Peppermint Meltaways: 5 Easy, Irresistible, Festive Cookies

Peppermint Meltaways are my family’s favorite quick holiday bite—the kind of treat I reach for when life is busy but the season still deserves a little sparkle. As a busy mompreneur who crafts simple, cozy desserts for handy kitchens, I’ve learned that small steps and a shout of peppermint can turn a weeknight into a festive moment. In this guide, you’ll discover how to make soft, delicate cookies topped with peppermint frosting and festive crushed candy canes—perfect for gifting or sharing with friends and neighbors. Read on for practical tips, flexible substitutions, and storage ideas so you can enjoy the season without the stress.

what makes Peppermint Meltaways special

Peppermint Meltaways are my holiday lifeline when the schedule feels chaotic. I reach for these soft, delicate cookies because they deliver peppermint joy with almost no fuss. They melt in your mouth and leave a whisper of frosting, a tiny festive sigh. For busy moms and professionals, this recipe is a quick path to a tray of cheer. One bowl, a few ingredients, and ten minutes of hands-on time can brighten a week. It’s like gifting yourself calm amid the chaos. Best of all, Peppermint Meltaways come together without drama, just peppermint magic.

A tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that fits a busy schedule

That soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture happens because of a simple balance of butter and cornstarch. The result is a delicate crumb that feels indulgent but easy. Each bite is light, not greasy, and never crumbly in a messy way. I love how the dough comes together in minutes, then chills and bakes with minimal effort. While they cool, the peppermint aroma fills the room like a holiday hug. It’s the kind of texture that makes you called to the kitchen, not away from it.

A holiday classic with minimal effort and maximum joy

Peppermint Meltaways are a holiday classic that delivers big flavor with tiny effort. The peppermint note stays fresh, bright, and balanced. A sprinkle of crushed candy canes on top adds sparkle and crunch. Because the base stays soft, you can frost soon after cooling for a glossy finish. This means less time spent babysitting hot trays and more time for cocoa, carols, or cozy conversations with friends. It’s the kind of cookie that feels like a warm welcome at gatherings.

Why this recipe works for busy moms and professionals

One bowl, quick steps, and make-ahead options fit a hectic life. You can prep the dough now and bake later, or bake a small batch for tonight’s treat. The frosting can be made ahead and kept chilled until ready to finish cookies. Peppermint Meltaways scale up for a crowd, or tuck neatly into gift tins with little effort. It’s practical joy you can count on when time is short but the season isn’t.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Meltaways

Peppermint Meltaways are my quick holiday cheer on busy days. They come together fast, with soft centers and a peppermint kiss.

It feels festive without the stress.

Quick to mix, easy to bake

Quick to mix, easy to bake, this recipe fits a tight schedule.

One bowl, a few minutes of stirring, and dough is ready.

The bake fills the kitchen with peppermint notes.

Light, peppermint-bright flavor that isn’t overpowering

The peppermint flavor stays bright but balanced.

It’s festive without overpowering the crowd.

Ingredients Peppermint Meltaways

Here are the exact ingredients you’ll need for Peppermint Meltaways. I’ve kept the measurements precise, with short explanations to help you plan and source what you have in your pantry. Optional tweaks are noted, and a printable print-ready list lives at the bottom of the article.

Core dough

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened — room-temp butter gives a smooth, tender dough.
• ½ cup powdered sugar — provides sweetness and a delicate crumb.
• 1 tsp peppermint extract — peppermint brightness without overpowering the cookie.
• 1¼ cups all-purpose flour — the structure that holds the delicate crumb.
• ½ cup cornstarch — helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• ¼ tsp salt — balances sweetness and boosts flavor.

Peppermint frosting and topping

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened — creamy base for the frosting.
• 2 tbsp milk or cream — adds smoothness and helps frosting set nicely.
• 1 cup powdered sugar — sweet, glossy frosting texture.
• ½ tsp peppermint extract — keeps frosting bright and fresh.
• Crushed candy canes for topping — festive crunch and color.

Notes on ingredients

• Optional: a pinch more peppermint extract for a stronger cool note.
• Make-ahead tip: ingredients with exact quantities are at the bottom of the article and printable.

How to Make Peppermint Meltaways

Step 1: Prep and cream the dough

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.

Beat butter and powdered sugar until light and creamy. This base feels soft and luxurious.

