Name: Melting Peppermint Meltaway Cookies for a Festive Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free blend); 0.5 cups Cornstarch (Essential for melt-in-your-mouth texture); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (For vegan, use dairy-free butter); 0.5 cups Powdered Sugar; 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (Adjust to taste); 1 pinch Salt (Enhances sweetness); 1 large Egg (Use egg replacement for vegan option); 1 cup Crushed Candy Canes (Highly recommended for festive touch)

The aroma of peppermint might just be the most magical scent of the holiday season. As I whipped up a new batch of Peppermint Meltaway Cookies, I felt a lovely nostalgia wash over me. These delicate, buttery treats have a melt-in-your-mouth texture that captivates everyone who takes a bite. They’re not just visually stunning with their colorful crushed candy cane topping; they perfectly balance the sweetness and refreshing zing of peppermint, making them an irresistible addition to your festive celebrations. What I adore about this recipe is its versatility—it can easily adapt to be gluten-free or vegan, opening the cookie jar to everyone at the holiday table. Plus, with minimal prep time, they’re a perfect choice for busy bakers looking to spread joy without stress. Ready to discover how to elevate your holiday baking with these delightful cookies? Let’s get started!

Why Are Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Special?

Melt-in-your-mouth goodness: These cookies are designed to dissolve blissfully on your tongue, leaving you yearning for more.

Festive flair: The beautiful candy cane topping adds cheer, making them a showstopper for any holiday platter.

Easy alternatives: Whether you need a gluten-free option or a vegan twist, this recipe has you covered for everyone to indulge!

Quick prep: With minimal hands-on time, whipping up a batch is perfect for busy lifestyles or last-minute gatherings.

Crowd-pleaser: They’re sure to impress guests, making your holiday celebrations even more memorable.

Ready to spread joy? Try these meltaway wonders and check out our Banana Oatmeal Cookies for more delightful baking inspiration!

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Ingredients

• Everything you need for melt-in-your-mouth bliss!

For the Cookie Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure needed for these delightful cookies; swap with a gluten-free blend if desired.
Cornstarch – This ingredient is essential for that coveted melt-in-your-mouth texture; don’t skip it!
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; for a vegan alternative, use dairy-free butter.
Powdered Sugar – Contributes sweetness and a smooth texture for your cookies.
Peppermint Extract – Elevates the festive flavor; feel free to adjust according to your taste.
Salt – A little balance goes a long way in enhancing the sweetness of your cookies.
Egg (or egg replacement for vegan) – Acts as the binding agent; choose the right alternative for your vegan version.

Optional Garnish

Crushed Candy Canes – For that festive touch and an extra burst of peppermint flavor; this is optional but highly recommended!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a consistent baking temperature for your Peppermint Meltaway Cookies. While the oven warms, gather your ingredients and baking sheets. Lining the sheets with parchment paper will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and ½ cup of powdered sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3–4 minutes. This step is key for a tender meltaway texture, so give it the time it needs to become airy and pale.

Step 3: Add Flavor
Once your butter and sugar are well combined, mix in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Stir on low speed to prevent splattering, until the extract is fully incorporated. This will infuse your dough with that delightful peppermint flavor, essential for your Peppermint Meltaway Cookies.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed just until the dough starts to come together, being careful not to overmix, as this helps maintain the melt-in-your-mouth quality of the cookies.

Step 5: Form the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows room for the cookies to spread while baking. Don’t worry if they look a bit rough; they’ll smooth out in the oven.

Step 6: Flatten and Garnish
Gently flatten each dough ball with the bottom of a glass or your fingers. If desired, sprinkle the tops with crushed candy canes for an extra festive touch. This not only adds a wonderful presentation but also intensifies the peppermint experience in your Peppermint Meltaway Cookies.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake your cookies for 10–12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; the edges should be lightly golden, but the centers should remain soft and slightly underbaked. This will ensure they maintain that meltaway texture you love.

Step 8: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, remove the sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Afterward, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period is crucial to avoid any moisture buildup, keeping your Peppermint Meltaway Cookies perfectly tender.

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your Peppermint Meltaway Cookies to suit your taste or dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delightful, inclusive treat.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter in place of unsalted butter for a vegan-friendly option everyone can enjoy.
Chocolate Twist: Replace half of the flour with cocoa powder for a rich, chocolatey meltaway version that pairs beautifully with peppermint.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor that complements the buttery base.
Candy Cane Surprise: Mix crushed candy canes directly into the dough instead of just using them as a garnish, giving every bite a peppermint burst.
Flavor Switch-Up: Replace peppermint extract with almond or vanilla extract for a whole new flavor profile that’s equally delightful.
Minty Matcha: For a unique twist, add matcha powder to the dough for a refreshing green tea flavor and a vibrant color.
Cooling Citrus: Mix in a teaspoon of orange zest for a zesty, refreshing contrast to the peppermint, making these cookies a vibrant treat.

