If you’re looking for a cookie that truly captures the magic of the holidays and melts delightfully in your mouth, you’ve got to try this **Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe**. These tender, buttery cookies infused with the refreshing zing of peppermint are perfectly complemented by a sweet, creamy peppermint frosting dusted with crushed candy canes. Every bite is a festive celebration of cool mint and soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that will have your friends and family asking for the recipe again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential to creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture in your Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe. Each component plays a special role—from the creamy butter that gives richness, to the cornstarch which ensures that signature tender meltaway feel, and finally, peppermint extract that adds that unmistakable festive spirit.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides creamy richness and a tender crumb that melts beautifully.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Adds a delicate sweetness and helps keep the cookie light.
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract: Gives that refreshing peppermint flavor that makes these cookies so special.
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cookie, offering structure and balance.
- 1/2 cup cornstarch: Key for that soft, meltaway texture everyone loves.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): Makes the frosting rich and creamy.
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting): Sweetens the frosting to perfection.
- 1-2 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency): Helps achieve the ideal frosting texture.
- 1/4 tsp peppermint extract (for frosting): Strengthens the peppermint notes in the frosting.
- Optional: A few drops of pink or red food coloring: Adds festive color to the frosting if you like.
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes: Provides a crunchy, colorful garnish with added minty punch.
How to Make Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
Start by creaming together 1 cup softened unsalted butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for that soft texture. Next, stir in 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract to infuse your dough with that unmistakable minty aroma. In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour and cornstarch, then gradually add it to the wet ingredients, mixing until you have a soft dough that’s just right for shaping.
Step 2: Shape and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the dough into small balls, around 1-inch in diameter, and place them spaced evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Gently flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass or your palm to form a cookie. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just set—but not browned. This ensures they stay tender and meltaway.
Step 3: Cool the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack after baking. Cooling is important before adding frosting so that it doesn’t melt and creates that lovely creamy topping.
Step 4: Make the Peppermint Frosting
Cream together 1/4 cup softened butter and 1 cup powdered sugar until smooth. Add 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract and mix well. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk, one at a time, until the frosting reaches a smooth but spreadable consistency. If you want a festive touch, gently stir in a few drops of pink or red food coloring.
Step 5: Frost and Garnish
Once the cookies are completely cooled, spread each with a generous dollop of peppermint frosting. Finally, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or broken candy cane pieces over the frosting for a pop of color and refreshing crunch that elevates every bite.
How to Serve Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While crushed peppermint candies are classic, feel free to experiment with finely chopped dark chocolate, edible silver sprinkles, or even a light dusting of powdered sugar on top. These little extras not only make your cookies look gorgeous but can add subtle flavor twists that wow your guests.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with rich, creamy hot cocoa or a frothy peppermint mocha, perfect for cozying up by the fire. For a lighter contrast, serve alongside citrus fruit slices or a refreshing herbal tea to brighten the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Present these peppermint meltaway treats on a festive platter lined with holly leaves or a red-and-white striped napkin for that classic holiday vibe. You can also arrange them in gift boxes or mason jars decorated with ribbon for a thoughtful, homemade gift that any friend or family member will cherish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once unfrosted, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For best results, keep the frosting separate and add just before serving to maintain that fresh, creamy topping and perfect meltaway texture.
Freezing
You can freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and frost fresh when ready to enjoy the full peppermint delight.
Reheating
These meltaway cookies are best served at room temperature and usually don’t require reheating. If desired, a few seconds in the microwave (about 5-7 seconds) can bring softness back, but avoid overheating as the frosting may melt.
FAQs
Can I substitute peppermint extract with peppermint oil?
While peppermint oil is more concentrated, making it strong and sometimes overpowering, you can use it in very small amounts if you’re careful. However, peppermint extract is preferred for a balanced flavor in this Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe.
Why do these cookies melt in your mouth?
The magic comes from the combination of cornstarch with flour and a generous amount of butter, which creates a delicate, tender crumb that dissolves beautifully on your tongue.
Can I use regular granulated sugar instead of powdered sugar?
For the dough and frosting, powdered sugar is essential as it dissolves easily, giving the cookies a smooth texture and the frosting a silky finish that granulated sugar can’t achieve.
Is it necessary to frost these cookies?
While the peppermint frosting adds a lovely flavor and festive look, these cookies are delicious on their own. Frosting is a delightful addition but not crucial if you’re short on time.
How do I make sure the cookies don’t spread too much during baking?
Chilling the dough for about 15-30 minutes before baking helps the cookies keep their shape. Also, avoid over-creaming the butter and sugar, as this can cause excessive spreading.
Final Thoughts
This Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe is truly a holiday treasure that’s both simple to make and impossible to resist. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering or a quiet night in, these peppermint-infused delights will bring joy and warmth with every bite. So go ahead, make a batch, share the sweetness, and let the cozy flavors brighten your day.
Print
Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are delicate, buttery treats infused with refreshing peppermint flavor and topped with crushed peppermint candies for a festive finish. Their light, melt-in-your-mouth texture pairs perfectly with the sweet, cool mint taste, making them an ideal holiday dessert that is both charming and delicious.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
Frosting
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)
- 1/4 tsp peppermint extract
- Optional: Few drops of pink or red food coloring
Topping
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract. Gradually sift in 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup cornstarch, folding gently until the dough comes together without overworking it.
- Shape and Chill: Roll the dough into small balls about 1 inch in diameter and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them slightly apart. Chill the dough balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Bake the Cookies: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Bake the chilled dough balls for 15-18 minutes until the edges are set but not browned. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Make the Frosting: In a bowl, beat together 1/4 cup softened unsalted butter and 1 cup powdered sugar until smooth. Add 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract and 1 to 2 tablespoons milk little by little until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. If desired, mix in a few drops of pink or red food coloring to give a festive hue.
- Assemble and Decorate: Once the cookies have cooled, spread a small amount of peppermint frosting on top of each. Sprinkle generously with crushed peppermint candies or candy canes for a crunchy, minty topping. Allow the frosting to set before serving.
Notes
- Chilling the dough is critical to prevent spreading and to maintain the cookies’ meltaway texture.
- Adjust the milk in the frosting to get a spreadable but firm consistency.
- Use finely crushed peppermint candies for easier spraying, or pulse candy canes in a food processor.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze baked cookies (unfrosted) and frost after thawing.
