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Peppermint Meltaways Recipe

4.7 from 104 reviews

Peppermint Meltaways are delicate, buttery cookies infused with refreshing peppermint extract and topped with a smooth peppermint frosting and crushed peppermint candies. These melt-in-your-mouth treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy winter snack, featuring a tender crumb that pairs beautifully with the sweet, creamy frosting and a hint of festive crunch.

Ingredients

Scale

Cookie Dough

  • 1 cup softened butter
  • 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Frosting

  • 2 tablespoons softened butter
  • 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • Optional: red food coloring
  • Crushed peppermint candies for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cream Butter and Sugar: Cream together the softened butter and confectioners’ sugar in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, which ensures a tender cookie texture.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt thoroughly. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture, stirring just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
  3. Chill Dough: Cover and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to handle and helping the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
  4. Preheat Oven and Shape Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them evenly spaced on ungreased baking sheets to allow for even baking.
  5. Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly browned. Avoid overbaking to keep them tender and crumbly. Remove and cool the cookies on wire racks completely before frosting.
  6. Make Frosting: Beat the softened butter and confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Add milk, peppermint extract, and optional red food coloring, and continue beating until the frosting is creamy and evenly colored.
  7. Frost and Decorate: Spread the frosting over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies for a festive finish and a bit of crunch.

Notes

  • For best results, ensure the butter is softened but not melted before creaming.
  • Chilling the dough is crucial to prevent spreading during baking.
  • Use crushed peppermint candies sparingly to avoid overwhelming the delicate peppermint flavor.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
  • This recipe can be doubled easily for larger gatherings.

Keywords: Peppermint Meltaways, peppermint cookies, holiday cookies, buttery cookies, peppermint frosting, Christmas dessert