Peppermint Meltaways yield 5 amazing festive tasty cookies.

Peppermint Meltaways are my holiday answer to the age-old struggle: how to deliver a show-stopping treat without spending every free moment in the kitchen. As a busy mom and recipe developer behind this site, I learned that the most loved cookies are the ones that melt in your mouth, leave just a whisper of peppermint, and dusted in snowy sugar. These cookies came from a late-night craving for something delicate yet sturdy enough to travel in a tote to a holiday potluck. They keep well in a jar, party- perfect for gifting, and they pair beautifully with coffee or cocoa. If you want something festive, fast, and kid-friendly, Peppermint Meltaways are for you. Let’s bake them together.

what make this Peppermint Meltaways special

As a busy home cook, I love a recipe that shines without draining me. Peppermint Meltaways are my quick solution for holiday moments that deserve something special. The cookies are softly sweet, melt in your mouth, and dusted with snowy sugar. They travel well, gift nicely, and pair perfectly with coffee or cocoa. That makes them a little moment of magic in a busy season.

A warm introduction to a delicate holiday cookie

I imagine a snowy afternoon as I roll the dough. The cookie feels luxurious yet forgiving. That balance keeps me coming back for more.

Texture, flavor, and a snowy finish

Its texture is tender, not crumbly, and rich with butter. A gentle peppermint note lingers without overpowering. Dusting with powdered sugar gives a snowy finish.

Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Meltaways

Easy, quick bake for busy days

I love how Peppermint Meltaways disappear from the plate as coffee cools. You mix, roll, and bake in about 20 minutes. No fuss, no waiting, just soft, snowy cookies that fit into a busy day and a tote.

The minty, melt-in-your-mouth moment

When I bite in, the butter slides away, the peppermint whispers, and the snow-like sugar clings. It’s a delicate moment that delivers comfort without heaviness — a small pause in a jam-packed day.

Ingredients Peppermint Meltaways

Peppermint Meltaways start with simple, high-quality ingredients that do the heavy lifting. I love that these cookies come together quickly, yet feel festive. Keep this list handy for a quick shopping trip or a printout to bring to the store.

These six items form the base dough, giving tenderness and structure. I keep the salt minimal to let the peppermint shine. The cornstarch is the secret to that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Core ingredients for the base dough

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened — creates a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar — adds light sweetness and a creamy crumb.
• 1 tsp peppermint extract — delivers the signature mint aroma and flavor.
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour — provides structure and body.
• 1/4 cup cornstarch — keeps the cookie soft and delicate.
• 1/4 tsp salt — balances sweetness and enhances depth.

Note: Exact quantities are printed at the bottom of the article and available for printing. This section shows the core ingredients you need now.

Optional add-ins and finishing touches

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar for rolling — helps the sugar cling when warm, then sets snowy.
• Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (optional) — adds color and a pleasant crunch.
• Gluten-free option — use 1 3/4 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour plus 1/4 cup extra cornstarch.
• Peppermint extract substitution — if needed, 3 to 4 drops peppermint oil, used sparingly.
• Dairy-free version — swap in dairy-free butter and ensure the powdered sugar is dairy-free.

How to Make Peppermint Meltaways

Step 1 — Preheat, line pans, and gather

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Gather butter, powdered sugar, peppermint extract, flour, cornstarch, and salt.

These Peppermint Meltaways bake quickly for a busy schedule.

Tip: Have all ingredients measured and ready

Step 2 — Cream butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy

Cream butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

A smooth base lets the cookies melt in your mouth.

Note: Adequate creaminess is key to melt-in-your-mouth texture

Step 3 — Add peppermint extract

Beat in peppermint extract until evenly incorporated.

A little goes a long way for a gentle mint glow.

Caution: Do not overbeat after adding the flavor

Step 4 — Stir in dry ingredients (flour, cornstarch, salt)

Whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt in a separate bowl.

Fold into the butter mixture until a soft dough forms.

Insight: The dough should be soft and just-tacky

Step 5 — Roll into 1-inch balls and place on parchment-lined sheets

Roll dough into 1-inch balls.

Place on prepared sheets, spacing evenly.

Tip: Space evenly for uniform baking

Step 6 — Bake 10–12 minutes, until just set (not browned)

Bake until the edges are pale and delicate.

Cookies should be just set, not browned.

Note: Cookies will continue to firm as they cool

Step 7 — Cool for 5 minutes, then gently roll cookies in powdered sugar

Cool on the sheet for 5 minutes.

Gently roll in powdered sugar while warm.

Trick: Roll while warm to help sugar adhere

Step 8 — Once fully cooled, roll again in powdered sugar

Dust a second time for a snowy finish.

Let them rest so the sugar sets nicely.

Finishing touch: A snowy coating

Step 9 — Optional: sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies

Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies if you like.

They add color and a pleasant crunch.

Presentation: Adds color and crunch

Tips for Success

Quick tips for best texture and flavor

• Soften butter completely for Peppermint Meltaways, a smooth base.
• Sift powdered sugar to avoid gritty, sandy coating.
• Chill dough 15 minutes if soft.
• Bake until just set, pale, not browned ever.
• Keep dough creamy, don’t overbeat after adding flavor, ever.

Quick troubleshooting tips

• Chill dough longer if cookies spread badly.
• Add 1–2 tsp water if dough is crumbly.
• Re-roll cookies in sugar after they cool.
• If coating cracks, dust gently with more sugar.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls (one large for dough, one for dry ingredients).
• Electric mixer or sturdy wooden spoon for creaming butter.
• Measuring cups and spoons.
• Parchment-lined baking sheets for Peppermint Meltaways.
• Rolling surface and a small cookie scoop.
• Cooling rack for finished cookies.
• Shallow bowls for powdered sugar.
• Optional: Sifter or mesh sieve.

