Name: Peppermint Meltaways: Melt-In-Your-Mouth Holiday Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 71 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); ½ cup powdered sugar; ½ cup cornstarch (essential for texture); 1 cup all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon peppermint extract; ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 tablespoon milk (to adjust consistency); 1 cup powdered sugar (add more if too thin); ½ cup crushed peppermint candies (for sprinkling)

As winter approaches, the world outside becomes a wonderland of shimmering snowflakes and a chill in the air, prompting the creation of holiday treats that warm the soul. Enter Peppermint Meltaways, the light and buttery cookies that are really a celebration of festive flavors! Not only do these cookies promise a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience, but they also pair perfectly with a cozy cup of hot cocoa, making them the ultimate comfort food fit for the season. With their creamy peppermint frosting and the crunch of crushed peppermint candies, they’re an eye-catching addition to any holiday cookie tray. Plus, these meltaways can easily adapt to different tastes with simple flavor swaps, making them a versatile favorite for anyone eager to impress family and friends this holiday season. Are you ready to embrace the magic of peppermint? Let’s get started!

Why Are Peppermint Meltaways Irresistible?

Light, Buttery Texture: Each bite of these meltaways offers a delicate balance of buttery goodness that instantly melts in your mouth, providing a luxurious treat that feels indulgent yet comforting.

Festive Flavor Twist: Packed with refreshing peppermint, these cookies bring a joyful taste of the holidays to every gathering, making them the perfect sweet companion for holiday parties or cozy family evenings.

Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delightful cookies ready to impress, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the festive cheer and less time in the kitchen—not to mention they are vegetarian-friendly!

Customizable Delight: Feeling adventurous? Swap the peppermint extract for vanilla or almond for a unique twist that adapts to your flavor preferences, ensuring delightful varieties for everyone!

Perfect for Gifting: Whether in a tin for cookie swaps or neatly packaged for holiday gifts, these peppermint meltaways are a thoughtful and crowd-pleasing present that spreads holiday cheer.

With winter upon us, let the warmth and cheer of Peppermint Meltaways fill your home and heart!

Peppermint Meltaways Ingredients

For the Cookies

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve that tender melt-in-your-mouth texture everyone loves.
Cornstarch – Essential for that delicate, soft texture—don’t skip this ingredient!
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the main structure of these delightful cookies.
Peppermint Extract – Infuses a cool minty flavor; adjust according to your taste (½ tsp in dough, ¼ tsp in frosting).

For the Frosting

Milk – Adds moisture to the frosting; adjust the amount to achieve your desired consistency.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting and helps create that fluffy finish; add more if it’s too thin.

For the Topping

Crushed Peppermint Candies – Sprinkle on top for a festive crunch that enhances the mint flavor of your Peppermint Meltaways.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Meltaways

Step 1: Prep Dough
Begin by creaming 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar in a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed for 3–4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, add in ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract, mixing until well incorporated. This will create a rich foundation for your Peppermint Meltaways.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour and ½ cup of cornstarch until evenly combined. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamy butter mixture, stirring gently using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to tougher cookies instead of the tender meltaways you desire.

Step 3: Chill Dough
Once your dough is mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough not only makes it easier to handle but also helps maintain the perfect shape of your cookies while baking. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s firm enough to roll into balls without sticking to your hands.

Step 4: Bake Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While waiting, roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and arrange them 2 inches apart on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 9–11 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them; you want them to remain soft and tender, encapsulating that melt-in-your-mouth quality your Peppermint Meltaways are known for.

Step 5: Prepare Frosting
While the cookies cool, it’s time to make the frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat ¼ cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 tablespoon of milk. Gradually add 1 cup of powdered sugar, mixing until the frosting is fluffy and smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar if necessary, until it’s thick enough to spread easily on the cookies.

Step 6: Frost Cookies
Once your cookies have completely cooled, spread a generous dollop of the creamy frosting on top of each one. Finally, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over the frosting before it sets. This adds both a festive touch and an extra layer of minty crunch to your delightful Peppermint Meltaways.

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Meltaways are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring the flavors deepen and the dough remains easy to handle. Simply cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap before chilling. If you prefer, you can also bake the cookies ahead of time, letting them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, whip up the frosting and frost the cookies just before serving for that fresh, creamy finish. This strategy not only saves you time but guarantees that your Peppermint Meltaways remain just as delicious and festive!

Peppermint Meltaways: Sweet Twists Await

Feel free to play with this recipe and make it your own, transforming these meltaways into your signature creation!

