Peppermint Meltaways

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies strike the perfect balance between sweet and refreshing, with a light peppermint flavor that awakens the senses without being overpowering. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture is delightful, and they’re incredibly easy to whip up with just a few simple ingredients. These cookies will quickly become a family favorite, delighting both kids and adults alike!

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Frosting:

• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2 to 3 drops red food coloring (optional)
• Crushed peppermint candies for garnish

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Directions

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the peppermint extract for that delightful minty aroma.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture and mix until combined.
3. Chill the Dough: Cover and chill the dough for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the cookies keep their shape when baking.
4. Shape the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets.
5. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 9-11 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly browned. Transfer the cookies to wire racks and let them cool completely.
6. Make the Frosting: In a small bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, milk, peppermint extract, and food coloring (if using), mixing until smooth.
7. Decorate: Spread the frosting over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies. Allow them to set before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 9-11 minutes
• Additional Time: 30 minutes (chilling)
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour

Variations

• Flavor Swaps: If peppermint isn’t your favorite, substitute it with vanilla or almond extract for a different twist.
• Add-ins: Stir in mini chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks to add texture and richness.
• Citrus Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest into the dough for a citrusy kick that pairs beautifully with the peppermint.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Freezing: You can freeze the baked cookies (without frosting) for up to a month. Thaw and frost them when you’re ready to serve.
• Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, heat them in the microwave for about 5-10 seconds before serving.

FAQs

How do I achieve the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture?

The key is to use softened butter and to chill the dough before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and creates that signature meltaway texture.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for a few minutes before shaping and baking.

What if I don’t have peppermint extract?

You can substitute peppermint extract with vanilla or almond extract for a different yet delicious flavor.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can be used, butter provides a richer flavor and better texture for these cookies.

How should I crush the peppermint candies?

Place the candies in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin or mallet until you achieve the desired consistency.

Can I add food coloring to the dough?

Yes, adding a few drops of red or green food coloring to the dough can give the cookies a festive appearance.

How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough is essential to prevent excessive spreading. Ensure the dough is well-chilled before baking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double or triple the ingredients to make a larger batch. Just ensure you have enough baking sheets and oven space.

What type of milk should I use for the frosting?

Whole milk is recommended for a creamier frosting, but you can use any milk you have on hand.

Can I omit the frosting?

The frosting adds sweetness and enhances the peppermint flavor, but the cookies are still delightful without it.

Conclusion

Peppermint Meltaways are more than just cookies; they’re a way to bring a bit of holiday magic into your kitchen. Their delicate texture and refreshing taste make them a festive treat that everyone will love. We’d love to see how your cookies turned out! Share your photos

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