened condensed milk until smooth and creamy.
- Blend in 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract to give your mixture that refreshing flavor.
- Gradually mix in the cornstarch and powdered sugar until a soft, pliable dough forms.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a sheet of wax paper for easy handling.
- In a small saucepan, melt the additional 1 1/2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and heavy cream together.
- Add the remaining peppermint extract and stir until combined.
- Drizzle this melted mixture over the dough balls, ensuring they get a nice coating, then sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.
- Chill the meltaways in the refrigerator until set before serving.
