If you’re looking for a delightful treat that melts in your mouth and fills your kitchen with the refreshing scent of mint, you’re going to adore this Peppermint Meltaways Recipe. These little cookies combine a tender, buttery base with a dreamy peppermint frosting, creating a perfect balance of sweet and minty that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just craving a cozy sweet snack, these meltaways bring warmth, charm, and a fun festive touch to any occasion.

Peppermint Meltaways Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Peppermint Meltaways Recipe lies not only in how delicious they are but also in how simple the ingredients list is. Each component plays a vital role, from the buttery richness to the cool peppermint punch, making sure each bite is sheer bliss.

Butter, 1 cup softened: Provides the rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture that defines these cookies.
Confectioners’ sugar, 1/2 cup: Sweetens gently and helps create that smooth, creamy crumb.
Peppermint extract, 1/2 teaspoon: Delivers the crisp, refreshing mint flavor that makes these meltaways special.
All-purpose flour, 1 1/4 cups: The base that gives structure without toughness.
Cornstarch, 1/2 cup: Adds softness and a delicate crumb, helping the cookies literally melt on your tongue.
Salt, 1/4 teaspoon: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Butter for frosting, 2 tablespoons softened: Creates the creamy layer that ties it all together.
Confectioners’ sugar for frosting, 1 1/2 cups: Sweetens and thickens the frosting beautifully.
Milk, 2 tablespoons: Adjusts frosting consistency for easy spreading.
Peppermint extract for frosting, 1/4 teaspoon: Infuses the frosting with extra minty delight.
Red food coloring, 2 to 3 drops (optional): For a festive pop of color that’s totally optional but very fun!
Crushed peppermint candies for garnish: Adds a crunchy, colorful finishing touch that looks gorgeous.

How to Make Peppermint Meltaways Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by creaming the softened butter with the confectioners’ sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, giving your cookies that tender yet melt-in-your-mouth texture. Once fluffy, beat in the peppermint extract; this is where the magic begins as your kitchen will instantly be filled with that bright minty aroma.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. These dry components make sure the cookies have the perfect crumbly softness. Gradually add this dry mix to the creamed butter and sugar, folding gently until everything comes together into a smooth dough.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Cover your dough and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling is a simple step but so important—it firms up the dough, making it easier to shape and helping your cookies keep their round shape while baking without spreading too much.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, spacing them about 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Rolling ensures uniform sizes so that each Peppermint Meltaway bakes evenly and melts perfectly in your mouth.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies for 9 to 11 minutes until the bottoms just start to turn a light golden brown. These cookies are delicate, so it’s essential not to overbake. Once out of the oven, transfer them to wire racks and allow them to cool completely before moving on to frosting.

Step 6: Make and Decorate with Frosting

While the cookies cool, whip up the frosting by beating softened butter until creamy. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, milk, peppermint extract, and if you like, a few drops of red food coloring for that cheerful holiday vibe. Spread the frosting generously over each cooled cookie and top with crushed peppermint candies for that extra crunch and festive flair. Let the frosting set before indulging.

How to Serve Peppermint Meltaways Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkling crushed peppermint candies doesn’t just add vibrant pops of color but also introduces a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie and creamy frosting. You can even dust them lightly with extra confectioners’ sugar for a snowy effect that makes them look too pretty to eat.

Side Dishes

Peppermint Meltaways are a perfect companion to warm drinks. Pair them with a rich cup of hot cocoa or a festive peppermint tea for an extra cozy treat. They also shine on dessert platters alongside chocolate-dipped treats or simple shortbread cookies, making your holiday spread inviting and diverse.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider arranging these peppermint meltaways in pretty tins layered with parchment paper, tied with a satin ribbon—ideal for charming homemade gifts. For parties, place them on elegant serving trays sprinkled with holly leaves or place each cookie in a mini cupcake liner for an easy grab-and-go presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Peppermint Meltaways in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week. Keeping them sealed well ensures they stay soft and retain their tender meltaway quality without drying out.

Freezing

If you want to make these ahead, freeze unbaked dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, pop the frozen balls in the oven—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. Baked cookies can also be frozen in airtight containers for up to three months and thawed at room temperature before frosting.

Reheating

Reheat cookies gently in a low-temperature oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes to refresh their softness if they’ve been stored a while. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy or overly soft.

FAQs

Can I use peppermint oil instead of peppermint extract?

Peppermint oil is much stronger than extract, so if you choose to substitute, significantly reduce the amount to avoid overpowering the cookies. Generally, half the amount or less is recommended.

What can I use instead of cornstarch?

If you don’t have cornstarch, you can substitute with an equal amount of arrowroot powder or potato starch. These alternatives also contribute to that delicate, tender texture.

How do I make the frosting thicker or thinner?

Add more confectioners’ sugar to thicken the frosting or add a little more milk to thin it out. Adjust gradually to get the desired spreading consistency.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum for best results. The cornstarch will still help keep the texture light and crumbly.

How long do Peppermint Meltaways last?

Stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies remain fresh and tender for up to a week at room temperature, making them perfect for making ahead for holiday celebrations or special treats.

Final Thoughts

This Peppermint Meltaways Recipe is a delightful, simple way to add a little magic to your baking routine. Their tender crumb and refreshing mint flavor make them a real crowd-pleaser, and the festive look means they’re perfect for gifting or sharing at any gathering. I hope you enjoy making and savoring every melt-in-your-mouth bite as much as I do!