Name: Meltaway Bliss: Irresistible Peppermint Meltaways Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 62 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (softened); ½ cup Confectioners' Sugar; 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (adjust to taste); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; ½ cup Cornstarch; 1 pinch Salt; ½ cup Butter (softened); 2 cups Confectioners' Sugar; 2 tablespoons Milk (any type); 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract; 1 drop Red Food Coloring (optional); ½ cup Crushed Peppermint Candies

As I unwrapped a new set of holiday cookie cutters, a flurry of peppermint-scented memories swept through my kitchen. These Melt-in-Your-Mouth Peppermint Meltaways not only evoke the warm spirit of the season but also bring a delightful softness that makes every single bite a treat to remember. Effortless to whip up, these cookies are the ultimate solution for anyone seeking a festive dessert that doesn’t demand hours of prep. With their buttery texture and refreshing minty flavor, they’re bound to become a crowd-pleaser at any holiday gathering. Ready to create a sweet moment for family and friends that melts in your mouth? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Melt-in-your-mouth texture: These Peppermint Meltaways have a soft, buttery finish that dissolves delightfully on your tongue.

Effortless recipe: With minimal steps and basic ingredients, you’ll find that these cookies come together quickly, perfect for anyone short on time during the holidays.

Festive flavor: The combination of peppermint extract and crushed candies creates a refreshing and vibrant taste that truly captures the spirit of the season.

Crowd favorite: Ideal for holiday gatherings, these cookies appeal to all ages—making them a sure hit for your next party.

Versatile options: Mix up the flavors by swapping peppermint for vanilla or create a snowy effect with powdered sugar! For additional tips and cookie inspiration, check out our delightful Double Chocolate Peppermint cookies.

Perfect pairing: Pair these meltaways with a cozy cup of cocoa or tea for a delightful treat the whole family will love.

Peppermint Meltaways Ingredients

• The key to crafting your melt-in-your-mouth peppermint meltaways lies in the perfect blend of ingredients.

For the Cookies

Butter – Provides richness and moisture; for a dairy-free version, use vegan butter.
Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetener that lends a fine, smooth texture to the cookies.
Peppermint Extract – Adds a refreshing mint flavor; adjust to taste for your desired level of mintiness.
All-Purpose Flour – Serves as the main structure for the cookies, ensuring a soft bite.
Cornstarch – Helps create a tender and light cookie texture.
Salt – Enhances all the flavors in your cookies.

For the Frosting

Butter – Provides creaminess and richness, just like for the cookies.
Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens the frosting for a delightful topping.
Milk – Thins frosting for easy spreading; use any milk of your choice.
Peppermint Extract – Infuses the frosting with the same delightful mint flavor as the cookies.
Red Food Coloring (optional) – Adds a festive touch; mix carefully to keep colors subtle.

For the Garnish

Crushed Peppermint Candies – Adds a crunchy texture and makes for an eye-catching topping on your cookies.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Meltaways

Step 1: Prep the Dough
Begin by creaming together 1 cup of softened butter and ½ cup of confectioners’ sugar in a large mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Next, blend in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into your butter mixture, using a spatula to gently combine until just incorporated. Take care not to over-mix, as you want these Peppermint Meltaways to remain tender and light.

Step 3: Shape Cookies
Once the dough is well combined, use your hands to form small 1-inch balls and place them on an ungreased baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. The cookies won’t spread much during baking, so shaping them perfectly now ensures uniform results. This step creates the cute shape of your melt-in-your-mouth cookies!

Step 4: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while arranging the cookies on the baking sheet. Once heated, bake the cookies for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are set and slightly firm to the touch but not browned. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake. The aroma of peppermint will fill your kitchen, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Step 5: Frost
After baking, allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack. While they cool, prepare the frosting by combining ½ cup of softened butter, 2 cups of confectioners’ sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract in a mixing bowl. Beat until it reaches a smooth consistency, then spread generously over each cookie.

Step 6: Garnish
To finish off your Peppermint Meltaways, sprinkle the tops with crushed peppermint candies for a delightful crunch and festive look. This step not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the refreshing mint flavor. Allow the frosting to set before serving, making these cookies a perfect treat for any holiday gathering!

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Meltaways

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to keep them fresh and delicious.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to 1 week; allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.

Reheating: If desired, warm cookies in the microwave for 5-10 seconds to regain their melt-in-your-mouth texture before indulging.

Peppermint Meltaways Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can make your Peppermint Meltaways even more exciting.

