Name: Peppermint Meltaway Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-481900H56M14S
Total time: PT-481900H56M14S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 tsp peppermint extract; 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1-2 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency); 1/4 tsp peppermint extract; Optional: Few drops of pink or red food coloring; Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

Description

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are buttery, soft treats that melt in your mouth, featuring a refreshing peppermint flavor. Topped with a creamy peppermint frosting and crushed candy canes, these festive cookies are the perfect holiday indulgence for gatherings or gifting.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1/2 tsp peppermint extract

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup cornstarch

For the Peppermint Frosting:

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1–2 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)

1/4 tsp peppermint extract

Optional: Few drops of pink or red food coloring

For Garnish:

Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes

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Instructions

Prepare the Dough:
Cream butter and powdered sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Mix in peppermint extract. Gradually add flour and cornstarch, stirring until a soft dough forms.
Chill the Dough:
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Shape the Cookies:
Roll chilled dough into 1-inch balls. Place on prepared baking sheets, spacing 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly using the bottom of a glass or your palm.
Bake:
Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set and bottoms are lightly golden. Cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Make the Frosting:
Beat butter until smooth. Gradually mix in powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract until creamy. Add food coloring for a festive touch, if desired.
Decorate:
Spread frosting on cooled cookies. Sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.
Serve:
Let the frosting set before serving.

Notes

Make Ahead: Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw and frost before serving.

Substitutions: Use vegan butter and plant-based milk for a vegan version.

Variations: Try chocolate peppermint, citrus flavors, or dipped cookies for unique twists.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling)
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: About 24 cookies