Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are tender, buttery, and perfectly infused with a hint of peppermint. These cookies literally melt in your mouth and are topped with a creamy peppermint glaze for an extra festive touch. Ideal for the holiday season, they’re a delightful addition to cookie platters or a thoughtful gift for loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: These cookies are as soft and delicate as their name suggests.
• Festive Flavor: A subtle peppermint taste makes them perfect for the holiday season.
• Beautiful Presentation: Topped with a glaze and candy cane sprinkles, they’re as pretty as they are delicious.
• Quick and Easy: Simple to make with basic pantry ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cookies:

• Unsalted butter, softened
• Powdered sugar
• Peppermint extract
• All-purpose flour
• Cornstarch

For the Glaze:

• Powdered sugar
• Milk
• Peppermint extract
• Optional: red food coloring
• Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies for garnish

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Make the Cookie Dough: In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add peppermint extract and mix well. Gradually add flour and cornstarch, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Form the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets. Slightly flatten each ball with the back of a spoon.
4. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but not browned. Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet.
5. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract until smooth. If desired, add a drop of red food coloring for a pink tint.
6. Decorate the Cookies: Drizzle or spread the glaze over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with crushed candy canes while the glaze is still wet.
7. Set and Serve: Allow the glaze to set before serving or storing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes

Variations

• Vanilla Peppermint Combo: Add a touch of vanilla extract to the dough for a well-rounded flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white or dark chocolate over the glazed cookies for extra decadence.
• Holiday Colors: Use green food coloring instead of red, or alternate for a festive mix.
• Nutty Addition: Mix in finely chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for added texture.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Freezing: Freeze unglazed cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

FAQs

Why are these cookies called “meltaways”?

The combination of butter and cornstarch gives these cookies a delicate, crumbly texture that melts in your mouth.

Can I use peppermint oil instead of extract?

Yes, but peppermint oil is much stronger, so use it sparingly (a few drops).

What if I don’t have cornstarch?

Cornstarch is key to the texture, but you can substitute with an equal amount of arrowroot powder or omit it for a slightly firmer cookie.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce or omit any added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.

How do I crush candy canes?

Place candy canes in a sealed plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin or use a food processor for finer pieces.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Let it soften slightly before baking.

Are these cookies suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! Package them in a festive tin or box with parchment paper between layers.

Can I omit the glaze?

Yes, the cookies are delicious on their own, but the glaze adds sweetness and a festive touch.

What other extracts can I use?

Try almond, orange, or lemon extract for a different flavor profile.

How do I keep the cookies from spreading?

Chill the dough for 20-30 minutes before baking to ensure the cookies maintain their shape.

Conclusion

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are a delightful holiday treat with a soft texture and festive flavor. Easy to make and beautifully decorated, they’re perfect for sharing, gifting, or enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa. Whip up a batch today and add a little holiday magic to your cookie tray!

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