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Peppermint Meltaways Recipe

4.9 from 73 reviews

Peppermint Meltaways are delicate, buttery cookies infused with a refreshing peppermint flavor and topped with a creamy peppermint frosting and crushed peppermint candies. These festive treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want a sweet, minty delight.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cookies

  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Frosting

  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 23 drops red food coloring (optional)
  • Crushed peppermint candies, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the peppermint extract for a festive aroma.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture, blending until a soft dough forms.
  3. Chill the Dough: Cover and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes to ensure the cookies hold their shape when baked.
  4. Shape the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly browned. Transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely.
  6. Prepare the Frosting: In a small bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually mix in confectioners’ sugar, milk, peppermint extract, and food coloring (if desired) until smooth and spreadable.
  7. Decorate: Spread frosting over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies. Let the frosting set before serving.

Notes

  • Make sure to chill the dough to prevent spreading during baking.
  • Use crushed peppermint candies for garnish to add extra crunch and festive appearance.
  • You can omit food coloring if you prefer a natural frosting color.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
  • If you prefer a stronger peppermint flavor, add a bit more peppermint extract to the dough or frosting.

Keywords: Peppermint cookies, butter cookies, peppermint frosting, holiday cookies, mint desserts