Peppermint Meltaways - Tasteful Zone

There’s something magical about baking during the holiday season. The warmth of the oven, the scent of peppermint wafting through the air, and the joy of sharing homemade treats with loved ones—it’s pure bliss. As someone who loves both cooking and creating recipes that bring people together, I can confidently say that Peppermint Meltaways are a must-try for anyone looking to add a festive touch to their dessert table. These delicate, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying with their refreshing peppermint flavor and creamy glaze.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a treat that feels indulgent and special. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, gifting cookies to friends, or simply treating yourself, Peppermint Meltaways are sure to impress. The combination of buttery shortbread, cool peppermint, and a sweet glaze makes these cookies irresistible. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your holiday baking repertoire.

What You Need To Make This Recipe

Butter: The foundation of these meltaways, butter gives the cookies their rich, tender texture. Make sure to use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of the recipe. Room-temperature butter is key for easy mixing.

Powdered Sugar: This fine sugar adds sweetness and helps create the melt-in-your-mouth texture. It’s also used in the glaze to give it a smooth, creamy consistency.

All-Purpose Flour: The main dry ingredient, flour provides structure to the cookies. Be sure to measure it accurately to avoid a dough that’s too dry or too sticky.

Cornstarch: This secret ingredient is what makes the cookies truly “melt” in your mouth. It lightens the texture and gives them their signature delicate crumb.

Peppermint Extract: The star of the show, peppermint extract infuses the cookies and glaze with that refreshing, holiday flavor. A little goes a long way, so measure carefully.

Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile, balancing the peppermint and adding depth to the cookies.

Salt: Just a pinch of salt enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness of the cookies and glaze.

Crushed Peppermint Candies: These add a festive crunch and a pop of color to the glaze. They’re also perfect for garnishing the cookies.

Ingredients List

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature
½ cup powdered sugar, plus more for the glaze
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup cornstarch
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup crushed peppermint candies (for garnish)

For the glaze:

1 ½ cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
½ teaspoon peppermint extract

How to Make Peppermint Meltaways

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the peppermint extract and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies

Using a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon, portion the dough into small balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently press down on each ball to slightly flatten it.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just barely golden. Be careful not to overbake, as these cookies should remain light in color.

Step 4: Cool the Cookies

Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk; if it’s too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar.

Step 6: Glaze and Garnish

Dip the top of each cooled cookie into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies while the glaze is still wet. Let the glaze set completely before serving.

Tips for Making This Recipe

Use room-temperature butter for easier mixing and a smoother dough.
Don’t overmix the dough, as this can make the cookies tough.
For a more intense peppermint flavor, add an extra ¼ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough.
If you don’t have peppermint candies, you can use candy canes instead.
Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They’ll stay delicious for up to a week.
For a festive touch, add a drop of red food coloring to the glaze.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Can I freeze Peppermint Meltaways?
Absolutely. These cookies freeze well both before and after glazing. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

Can I use peppermint oil instead of extract?
Yes, but use it sparingly. Peppermint oil is much more concentrated, so start with just a few drops and adjust to taste.

Why are my cookies spreading too much?
This could be due to overly soft butter or undermeasured flour. Make sure your butter is at room temperature (not melted) and measure your flour accurately.

Can I skip the glaze?
While the glaze adds a lovely sweetness and festive touch, you can skip it if you prefer a simpler cookie.

Enjoy making these delightful Peppermint Meltaways, and happy baking!