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Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe


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4.9 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 1x

Description

Delightful Peppermint Meltaway Cookies bring festive cheer with their delicate, buttery texture melting gracefully on your palate. Crisp peppermint hints and powdered sugar coating create a winter wonderland of sweet perfection that will charm holiday gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (226 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 ¼ cups (156 grams) all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup (60 grams) cornstarch

Sweeteners and Flavorings:

  • ½ cup (60 grams) powdered sugar
  • 1 cup (120 grams) powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
  • ½ teaspoon peppermint extract

Finishing and Decoration:

  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons milk (plus more as needed)
  • Optional: red or green gel food coloring
  • Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 350F (175C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper for optimal cookie placement.
  2. Cream butter and powdered sugar in a large mixing bowl until the mixture becomes airy and voluminous, creating a smooth foundation for the cookie dough.
  3. Incorporate peppermint extract into the butter mixture, then gradually fold in flour, cornstarch, and salt, mixing until ingredients are just harmoniously combined.
  4. Using a small scoop or spoon, form 1-inch dough balls and arrange them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them approximately 2 inches apart to allow for gentle spreading.
  5. Gently flatten each dough ball using the back of a spoon or fingertips, creating a uniform surface for even baking.
  6. Slide the baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, watching for delicate golden edges that signal perfect doneness.
  7. Remove cookies from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to stabilize their structure, then carefully transfer to a wire cooling rack.
  8. Prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract in a small bowl until achieving a smooth, silky consistency.
  9. Adjust the glaze thickness by adding milk in small increments if needed, and optionally introduce a hint of color with gel food coloring.
  10. Once cookies have completely cooled, drizzle or spoon the glaze over each cookie, creating an elegant finish.
  11. Immediately garnish with crushed candy canes or peppermint candies while the glaze remains wet, ensuring the decorative topping adheres perfectly.

Notes

  • Ensure butter is softened at room temperature for smooth, creamy mixing without lumps.
  • Use high-quality peppermint extract for a more intense, authentic flavor profile.
  • Avoid overmixing the dough to prevent tough, dense cookies; stop mixing once ingredients are just combined.
  • For gluten-free adaptation, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to maintain texture.
  • Chill dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading and create more defined cookie shapes.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to maintain their delicate texture.
  • Customize decoration by using white chocolate drizzle or colored sprinkles for festive variations.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 24
  • Calories: 133
  • Sugar: 10 g
  • Sodium: 50 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 16 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 31 mg