Introduction

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that literally melt in your mouth. With a tender crumb and refreshing peppermint flavor, these cookies are perfect for sharing during festive gatherings or enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa.

The image shows a white plate filled with several soft, round sugar cookies that are topped with thick, creamy white frosting. Each cookie has a layer of crushed red and white peppermint candy sprinkled evenly over the frosting, adding a textured, colorful contrast. The cookies are piled slightly on top of each other, showing their light golden-brown edges beneath the frosting. The background is a white marbled surface with blurred elements in the back, giving the scene a cozy feeling. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 1/4 cups (178g) all-purpose flour (scoop and level)
1/2 cup (68g) cornstarch (scoop and level)
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (68g) powdered sugar
1/2 tsp peppermint extract
2 Tbsp (28g) salted butter, softened
2 Tbsp half and half
1/4 tsp peppermint extract
1 1/2 cups (200g) powdered sugar
1/4 cup (42g) finely crushed peppermint bits or candy canes

Instructions

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Set the dry mixture aside.
Step 2: In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the unsalted butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is combined and fluffy.
Step 3: Mix in 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract. Then, with the mixer on low speed, slowly add the flour mixture and mix just until combined to form the dough.
Step 4: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough until nearly firm, about 1 hour. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) during the last 15 minutes of chilling.
Step 5: Scoop out the dough 1 tablespoon at a time and shape each portion into a ball. Place the balls on an ungreased 18 by 13-inch baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. Keep any dough not being baked chilled.
Step 6: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven until they are set and the bottoms are lightly golden brown, about 10 to 13 minutes. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for at least 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: In the bowl of an electric stand mixer, cream together the salted butter, half and half, 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy to make the frosting.
Step 8: Working with one cookie at a time, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Immediately sprinkle with crushed peppermint bits before the frosting starts to set. Repeat this process with all the cookies.
Step 9: Store the finished cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

For a stronger peppermint flavor, add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the cookie dough or frosting.
Use finely crushed chocolate peppermint candies for a chocolaty twist.
If you prefer a less sweet frosting, reduce the powdered sugar slightly or substitute with cream cheese for a tangy variation.
Chilling the dough is essential for maintaining the delicate texture—don’t skip this step.

Storage

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They also freeze well; freeze unfrosted cookies in a single layer, then thaw and frost before serving. To refresh, let refrigerated cookies come to room temperature for the best meltaway texture.

How to Serve

The image shows a pile of soft sugar cookies arranged on a white plate. Each cookie has a thick layer of creamy white frosting spread unevenly on top, with small red and white crushed peppermint pieces sprinkled all over the frosting. The cookies have a light golden-brown edge, and the frosting looks smooth and slightly shiny. The background is a white marbled texture with a blurred red cloth in the distance. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different extract instead of peppermint?

Yes, you can substitute vanilla or almond extract if you prefer a different flavor profile, but peppermint is what gives these cookies their signature taste and festive charm.

How do I prevent the frosting from melting on the cookies?

Make sure the cookies are completely cool before frosting. Also, apply the frosting right before serving or storing to help it set well. You can chill the frosted cookies briefly to firm up the frosting if needed.