Peppermint Meltaways are Unbeatable, Easy, Tasty in 25.

what make this Peppermint Meltaways special

Peppermint Meltaways are my fast, elegant solution for busy days. They melt in your mouth and travel beautifully for gifting. With a simple mix and minimal mess, I can prep before bedtime.

I love doubling the batch for friend gifts, then freezing half for the month ahead. The peppermint scent fills my kitchen like a winter parade, even when schedules clash. I stash them in tins and label them, instantly ready for swap.

Texturally, these cookies are soft and delicate, a melt that feels like holiday magic. They rely on butter and cornstarch for that tender bite. A whisper of peppermint keeps it bright rather than bold.

This recipe fits a busy lifestyle and gifting moments. Make a batch in under an hour; freeze, wrap, and share. These Peppermint Meltaways are tiny moments of joy.

what make this Peppermint Meltaways special

Introduction to Peppermint Meltaways

Peppermint Meltaways are my go-to quick treat for busy days.
I reach for them when the calendar is crowded and emotions need a tiny sweetness.
They taste special with almost no drama, perfect for gifting or a weeknight treat.

Texture and sensory appeal of Peppermint Meltaways

They feel delicate, like bite-sized snow.
Butter and cornstarch create a soft, forgiving crumble that melts.
A kiss of peppermint brightens without overpowering the cookie’s mild sweetness.

How this recipe fits a busy lifestyle and gifting moments

I know this recipe fits a hectic schedule with quick steps and minimal cleanup.
I bake a batch, chill briefly, and tuck into tins for thoughtful gifts.
I stash extras in the freezer for last-minute Peppermint Meltaways and sweet surprises.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Meltaways

Peppermint Meltaways fit my busy days like a cozy apron. I love treats that feel luxe but stay simple. These cookies shine at cookie exchanges and gifting moments. They melt in your mouth with a soft, butter-kissed crumb. In minutes, I whip up a batch. Then tuck extras into tins for gifting.

Speedy bake-and-assemble benefits of Peppermint Meltaways

Peppermint Meltaways come together fast with a forgiving dough—perfect for me.

Shape, bake, and enjoy in under 25 minutes.

Consistent melt-in-your-mouth texture with peppermint brightness

Its delicate crumb stays soft, thanks to butter and cornstarch.

Peppermint adds a bright note that lasts.

Ingredients Peppermint Meltaways

Here’s everything you’ll need to make Peppermint Meltaways. I keep these ingredients on hand so I can whip up a batch in a pinch. Exact quantities are printed at the bottom for easy printing.

Dough ingredients for Peppermint Meltaways

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened — adds tenderness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• ½ cup powdered sugar — sweetens without a gritty feel.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract — brings warm, cozy notes to the dough.
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour — provides structure for the cookies.
• ½ cup cornstarch — gives a delicate, tender crumb.
• ¼ tsp salt — balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• ½ tsp peppermint extract — bright peppermint flavor without being overpowering.

Peppermint frosting ingredients

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened — base for a smooth frosting.
• 2 tbsp milk or cream — helps the frosting spread evenly.
• 1½ cups powdered sugar — sweet, creamy body for the glaze.
• ½ tsp peppermint extract — adds a refreshing peppermint bite.
• Crushed peppermint candies for topping — optional crunch and festive look.

Optional notes on substitutions and storage tips

• If dairy-free, swap in plant-based butter and almond milk — maintains the same texture.
• For extra peppermint punch, increase peppermint extract to taste — go cautiously.
• Exact quantities are printed at the bottom of the article for convenient printing.

How to Make Peppermint Meltaways

Step 1 – Preheat and prepare (Peppermint Meltaways dough starts here)

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment. This keeps the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easy.

Step 2 – Cream butter and sugar

I beat butter and powdered sugar until light and creamy, building the delicate meltaway texture you expect.

Step 3 – Add flavorings

I add vanilla and peppermint extract until evenly combined, letting the peppermint scent brighten the dough.

Step 4 – Whisk dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, I whisk flour, cornstarch, and salt. This dry mix gives the cookies their tender crumb.

Step 5 – Form soft dough

I add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and blend until a soft dough forms. Don’t overwork it.

Step 6 – Shape and bake

I roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared sheets. Space them evenly for uniform baking.

Step 7 – Bake until pale and set

I bake for 10–12 minutes until the tops are pale and the cookies are soft. Cool completely before frosting.

Step 8 – Prepare the frosting

I beat butter, milk, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract until smooth and glossy. This frosting is light enough to melt on your tongue.

Step 9 – Finish and decorate

I spread a small amount of frosting on cooled cookies and top with crushed peppermint for a festive finish.

Tips for Success

Quick prep and mixing tips

• I soften butter in advance so mixing goes fast for Peppermint Meltaways.
• Have powdered sugar ready to keep the dough smooth.
• For Peppermint Meltaways, adjust peppermint extract sparingly to taste.
• Keep dough in a cool spot as you work to prevent sticking.

Baking cues and texture checks

• Bake until tops are pale and set; avoid browning for meltaways.
• Let cookies chill completely before frosting to prevent melting.

