There’s something magical about peppermint meltaways during the holidays. These tender, buttery cookies melt in your mouth with a refreshing hint of peppermint that instantly transports you to cozy winter moments. If you’re looking for a festive treat that’s both charming and simple to make, peppermint meltaways are the perfect choice.
This version of peppermint meltaways balances classic flavors with ease, making it a great recipe for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday party, gifting to friends, or just craving a seasonal sweet, these cookies deliver on taste and texture every time.
The subtle peppermint flavor pairs beautifully with the delicate crumbly texture, creating a melt-in-your-mouth sensation unlike any other. What makes this recipe especially easy is the straightforward list of ingredients and simple steps that don’t require special equipment or complicated techniques.
You’ll love having these peppermint meltaways on hand throughout the holiday season to share with loved ones or enjoy alongside a warm cup of cocoa. Let’s dive into why this recipe stands out and how you can master it in your kitchen.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
These peppermint meltaways are the ultimate holiday cookie for many reasons. Here’s why you’ll want to add them to your seasonal baking lineup:
- Soft, buttery texture that literally melts in your mouth.
- Refreshing peppermint flavor that’s festive but not overpowering.
- Simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- Perfect for gifting or dessert trays with a pretty crushed candy cane garnish.
- Easy to make with no chilling required, saving you time.
Ingredients
Gather these simple, classic ingredients to make your peppermint meltaways come to life.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candy canes or candy pieces, divided
- Additional powdered sugar for dusting
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If you’d prefer, you can substitute almond extract for peppermint extract for a different holiday twist. For a gluten-free option, use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend that measures like all-purpose flour.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Servings: About 24 cookies
- Calories: Approximately 110 per cookie
How to Make Irresistible Peppermint Meltaways: A Festive Treat for the Holidays!
Follow these simple steps to create meltaway cookies bursting with peppermint flavor and tender texture.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together using a hand or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Mix in the vanilla and peppermint extracts until fully combined and fragrant.
- Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just incorporated, forming a soft dough.
- Fold in half of the crushed peppermint candy canes gently with a spatula, reserving the rest for garnish.
- Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop dough and roll into 1-inch balls. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your palm, then sprinkle the remaining crushed candy cane on top for a festive look.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft and slightly pale.
- Remove from oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
You’ll know your peppermint meltaways are perfectly done when the edges hold their shape but the center feels tender and soft to the touch. The cookies will firm up slightly as they cool, giving them that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Tips for the Best Results
To ensure your peppermint meltaways turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
- Use room temperature butter for easy creaming and a tender crumb.
- Sift powdered sugar to avoid lumps in the dough.
- Don’t overmix once you add flour; mix just until combined to keep cookies delicate.
- Press the candy cane pieces lightly so they stick but don’t crush the cookie dough.
- Store cookies completely cooled to maintain their meltaway texture.
Serving Suggestions
Peppermint meltaways make a delightful holiday treat to serve with a variety of drinks and desserts. Pair them with hot chocolate or peppermint mocha for a perfectly festive pairing.
They’re also wonderful alongside a holiday cookie platter featuring gingerbread, sugar cookies, and spiced treats. These meltaways add a refreshing peppermint note that balances richer flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store peppermint meltaways in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresh longer, you can refrigerate them, but allow cookies to come to room temperature before serving.
If you want to freeze them, place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying. Reheating isn’t necessary, but a few seconds in the microwave can soften chilled cookies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use peppermint oil instead of extract?
Yes, but peppermint oil is more concentrated than extract. Use it sparingly—start with a few drops and adjust to taste to avoid overpowering the cookies.
Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
This recipe does not require chilling. Baking immediately after mixing saves time and the cookies maintain their tender texture.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
To make them vegan, substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use powdered sugar that is certified vegan. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious.
What’s the best way to crush candy canes for this recipe?
Place candy canes in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush with a rolling pin or heavy pan. Aim for a mix of small pieces and fine powder for both flavor and pretty garnish.
Now that you have all the details, it’s time to bake your peppermint meltaways and enjoy the festive flavors of the season. These cookies are sure to become a holiday favorite you’ll return to year after year.