Peppermint Meltaway Cookies: 5 Irresistible Treats for Joy

Name: Peppermint Meltaway Cookies: 5 Irresistible Treats for Joy
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: PT-492660H32M24S
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp peppermint extract; 1/3 cup crushed peppermint candies; 1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting); 2 tbsp milk or heavy cream; 1/4 tsp peppermint extract (for frosting); Optional: pink food coloring

by dorina alena

December 12, 2025

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Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are a delightful treat that embodies the spirit of the holidays. These cookies are soft, buttery, and topped with a cool peppermint glaze, making them melt in your mouth. Each bite brings festive joy, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or simply indulging in a sweet moment, these cookies will bring a smile to your face.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

There are countless reasons to adore these peppermint cookies. First, their melt-in-your-mouth texture is simply irresistible. Second, they feature a refreshing peppermint flavor that’s perfect for the holidays. These cookies are also versatile; you can make chocolate peppermint cookies by adding cocoa powder for a richer flavor. Additionally, they’re easy to prepare, making them a go-to choice for busy bakers. With only a few simple ingredients, you can create these meltaway peppermint treats in no time. Plus, they’re vegetarian and can be made gluten-free by substituting the flour. With these cookies, you can enjoy a festive treat without the fuss!

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies: 5 Irresistible Treats for Joy - Peppermint Meltaway Cookies - main visual representation

Ingredients for Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Gather these items:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp peppermint extract
1/3 cup crushed peppermint candies
1 cup powdered sugar (for frosting)
2 tbsp milk or heavy cream
1/4 tsp peppermint extract (for frosting)
Optional: pink food coloring

How to Make Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cream butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 2: Mix in peppermint extract.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add to butter mixture.
Step 4: Mix just until combined. Wrap and chill dough for at least 1 hour.
Step 5: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake 11–13 minutes until set but not browned. Cool completely.
Step 7: For the frosting: mix powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract until smooth. Add food coloring if desired.
Step 8: Frost cooled cookies and sprinkle with crushed peppermint. Let icing set before storing.

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies: 5 Irresistible Treats for Joy - Peppermint Meltaway Cookies - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
These cookies can be made ahead of time and frozen for later enjoyment.
For added flavor, consider using a mix of peppermint extract and vanilla extract.
Experiment with toppings such as a peppermint meltaway cookies with chocolate drizzle for a delicious twist.

Best Ways to Serve Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

These cookies are perfect for various occasions. Serve them at holiday gatherings, as festive peppermint meltaway cookies at Christmas parties, or pack them as gifts for friends and family. They pair wonderfully with hot cocoa or coffee, making them a delightful afternoon snack.

How to Store and Reheat Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. If you plan to make them ahead of time, they freeze well and can be thawed at room temperature. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them sit out for a bit or microwave briefly for a warm treat. The total time for this recipe is 1 hour and 30 minutes, including preparation and baking.

Frequently Asked Questions About Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

What’s the secret to perfect Peppermint Meltaway Cookies?

The secret lies in the chilling process. Allowing the dough to chill helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking, resulting in soft peppermint meltaways that are perfectly tender.

Can I make Peppermint Meltaway Cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these cookies ahead of time. They freeze well and can be stored for up to three months, making them an ideal choice for holiday preparation.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Peppermint Meltaway Cookies?

To avoid mistakes, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the dough to keep the cookies tender.

Variations of Peppermint Meltaway Cookies You Can Try

There are plenty of ways to get creative with this recipe. You can make no-bake peppermint meltaway cookies by using a different base, or try vegan peppermint meltaway cookies with plant-based ingredients. For a holiday twist, add crushed candy canes on top or try a peppermint cream meltaway cookies version filled with a creamy center.

For more information on baking techniques, check out this baking basics guide.

To learn more about the benefits of peppermint, visit this Healthline article on peppermint.

For additional tips on cookie storage, see this Food Network guide.

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