Peppermint Meltaways Recipe

Last Christmas morning, I watched my grandmother’s face light up when she bit into one of these cookies. She paused mid-chew, closed her eyes, and declared them “better than the bakery ones from downtown.” That moment convinced me these Peppermint Meltaways deserve a spot on every holiday table. The cornstarch creates this ethereal texture that’s unlike any other cookie – they dissolve before you even realize you’re chewing. When December rolls around, I make triple batches because these festive treats disappear faster than fresh snow on pavement.

The Secret Behind These Melt-in-Your-Mouth Cookies

I’ve discovered through years of testing that room temperature butter is absolutely crucial for achieving the perfect crumbly texture in these Peppermint Meltaways. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup butter, softened to room temperature (leave out 2-3 hours)
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (I prefer pure extract over artificial)
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch (this is your secret weapon for texture)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Festive Frosting:

• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk (whole milk works best)
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2-3 drops red food coloring (optional for holiday spirit)
• Crushed peppermint candies for garnish

Essential Equipment:

• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Baking sheets
• Wire racks
• Measuring cups and spoons

Foolproof Steps for Perfect Holiday Cookies

I recommend reading through all steps before starting to ensure your Peppermint Meltaways turn out as tender and flaky as intended.

Step 1: Using an electric mixer, cream butter and confectioners’ sugar for 3-4 minutes until mixture is pale and doubled in volume. Beat in peppermint extract until fully incorporated. The mixture should look almost white and fluffy.

Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture on low speed, mixing just until a soft dough forms. Don’t overmix or your cookies will be tough instead of tender.

Step 3: Cover dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, until firm to the touch. This chilling step prevents spreading and creates the signature crumbly texture.

Step 4: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Using slightly damp hands to prevent sticking, roll chilled dough into walnut-sized balls (about 1 tablespoon each). Place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets.

Step 5: Bake for 9-11 minutes, until edges are just set but centers still appear slightly underbaked. Cookies will look very pale on top and barely set when done – they continue cooking on the hot pan.

Step 6: Transfer immediately to wire racks and cool completely before frosting. Warm cookies will melt the frosting.

Step 7: For frosting, beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, milk, peppermint extract, and food coloring. Frosting should hold its shape but spread easily – add milk 1 teaspoon at a time if too thick.

Step 8: Spread frosting over cooled cookies and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies. Let set for 15 minutes before serving.

Holiday Pairings That Make These Cookies Shine

These delicate Peppermint Meltaways pair beautifully with warm winter beverages and complement rich holiday desserts perfectly.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate: The double mint flavor creates a cozy winter experience that guests remember long after the party ends.

Vanilla Chai Tea: The warming spices in chai provide a sophisticated contrast to the cool peppermint that feels both comforting and elegant.

Eggnog Latte: The rich, creamy texture balances the light, crumbly cookie for a perfect holiday afternoon treat.

Sparkling Cranberry Juice: For non-coffee drinkers, the tart cranberry enhances the sweet mint while keeping the pairing festive and bright.

Red Wine Mulled Cider: The warming spices and fruit notes create an adults-only pairing that’s perfect for evening holiday gatherings.

Smart Storage Solutions for Maximum Freshness

I recommend storing your Peppermint Meltaways in airtight containers at room temperature where they maintain their delicate texture for up to one week.

These cookies freeze beautifully for up to one month when stored in freezer-safe containers with parchment paper between layers. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. For best texture, enjoy within 2-3 days of baking, though they remain perfectly acceptable for gifting through the full week.

Pro tip: I always store frosted and unfrosted cookies separately to prevent the frosting from making the cookies soggy. Layer them with parchment paper and they stay gift-ready for days.

Create a Magical Holiday Dessert Experience

These peppermint meltaways offer the perfect refreshing finish to any holiday meal, but they’re even better when part of a coordinated dessert spread. The cool mint flavor pairs beautifully with rich chocolate treats like our winter wonderland chocolate chip cookies—serve them together for the classic mint-chocolate combination that guests crave. For an elegant presentation, arrange these delicate cookies alongside our sophisticated cranberry pistachio shortbread cookies.

Balance the lightness of these meltaways with more substantial treats like our creamy mini Christmas cheesecakes, which provide a rich contrast to the delicate mint flavor. And when you really want to wow your guests, pair these sophisticated cookies with our playful Santa hat chocolate cupcakes, the combination of elegant and whimsical desserts ensures there’s something special for every taste preference at your holiday gathering.

Common Questions About These Holiday Favorites

Your New Holiday Baking Tradition Awaits

These Peppermint Meltaways prove that the most memorable holiday treats don’t require complicated techniques or exotic ingredients. With their cloud-like texture and festive peppermint flavor, they capture everything magical about December baking. The combination of simplicity and elegance makes them perfect for both casual family nights and formal holiday entertaining.

Try this recipe this weekend and discover why these delicate cookies have become my most requested holiday treat!

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