Irresistibly Soft Peppermint Meltaways

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like how simple yet elegant these cookies are. They don’t take much time, and the dough comes together quickly. I find them perfect for holiday cookie trays, gifting to friends, or enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa by the tree. They’re light, soft, and full of holiday cheer, which makes them one of my seasonal favorites.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch

Frosting:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
1–2 tablespoons milk (as needed)
Crushed candy canes, for garnish

Directions

1. I preheat my oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. In a mixing bowl, I cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, then stir in the peppermint extract.

3. I gradually add the flour and cornstarch, mixing until the dough is fully combined.

4. Using a tablespoon, I scoop portions of dough, roll them into balls, and place them on the baking sheets. I gently flatten each ball slightly.

5. I bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, making sure the edges are set while the tops remain pale. Then, I let them cool completely on a wire rack.

6. For the frosting, I cream the butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and milk until it reaches a spreadable consistency.

7. Once the cookies are cool, I frost them and top with crushed candy canes for a festive finish.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 24 cookies. It takes around 15 minutes to prepare, 12 minutes to bake, and a total of 27 minutes to complete.

Variations

• I sometimes swap the peppermint extract in the dough for vanilla, then keep the peppermint flavor only in the frosting.

• I like to drizzle melted white chocolate on top before sprinkling the candy canes for an extra festive touch.

• For a colorful variation, I stir a drop of red or green food coloring into the frosting.

• I occasionally make them without frosting, just rolling the dough in powdered sugar before baking for a simpler version.

Storage/Reheating

I keep these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If I want them to last longer, I refrigerate them for up to a week. They also freeze well—I store them in layers separated by parchment paper for up to 2 months. I let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, I like to bake them a day in advance and frost them just before serving.

Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, I freeze the dough balls unbaked and then bake them straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

How do I keep the cookies soft?

I store them in an airtight container and sometimes add a slice of bread inside to help maintain softness.

Can I use peppermint candies instead of candy canes?

Yes, I crush peppermint candies the same way and use them for topping.

Can I make these without peppermint extract?

Yes, I replace it with vanilla or almond extract for a different flavor profile.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but I reduce or skip adding extra salt if the recipe calls for it, since salted butter already has enough.

Do I need to refrigerate the dough before baking?

No, the dough doesn’t require chilling, which makes these quick to prepare.

Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?

Yes, I often use a hand mixer to cream the butter and sugar, and it works just as well.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

I look for edges that are set while the tops remain pale—they should not brown.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, I double it easily when baking for parties or gifting.

Conclusion

I love how these Peppermint Meltaways bring the holiday season to life with their soft texture and refreshing peppermint flavor. They’re simple to make, beautifully festive, and always a hit wherever I bring them. Whether I’m baking for my family, a holiday party, or to give as gifts, these cookies never fail to spread cheer.