Frosting timing and layering notes

• Frost cooled cookies for neat edges and smooth glaze.
• If frosting thickens, whisk in a splash of milk.

Equipment Needed

Essential tools for Peppermint Meltaways

• Parchment-lined baking sheets
• Two mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or sturdy whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack
• Rubber spatula and small offset spatula
• Airtight containers for storage

Helpful substitutions if you’re missing equipment

• Damp parchment substitute: lightly greased baking sheet or silicone mat
• Regular whisk works if you don’t have an electric mixer
• Plastic bag with a small corner cut creates a makeshift piping bag

Variations

Peppermint Meltaways with dark chocolate drizzle

• I drizzle warm dark chocolate in a zigzag for drama and flavor.
• Use 70% cacao for a sophisticated bite that clashes nicely with peppermint.
• Short on time? Dip half the cookie in melted chocolate and set it quickly.

Peppermint Meltaways with white chocolate and crushed candy canes

• I top with white chocolate drizzle or a white glaze for a snowy look.
• Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top while frosting is soft for crunch.
• White chocolate keeps things light and festive without overpowering peppermint.

Dairy-free Peppermint Meltaways using vegan butter

• I swap in vegan butter and dairy-free milk to keep the melt.
• Expect a slightly crisper crumb; chill the dough a bit to hold shape.
• Choose a peppermint extract labeled dairy-free; some brands vary.

Citrus twist Peppermint Meltaways (zest of orange or lemon)

• Add 1–2 teaspoons citrus zest to dough for brightness.
• Combine peppermint with orange or lemon for a fresh holiday twist.
• Start with small zest amounts to avoid overpowering peppermint.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation ideas for holiday trays

I love laying Peppermint Meltaways on a festive tray. They shine beside almond cookies and citrus shortbread.

Nest parchment between layers and tuck the tray into a gift box.

A sprig of rosemary or a dusting of edible glitter adds a wintery touch.

Pairings with beverages and seasonal menus

Pair Peppermint Meltaways with hot cocoa, peppermint hot chocolate, or a creamy coffee.

They also pair nicely with a light cheese board or mulled cider for a casual gathering.

Serve them as a post-dinner treat to close a festive meal.

Peppermint Meltaways: Make-Ahead and Gift Ideas

Freezing dough and baked cookies for busy weeks

Peppermint Meltaways freeze beautifully, saving time on busy weeks.
I pre-portion dough into small disks and freeze them for quick baking.
When a craving hits, I bake a fresh batch in minutes.

Cookies can be frozen baked or uncooked.
For dough, seal tightly in a freezer bag and label with the date.
For baked cookies, flash-freeze on a sheet, then transfer to airtight containers.

Thaw or bake from frozen when time stays tight.
I add a minute or two to bake time if needed.
Label packages with serving size and storage dates for gifting.

Gift-ready packaging and labeling tips

Gift-ready Peppermint Meltaways shine in tins or clear boxes.
I line each layer with parchment to prevent sticking.
A festive ribbon and a handwritten note add charm.

Include a simple storage card noting shelf life and best-by date.
Add serving suggestions like “great with cocoa or coffee.”
Print a small ingredient list for those with allergies or preferences.

Label clearly with the date baked and the date to rotate stock.
Consider small gift tags with care instructions for freshness.
Deliver warmth with a tiny peppermint twist in the packaging.

FAQs

Can I freeze the dough before baking Peppermint Meltaways?

I absolutely do. Peppermint Meltaways dough freezes well.

After mixing, roll into discs, then wrap tightly or seal in a freezer bag.

Label with the date and keep for up to 1–2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes.

Can I adjust peppermint intensity in Peppermint Meltaways?

Yes. I start with ½ tsp peppermint extract and mix softly.

If you want brighter, add a touch more—but go slow to avoid bitterness.

You can also boost peppermint flavor with the crushed candies on top or in the frosting.

How should I store Peppermint Meltaways to stay fresh?

Keep baked cookies in an airtight container with parchment between layers.

At room temperature, they stay soft for several days.

For longer storage, freeze either baked cookies or the dough and rewarm as needed.

Can I substitute cornstarch in Peppermint Meltaways?

Cornstarch gives that delicate melt. You can try arrowroot or potato starch as a 1:1 substitute.

Expect a slightly different texture; for best results, keep cornstarch if possible.

If you don’t have substitutes, you can add a bit more flour, but the melt may be less pronounced.

Final Thoughts

The comfort of a quick holiday treat with Peppermint Meltaways

I’ve found that Peppermint Meltaways turn busy days into tiny celebrations. Their soft bite and peppermint brightness feel like a hug in a bite-sized cookie. The recipe travels well, making gifts easy even when time slips away. And yes, the cleanup is gentle, which keeps the holiday spirit intact.

Encouraging gifting, sharing, and savoring these meltaway cookies

Sharing these meltaway cookies is how I turn a simple plate into connection. I love watching friends steady their mugs and smile when the peppermint scent wafts. Gifts disappear fast, but the memory lingers like cozy carols. Let them be a tiny daily reminder that warm taste travels fast.

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