Vanilla Variation: Swap peppermint extract for vanilla extract for a warm, soothing flavor twist that still delights the senses.
Almond Bliss: Use almond extract instead of peppermint for a nutty aroma, creating a wonderful complement to the cookies’ buttery richness.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy these treats!
Chocolate Drizzle: Add a decadently rich touch by drizzling melted dark chocolate over the frosted cookies—give your meltaways a luxurious finish.
Coconut Flour Twist: Experiment with coconut flour as a flour alternative to impart a subtle coconut flavor, adding a tropical flair to your holiday baking.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the cookie mixture for a surprisingly delightful heat that balances the cool mint.
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans into the dough for added texture and a nutritious touch.
Fruit Flavored: Exchange mint for citrus zest—think lemon or orange—for a refreshing burst of flavor that brightens up your meltaway experience.

With these exciting variations, your Peppermint Meltaways can express every mood and occasion—let your creativity shine! And for more festive inspiration, don’t miss our recipes for holiday cookies and delightful frosting ideas.

What to Serve with Peppermint Meltaways?

As you revel in the magic of the holiday season, consider what delightful treats can accompany these refreshing cookies to create a memorable dessert experience.

Rich Hot Cocoa: A warm, creamy cup of hot cocoa perfectly complements the coolness of peppermint, elevating the meltaways into a cozy dessert.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, creamy texture and sweetness of vanilla ice cream balance the minty cookies, creating a delightful contrast that enhances their flavor.
Fruity Pomegranate Salad: A vibrant pomegranate salad adds a burst of freshness and a touch of tartness, making your holiday spread bright and festive.
Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea harmonize beautifully with the minty cookies, providing a comforting and aromatic pairing for chilly evenings.
Chocolate Drizzled Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels coated in sweet chocolate offers a fabulous texture contrast while the flavors mingle enchantingly.
Peppermint Hot Toddy: For an adult twist, a warm peppermint hot toddy can add a festive kick that enhances the delightful spirit of your dessert table.

These pairings not only enhance the experience of indulging in peppermint meltaways but also celebrate the warmth and joy of the season, making every bite a treat to remember.

Helpful Tricks for Peppermint Meltaways

Chill Dough: Always remember to chill the dough before baking. This prevents cookies from spreading too much and helps them maintain their shape.
Use Unsalted Butter: Opt for unsalted butter to control the sweetness perfectly. Salted butter can mask the delicate mint flavor you’re aiming for in your Peppermint Meltaways.
Watch for Overmixing: Once you combine the dry ingredients with the wet, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies instead of melt-in-your-mouth treats.
Adjust Frosting Consistency: If your frosting feels too runny, add powdered sugar a tablespoon at a time. Aim for a thick but spreadable consistency that complements the cookies perfectly.
Topping Tips: For a festive crunch, make sure to sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on the frosting while it’s still fresh and soft, ensuring they stick well.

Storage Tips for Peppermint Meltaways

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor, allowing you to enjoy your peppermint meltaways without compromise.

Fridge: If you’re in a warmer climate, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week to prevent melting or becoming too soft.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the un-frosted peppermint meltaways in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and they’ll be good for up to 3 months. Frost after thawing for best results.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, allow cookies to thaw at room temperature and frost them just before serving for that fresh, delicious taste.

Peppermint Meltaways Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for peppermint meltaways?
Absolutely! When baking, always select quality ingredients. For unsalted butter, ensure it’s at room temperature for a smooth blending experience. The powdered sugar should be fresh and finely ground for the best texture. Cornstarch should be free from lumps, while your all-purpose flour should be light and fluffy—sometimes a gentle whisk can help aerate it before measuring.

How should I store my peppermint meltaways, and how long will they last?
Very importantly, store your peppermint meltaways in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for the freshest taste. If you’re in a warmer area, refrigerating them in an airtight container can keep them fresh for up to a week. This method helps prevent the cookies from becoming too soft or losing their delightful texture.

Can I freeze peppermint meltaways, and if so, how?
Yes, you can certainly freeze them! To freeze your peppermint meltaways, first, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature and frost right before serving for that fresh look and taste.

What should I do if my frosting is too thin?
If your frosting turns out too runny, don’t worry! To fix this, simply add powdered sugar gradually—start with 1 tablespoon at a time—mixing well after each addition until your frosting reaches the desired thickness. Ideally, you want a spreadable consistency that will hold up on the cookies. If you’d like more flavor, consider adding a touch of peppermint extract as you adjust the sweetness!

Are there any dietary considerations for anyone wanting to enjoy these cookies?
Absolutely! These peppermint meltaways are vegetarian-friendly and can be enjoyed by most individuals. If you have nut allergies, be sure to check flavor extracts to ensure they are nut-free. For a gluten-free alternative, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend—there are some great options available that mimic the texture of traditional flour beautifully.