Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are the perfect holiday treat, combining a buttery, delicate texture with a refreshing burst of peppermint flavor. These cookies literally melt in your mouth, making them a hit for Christmas parties, gift exchanges, or simply enjoying by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa. With their festive glaze and candy cane topping, these cookies are as beautiful as they are delicious.

What Are Peppermint Meltaway Cookies?

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are tender shortbread-like cookies with a hint of peppermint, topped with a sweet glaze and crushed peppermint candies. The addition of cornstarch gives these cookies their signature melt-in-your-mouth texture. They’re easy to prepare, making them an excellent choice for holiday baking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Requires simple ingredients and comes together in no time.
• Festive Appeal: The crushed peppermint topping adds a beautiful holiday touch.
• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: Light and delicate, perfect for indulging.
• Customizable: Adapt the recipe for different dietary needs or flavor profiles.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (30g) cornstarch

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 1½ tablespoons milk (plus more if needed)
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
• Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add the peppermint extract and mix until incorporated.
4. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and cornstarch, mixing just until a soft dough forms.

Shaping the Cookies

5. Scoop the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Flatten each ball slightly with your palm or the bottom of a glass.

Baking

8. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but not browned.
9. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Adding the Glaze

10. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract until smooth. Add a little more milk if needed for a drizzleable consistency.
11. Drizzle or spread the glaze over the cooled cookies.
12. Immediately sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies before the glaze sets.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these cookies alongside a warm drink, such as hot cocoa, coffee, or spiced tea.
• Use them as part of a festive cookie platter for holiday parties or gift exchanges.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Place wax or parchment paper between layers to prevent the glaze from sticking.

Freezing Instructions

• Unbaked Dough: Roll dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet. Once firm, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
• Baked Cookies: Freeze the unglazed cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw, then add glaze and toppings.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan: Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use non-dairy milk for the glaze.
• Citrus Twist: Swap the peppermint extract with orange or lemon extract for a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies instead of glaze for a decadent touch.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but omit the salt in the recipe to avoid oversalting.

What if I don’t have cornstarch?
Cornstarch is key for the tender texture, but you can substitute it with an equal amount of powdered sugar in a pinch.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cookies store well and can be made a day or two in advance.

These Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are a must-try for the holiday season. With their delicate texture, refreshing peppermint flavor, and festive appearance, they’re sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re gifting them or keeping them all for yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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