AFTER-DINNER MINT DELIGHTS

After-Dinner Mint Delights image

I created these because I wanted something different for my cookie baskets at Christmas time. They melt into a deliciously minty taste. In my circle of family and friends, these have become a highly anticipated holiday treat..-Sally Nicosia, Lynn, Massachusetts

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 45m

Yield 4-1/2 dozen.

Number Of Ingredients 11

Ingredients

1 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
1-1/2 teaspoons peppermint extract
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
Green food coloring, optional
2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
GLAZE:
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons shortening
Green pearl dust, optional

Steps:

In a large bowl, cream butter and confectioners' sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the extracts, salt and, if desired, a few drops food coloring. Gradually add flour and mix well., Shape into 1-in. balls; place 2 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets. Using a glass dipped in sugar, flatten to 1/4-in. thickness. Bake at 375° until set, 10-12 minutes. Remove to wire racks to cool completely., In a double boiler or metal bowl over hot water, melt chips and shortening; stir until smooth. Dip cookies in chocolate glaze, allowing excess to drip off. Place on waxed paper until set, refrigerating if necessary. Brush tops with pearl dust. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 90 calories, Fat 6g fat (3g saturated fat), Cholesterol 9mg cholesterol, Sodium 39mg sodium, Carbohydrate 9g carbohydrate (5g sugars, Fiber 1g fiber), Protein 1g protein.