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I can't help but smile when my kitchen fills with the sweet minty aroma of these Peppermint Meltaways. Each December these little treasures become my signature holiday cookie. The way they literally melt in your mouth with that perfect balance of buttery sweetness and cool peppermint makes them absolutely irresistible. They've become such a cherished part of my holiday baking that friends start asking for them before December even begins.
What Makes These So Special
These cookies have become my holiday secret weapon. The texture is pure magic they quite literally dissolve on your tongue. The peppermint gives them such a wonderful holiday spirit and the recipe is so forgiving that even my not so precise measurements turn out beautifully every time. I love how versatile they are whether I'm making them for a cozy night in or packaging them up as gifts.
Let's Gather Our Cookie Ingredients
- Butter: A whole cup softened to perfection makes these melt like clouds.
- Confectioners' Sugar: Half a cup creates that dreamy smooth sweetness.
- Peppermint Extract: Just half a teaspoon brings the holiday magic.
- All-Purpose Flour: One and a quarter cups gives us that perfect cookie base.
- Cornstarch: Half a cup is my secret for that melt in your mouth texture.
- Salt: A quarter teaspoon makes all the flavors sing.
The Frosting That Makes Them Sparkle
- Butter: Two tablespoons softened for that perfect creamy base.
- Confectioners' Sugar: A cup and a half makes it sweet and spreadable.
- Milk: Two tablespoons to get that perfect consistency.
- Peppermint Extract: A quarter teaspoon adds that extra minty magic.
- Red Food Coloring: Just a few drops if you want that festive pink tint.
- Crushed Peppermints: My favorite finishing touch for sparkle and crunch.
Let's Start Baking
- First the basics:
- Get your butter and sugar nice and fluffy then add that wonderful peppermint extract.
- Mix with love:
- Whisk your dry ingredients together then slowly mix them in until you've got a soft lovely dough.
- Patience pays off:
- Let your dough chill in the fridge it makes such a difference in handling.
- Shape and bake:
- Roll into cute little balls pop them in the oven and watch for that slight golden color.
- Make them pretty:
- While they cool whip up your frosting. Once they're ready frost them and add those crushed peppermints.
Mix It Up
I love playing with this recipe. Sometimes I add a bit of cocoa for chocolate lovers or orange zest for a fresh twist. My latest discovery was mixing crushed candy right into the dough it creates such delightful surprises in every bite.
My Best Baking Tips
Take time getting your butter perfectly soft it makes mixing so much easier. That chilling step might seem tempting to skip but it really helps the cookies keep their shape. Watch them carefully in the oven they should be just barely golden.
Keep Them Fresh
These beauties stay perfect for a week in an airtight container. I often make double batches and freeze some for later. When I'm giving them as gifts I love using pretty holiday tins or clear bags tied with festive ribbons.
Serving Suggestions
Nothing beats these cookies with a steaming mug of hot cocoa. I love setting them out at holiday parties next to other treats like chocolate dipped shortbread. A sprinkle of edible glitter or drizzle of chocolate makes them even more festive.
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A Holiday Essential
These Peppermint Meltaways have become such a special part of my holiday season. Every time I make them they bring joy whether shared at family gatherings tucked into gift boxes or enjoyed quietly with a cup of tea. They're truly one of those recipes that makes the holidays feel complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why do these cookies need to be chilled?
Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. It also allows the butter to firm up, preventing spreading.
- → Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cookies ahead and store them in an airtight container. For best results, add the frosting and candy cane topping just before serving.
- → Why use cornstarch in the cookie dough?
Cornstarch makes the cookies extra tender and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture that gives these cookies their name.
- → How should I store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Place wax paper between layers if frosted to prevent sticking.
- → Can I freeze these cookies?
The unfrosted cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before frosting and adding the candy cane topping.