With Peppermint Meltaways, the texture matters—silky dough yields a delicate bite every time.

Step 2: Add peppermint and combine dry ingredients

Mix in peppermint extract. It brightens the cookies without overpowering them.

In a separate bowl, whisk flour, cornstarch, and salt. Then blend into the butter until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Shape and bake

Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on the sheet.

Bake 10–12 minutes, until the bottoms are lightly golden. Cool completely.

Tip: Cool on a rack to prevent frosting from softening too quickly.

Step 4: Make the peppermint frosting

Beat butter until smooth. Then add powdered sugar, milk or cream, and peppermint extract until creamy.

If the frosting seems stiff, add a splash more milk to loosen it slightly.

Step 5: Frost and finish

Frost cooled cookies and sprinkle with crushed candy canes. Let the frosting set before storing.

Peppermint Meltaways are ready to shine on a holiday plate or gift tin. The frosting will gloss beautifully once it sets.

Tips for Success

• I use softened butter for a smoother dough and even bake.
• I avoid overmixing after adding dry ingredients to keep cookies tender.
• I ensure cookies are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
• I gently crush candy canes for a festive crunch.
• If frosting sets too quickly, I loosen with a splash of milk.
• Plan ahead by letting frosting rest at room temperature for a few minutes before applying.

Equipment Needed

• Mixer (electric or stand) — for Peppermint Meltaways, cream butter and sugar fast.
• Mixing bowls (two) — dry and wet.
• Parchment-lined sheet — easy release, quick cleanup.
• Measuring cups and spoons — precise measuring.
• Silicone spatula — for scraping.
• Global alternative: whisk and wooden spoon — works without power.

Variations Peppermint Meltaways

• Dairy-free frosting: I swap in dairy-free butter and almond milk to keep Peppermint Meltaways glossy and peppermint-bright without dairy.
• Gluten-free option: I use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and add a touch more cornstarch to preserve that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• White chocolate drizzle: I melt white chocolate and drizzle over the frosting for extra sweetness and a pretty sheen.
• For extra peppermint: I bump the peppermint extract by ⅛–¼ tsp to suit strong-flavor lovers without overpowering the cookie.
• Cranberry twist: I roll the dough in finely chopped dried cranberries before baking for a festive, tart counterpoint to the mint.

Serving Suggestions Peppermint Meltaways

These cookies shine with easy, cozy pairings that I love for the season.

• Serve with hot cocoa or coffee for a peppermint glow.
• Gift on festive platters wrapped in parchment and ribbon.
• Pair with vanilla ice cream for a simple holiday dessert.
• Present on a decorative tray for last-minute guests.

Make Ahead and Gift Ideas with Peppermint Meltaways

I love turning Peppermint Meltaways into thoughtful gifts as easily as I bake them. When the calendar is crowded, planning ahead is my secret ingredient. These cookies stay tender and bright, so I can send sweetness to friends without last-minute chaos.

Here’s how I stretch these holiday delights beyond a single bake session. Freeze the dough, prep frosting in advance, and assemble gift tins that feel like a hug in a box.

• Dough freezes well for up to 2 months. Portion into 1-inch balls, flash-freeze on a sheet, then transfer to a labeled bag. Bake from frozen; plan for 1–2 extra minutes.
• Frosting can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature and re-whip to smoothness. If it stiffens, whisk in a splash of milk.
• Gift-ready assembly—stagger cookies and a small peppermint-kissed frosting jar in a decorative tin. Include a tiny spoon and a printed note with tips and storage ideas.
• Labeling matters. Clearly label with “Peppermint Meltaways” and a best-by date so your recipient knows when the peppermint magic is at its peak.

On weeks when time is truly tight, I bake a big batch, freeze the dough, and pull it out as needed. A quick bake, frosting, and ribbon turns a rushed afternoon into a thoughtful moment for someone I care about.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Peppermint Meltaways turn a chaotic week into a gentle pause of peppermint joy. I reach for these cookies when time is tight but celebration is not optional. The soft centers, light frosting, and candy-cane crunch feel like a warm wink from the kitchen. I love how one batch yields smiles from neighbors, teachers, and teammates alike, without stealing my precious evening. These cookies travel beautifully in tins and freeze well for last-minute gifts. In my busy life, they show that flavor and heart can coexist with a simple, unfussy routine. Peppermint Meltaways remind me that sweet moments matter everyday, too.

Print