Ready to embrace the versatility of holiday baking? Don’t forget to check out our Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies and bring even more joy to your cookie jar!

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Fridge: If you prefer a chilled cookie, keep them in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Just allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to indulge, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes to regain that delightful softness.

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy their delightful flavor with less stress. You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. For even longer storage, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the chilled or frozen dough onto baking sheets and proceed with the recipe as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the freezer. This way, you’ll have fresh, buttery cookies on hand whenever the holiday craving strikes, all while maintaining that melt-in-your-mouth quality!

Expert Tips for Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Room Temperature Butter: Let your butter sit out until it’s soft for optimal creaming. Cold butter won’t blend well, affecting the cookie’s melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining your dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing develops gluten, which can lead to tougher cookies.
Mind the Baking Time: Keep a close eye while baking; the cookies should be lightly golden at the edges while remaining soft in the center. Overbaking can rob them of their delightful meltaway quality.
Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them. This step helps prevent moisture buildup, keeping your Peppermint Meltaway Cookies tender.
Experiment with Substitutes: If you wish to go gluten-free or vegan, be sure to use the appropriate substitutes like gluten-free flour or dairy-free butter. The right options can still yield delicious results!
Crushed Candy Cane Application: If you want more peppermint flavor, consider adding crushed candy canes inside the dough as well as on top for a beautiful and tasty garnish.

What to Serve with Peppermint Meltaway Cookies?

Imagine a warm holiday gathering filled with laughter and sweet aromas, where Peppermint Meltaway Cookies steal the spotlight!

Rich Hot Chocolate: This classic beverage offers a creamy, chocolatey contrast that enhances the refreshing peppermint flavor, creating cozy moments by the fire.
Festive Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies while keeping your holiday spread bright and colorful.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, smooth texture of vanilla ice cream is a delightful counterpart, melting into the cookies for a truly indulgent dessert experience.
Spiced Gingerbread Cake: The warm spices from gingerbread harmonize beautifully with peppermint, making for an inviting dessert pairing that’s full of holiday cheer.
Peppermint Tea: Continue the peppermint theme with a calming cup of tea that refreshes the palate after enjoying these delightful cookies.
Mini Cheesecakes: Their creamy richness complements the light, crumbly texture of the cookies, providing a satisfying contrast that guests will love.
Holiday Punch: A light, zesty punch with citrus notes brings a festive flair to your table, making it a refreshing option alongside the sweet cookies.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: The combination of sweet chocolate and tart strawberries pairs exquisitely with the meltaway texture of the cookies, offering a decadent treat.
Almond Biscotti: The crunchiness and nutty flavor of biscotti provide an enjoyable texture contrast, perfect for dipping in coffee or tea alongside your cookies.

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right ingredients for my Peppermint Meltaway Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose high-quality unsalted butter, as it adds richness and flavor. When selecting your peppermint extract, opt for a pure extract for a more aromatic and intense flavor. If possible, ensure your flour is fresh—using a gluten-free blend works perfectly, too! Just look for one that’s specifically designed for baking to achieve that meltaway texture.

How should I store my Peppermint Meltaway Cookies to keep them fresh?
To maintain the lovely texture of your meltaway cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Be sure they’re completely cooled before sealing, as this prevents any moisture buildup that can cause them to become soggy!

Can I freeze my Peppermint Meltaway Cookies? If so, how?
Yes! Freezing is a great way to extend the life of your cookies. Place your cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container lined with parchment paper. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months—simply thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!

What should I do if my cookie dough is too crumbly?
If your dough seems too crumbly and won’t hold together, don’t fret! This can happen if the butter wasn’t softened enough or if too much flour was added. To fix it, simply add a little more butter, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until it comes together. Ensure you’re measuring your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off—this can help prevent future crumbliness!

Are there any dietary considerations for my Peppermint Meltaway Cookies?
Very! These cookies can easily be adapted for various dietary needs. To make them gluten-free, use a blend that’s specifically for cookies. If you’re looking for a vegan option, use dairy-free butter and an appropriate egg replacement, such as applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes). These adjustments will keep your cookies delicious and inclusive for everyone to enjoy!