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If you adore the festive spirit captured in a cookie, then this Peppermint Meltaways Recipe is destined to become your new holiday favorite. These delicate, buttery cookies melt in your mouth with a perfect hint of crisp peppermint, topped with a glossy glaze and crushed peppermint candies that add a cool crunch. They are refreshingly light yet decadently flavorful, making them an irresistible treat to share with family, friends, or simply to enjoy on a cozy afternoon.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Peppermint Meltaways Recipe plays a starring role, bringing the perfect balance of rich creaminess, tender texture, and a fresh peppermint zing that defines the entire cookie. The simplicity of these essentials makes preparation easy and guarantees delicious results every time.
- 1 cup butter (softened): Provides a rich, creamy base that ensures your cookies are melt-in-your-mouth soft.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness with a smooth, delicate texture.
- 3/4 teaspoon peppermint extract: Infuses the dough with that unmistakable cool peppermint flavor.
- 1 1/4 cups flour: The structure behind your cookies, giving them a tender crumb without heaviness.
- 1/2 cup cornstarch: Helps make the cookies ultra-soft and crumbly, enhancing that meltaway effect.
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (for glaze): Sweetens and thickens the glaze to perfectly coat your cookies.
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk: Adjusts the glaze consistency to a drizzly finish with a touch of creaminess.
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (for glaze): Adds a refreshing burst to the glaze, complementing the dough’s peppermint notes.
- Crushed peppermints: Sprinkled on top for a festive crunch that completes the look and taste.
How to Make Peppermint Meltaways Recipe
Step 1: Cream together the basics
Start by combining the softened butter, powdered sugar, and 3/4 teaspoon peppermint extract in a large bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat these ingredients together until they are beautifully creamed and fluffy. This step is crucial—it creates the perfect foundation for light and tender cookies.
Step 2: Mix in dry ingredients
Next, gently incorporate the flour and cornstarch into your creamed mixture. These dry ingredients are what transform your dough into those soft, flaky meltaways. After mixing until just combined, pop the dough into the refrigerator for an hour. Chilling helps the cookies keep their shape during baking and intensifies their delicate texture.
Step 3: Prepare for baking
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Once chilled, scoop about 2 teaspoons of dough and roll each portion into balls. Place them evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This spacing lets each cookie bake evenly and develop a gentle golden edge.
Step 4: Bake to perfection
Bake the cookies for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges are just starting to turn a light golden color. This signals the cookies are cooked through but still soft and tender inside. Once done, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes—handle carefully as they can be fragile. Then transfer to a cooling rack to finish cooling completely.
Step 5: Prepare the glaze and decorate
To make the signature glaze, mix the powdered sugar with 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract. Start by adding 1 tablespoon of milk and stir until smooth—add the extra tablespoon only if you need a looser, drizzle-worthy texture. Once your cookies are fully cooled, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top and immediately sprinkle with crushed peppermints. This not only adds that festive flair but a deliciously crisp texture that contrasts perfectly with the soft cookie beneath.
How to Serve Peppermint Meltaways Recipe
Garnishes
A light drizzle of white chocolate or a few sprigs of fresh mint can elevate the presentation and add a complementary flavor. Add a dusting of extra powdered sugar for a snowy holiday vibe that invites everyone to dive in.
Side Dishes
These meltaway cookies pair wonderfully with warm beverages like peppermint hot chocolate, spicy chai tea, or classic coffee. They also serve beautifully alongside a simple fruit platter or a bowl of creamy vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Peppermint Meltaways Recipe Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the cookies in a clear jar or gift box tied with a colorful ribbon for a heartwarming homemade gift. Arranging them on a festive platter surrounded by candy canes and holly sprigs will create an irresistible holiday centerpiece. For parties, serve them alongside mini peppermint latte shots for a delightful pairing that guests won’t forget.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Peppermint Meltaways keep best in an airtight container at room temperature to retain their tender crumb. Properly stored, they will stay fresh and wonderfully soft for up to a week.
Freezing
If you want to make these ahead of time, these cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag or container. They can be frozen for up to two months without losing their meltaway magic.
Reheating
To enjoy frozen meltaways at their freshest, let them thaw at room temperature. If you crave a warm cookie, pop one or two in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds just until soft. Avoid overheating to keep their delicate texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use peppermint oil instead of peppermint extract?
Yes, but peppermint oil is much stronger than extract, so use it sparingly. Start with just a drop or two and adjust according to your taste to avoid overpowering the cookies.
What makes these cookies melt in your mouth?
The combination of cornstarch and butter is key to the meltaway texture. Cornstarch tenderizes the dough and keeps it from being tough, while the butter adds richness and softness.
Can I substitute the milk in the glaze?
Absolutely! You can use any milk alternative like almond, oat, or soy milk. Just make sure to use unsweetened versions so your glaze doesn’t become too sweet or change texture.
How should I crush the peppermints for topping?
Place the peppermints in a sealable plastic bag and gently crush with a rolling pin or heavy pan. Aim for small pieces—not powder—to add that satisfying crunch and visual appeal.
Could I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensuring your cornstarch is gluten-free, you can create a tasty gluten-free version without sacrificing texture or flavor.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Peppermint Meltaways Recipe—it’s a timeless classic that brings joy in every bite. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, gifting to friends, or just indulging your sweet tooth, these cookies are pure magic. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to something delightfully sweet and pepperminty today!
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Peppermint Meltaways Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (+ 1 hour chilling)
- Yield: 2.2 dozen (approximately 26 cookies)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Peppermint Meltaways are delicate, buttery cookies infused with refreshing peppermint extract, coated in a sweet glaze, and topped with crushed peppermint candies. These melt-in-your-mouth treats are perfect for the holiday season or any occasion where a festive, minty dessert is desired.
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 3/4 tsp peppermint extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
Glaze and Topping
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Crushed peppermints (for topping)
Instructions
- Combine Butter, Sugar, and Extract: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup softened butter, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and 3/4 teaspoon peppermint extract.
- Cream the Mixture: Using an electric mixer, beat the ingredients until fully combined and creamed together to create a smooth base.
- Add Dry Ingredients and Refrigerate: Gradually add 1 1/4 cups flour and 1/2 cup cornstarch to the butter mixture until well incorporated. Refrigerate the dough for 1 hour to firm up and make it easier to shape.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
- Shape Dough Balls: Take about 2 teaspoons of dough and roll it into balls. Place the dough balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them evenly.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the dough balls for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden, indicating they are cooked through but still tender.
- Cool Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Handle gently as the cookies are delicate.
- Prepare Glaze: In a bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar with 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract. Add 1 tablespoon milk to start and stir until the mixture reaches a drizzly consistency. Add more milk if necessary, but keep the glaze thick enough to coat the cookies.
- Glaze the Cookies: Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cooled cookies.
- Add Toppings: Immediately sprinkle crushed peppermints over the glazed cookies before the glaze sets. Serve once the glaze has firmed up slightly.
Notes
- Refrigerating the dough is essential for easier shaping and to ensure the cookies hold their shape during baking.
- Be gentle when handling the cookies after baking as they are fragile and can break easily.
- Adjust the glaze thickness by adding milk a little at a time to avoid it becoming too runny.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- These meltaways are excellent for holiday gifting and pairing with hot cocoa or tea.