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with vegan butter for a delicious, dairy-free treat without losing that melt-in-your-mouth magic.
Nutty Addition: Incorporate finely chopped walnuts or almonds into the dough for a crunchy texture that adds warmth and flavor to every bite. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with peppermint!
Chocolate Drizzle: After frosting, drizzle with melted dark chocolate for a decadent touch that contrasts wonderfully with the minty sweetness. It’s a match made in festive heaven!
Zesty Lemon: For a refreshing twist, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough. This will give your cookies a vibrant citrus flavor that brightens the overall taste.
Chili Peppermint: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough or frosting for a surprising kick! The warmth of chili complements the coolness of peppermint, creating an exciting flavor experience.
Powdered Sugar Coating: Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar right after baking for a snowy appearance that’s both charming and sweet. This timeless touch makes them look as festive as they taste!
Chocolate Peppermint Chip: Fold in semi-sweet or white chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a delightful texture and a sweet chocolatey burst. To enhance the festive spirit, why not consider our delicious Double Chocolate Peppermint cookies as inspiration?
Vanilla Swap: Replace peppermint extract with pure vanilla for a smooth, sweet flavor that tastes just as delightful and adds a little twist to classic meltaways.

Embrace the spirit of creativity in your kitchen! These variations are here to inspire deliciousness at your next gathering.

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Meltaways are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the holidays with less stress! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by simply making it, rolling it into balls, and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For longer storage, shape the balls and freeze them; they can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to allow the dough to thaw in the fridge before baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the cold dough on a baking sheet and follow the regular baking instructions. They’ll turn out just as delicious and festive!

What to Serve with Peppermint Meltaways

Create the perfect holiday spread around your Peppermint Meltaways with these delightful pairings that enhance every joyful bite.

Rich Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of cocoa complements the minty flavor, creating a delightful contrast that will warm your heart.
Creamy Eggnog: The rich creaminess of eggnog provides a luxurious sip that pairs beautifully with the refreshing peppermint cookies.
Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices of chai harmonize with the cool mint, balancing flavors and inviting cozy conversations.
Chocolate-Dipped Fruit: Fresh strawberries or bananas dipped in chocolate add a sweet, fruity burst that enhances the meltaways’ richness.
Crunchy Nuts: Roasted almonds or pecans offer a contrasting crunch, grounding the soft texture of the cookies and adding depth to your dessert table.
Gingerbread Cookies: Create a festive assortment by serving these alongside gingerbread cookies, adding another layer of holiday spirit.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate your dessert experience, melting softly into the buttery warmth of the meltaways.
Peppermint Tea: Keep the minty theme alive with a steaming cup of peppermint tea, refreshing your palate between sweet bites.

Expert Tips for Peppermint Meltaways

Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is softened at room temperature for optimal creaminess; this is key in achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Gentle Mixing: Be careful not to over-mix the dough once you add the dry ingredients; this helps prevent tough cookies and keeps them tender.
Cooling Time: Allow the cookies to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful finish on your Peppermint Meltaways.
Consistent Sizing: Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to create uniform 1-inch balls. This ensures even baking and consistent texture.
Flexible Flavoring: Feel free to experiment with flavors! Swap out peppermint extract for vanilla if you’re craving something different, while maintaining that delightful meltaway texture.
Decorate with Care: When sprinkling crushed peppermint candies on top, do it right after frosting while it’s still soft, so they adhere well without falling off later.

Peppermint Meltaways Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe peppermint extract?
Absolutely! When selecting peppermint extract, look for products that are pure and made from natural peppermint oil for the best flavor. You should avoid artificial extracts as they can have a strong, synthetic taste that won’t yield the same delicious results in your cookies.

How should I store my Peppermint Meltaways?
To keep your meltaways fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you have a warm or humid kitchen, consider refrigerating them, as this can help maintain their delightful texture and prevent them from becoming too soft.

Can I freeze Peppermint Meltaways, and if so, how?
Yes, you can definitely freeze your Peppermint Meltaways! To do this, place the cooled cookies in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag with parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and they’ll be as good as fresh!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to overly softened butter or not enough flour in the dough. Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and consider refrigerating the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape.

Are Peppermint Meltaways safe for pets?
No, it’s best to keep Peppermint Meltaways away from pets! The chocolate in some variations can be toxic to dogs and cats. Additionally, peppermint oil itself can upset their stomachs. Stick to pet-safe treats if your furry friends are looking for something special!

Can I replace any ingredients for dietary considerations?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, simply use vegan butter in place of regular butter. You can also swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend if you have gluten sensitivities. Just be sure to follow the package instructions for measurement adjustments, as gluten-free flours can behave differently in baking.