Essential tools for Peppermint Meltaways

• Large mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or hand mixer
• Measuring set
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or spoon
• Cooling rack

Handy alternatives if you’re missing something

• Use a sturdy whisk if you don’t own a mixer.
• Replace parchment with a silicone baking mat.
• Crush peppermint by placing in a resealable bag and tapping with a pan.

Variations

Flavor and texture twists

• Chocolate peppermint twist: swap 2 tablespoons of flour with 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder. The cookies stay tender and the mint pops a little more. I love them with a mug of cocoa.
• Citrus-peppermint spark: add 1 teaspoon orange zest and a splash of vanilla. The bright citrus wakes up the peppermint without overpowering it.
• Double peppermint: bump the peppermint extract to about 1¼ teaspoons. I spoon these onto trays with a sly wink of extra mint—perfect for mint lovers.
• Crunchy finish: roll in powdered sugar once while warm, then roll again after cooling. For extra crunch, press a few crushed peppermint candies into the sugar.
• Spiced peppermint: tiny pinch of cinnamon or cardamom in the dry mix adds warmth that pairs beautifully with mint.
• Dipping glaze: after baking, dip half the cookie in melted white chocolate and sprinkle a little extra sugar. It makes a festive glaze that sets as it cools.

Dietary adaptations and substitutions

• Gluten-free: use 1 3/4 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour plus 1/4 cup extra cornstarch for the melt-in-your-mouth feel.
• Dairy-free: swap in dairy-free butter and ensure the powdered sugar is dairy-free; check labels for cross-contact.
• Vegan: use vegan butter and a vegan-approved powdered sugar; most peppermint extracts are vegan, but double-check the label.
• Lower sugar: reduce the dough sugar to 1/3 cup and add a teaspoon of water if the dough seems dry.
• Nut-free: these cookies are naturally nut-free, but use nut-free powdered sugar if your kitchen has traces of nuts.
• Flavor swaps: if peppermint isn’t your cup of tea, try spearmint or a drop of almond extract with a touch of vanilla for a different, still festive profile.

Serving Suggestions

Pairings and presentation ideas

• Peppermint Meltaways pair perfectly with coffee, cocoa, or peppermint tea.
• Arrange on a snowy platter with extra dusting of powdered sugar.
• Showcase in clear tins or bags for easy gifting at parties.

Hosting and gifting ideas

• Gift a small tin of Peppermint Meltaways with a handwritten tag.
• Set out a festive cookie bar for guests to mingle and munch.
• Label storage tips: keep in an airtight jar at room temp 3–4 days.

Make-Ahead Tips for Festive Mint Cookies

As I juggle work, school runs, and dinner, Peppermint Meltaways save the day. Batch ahead to keep the festive sparkle without last-minute chaos. I save the extra time for hugs, not hassle.

Make-ahead dough and make-ahead baked cookies

Make the dough in advance to free up crunch time. I usually chill the dough for up to two days in the fridge. The dough firms yet stays tender, ready to bake when needed.

Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and freeze on a parchment-lined tray. Transfer once solid to a labeled freezer bag for long storage. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the bake time.

Freezing, thawing, and freshening up the finish

Alternatively, bake the cookies now and freeze the baked cookies for gifting. Store baked Peppermint Meltaways in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature and refresh with a light dusting of powdered sugar.

Freezing is a lifesaver for holiday hosting. Freeze both dough and baked cookies for later gifting or last-minute guests. Label packages with date and contents for easy planning.

FAQs for Peppermint Meltaways

Can I freeze Peppermint Meltaways before baking?

Yes. You can freeze the dough before baking. After shaping into 1-inch balls, place them on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid.

Transfer to a labeled freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the bake time. No thawing needed for a quick future bake.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes. Use 1 3/4 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour plus 1/4 cup extra cornstarch for the melt-in-your-mouth texture. This keeps the cookies tender and light.

Check that your gluten-free blend includes xanthan gum if needed. If you have a preferred gluten-free mix, you can use that with the same measurements.

How should I store the cookies for freshness?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies and thaw at room temperature when needed.

Dust with a fresh layer of powdered sugar if they look a little dull. Keep them away from strong aromas to preserve the peppermint flavor.

Why did mine crack or crumble?

This usually happens if the dough is too dry or the cookies overbake. It can also occur if you overbeat after adding the dry ingredients.

Fix it next time by measuring flour accurately, chilling the dough briefly, and baking until just set. Gently re-roll any crumbly pieces in powdered sugar before baking again if needed.

Can I substitute different extracts or flavors?

Absolutely. Peppermint pairs well with several flavors. Use 3–4 drops peppermint oil if extract isn’t available.

Try spearmint for a milder mint, or add 1 teaspoon orange zest with vanilla for a citrus twist. If you love extra mint, you can go up to 1¼ teaspoons of peppermint extract.

Final Thoughts

The joy of sharing and gifting Peppermint Meltaways

Watching Peppermint Meltaways disappear at gatherings feels like a tiny victory, earned with simple ingredients and a sprinkle of patience. I love packing them in tins, tying a ribbon, and watching friends smile at the snowy coating. They travel well, stay soft, and somehow make a busy season feel calmer and warmer.

A quick, elegant cookie to trust for holidays

I reach for Peppermint Meltaways when I need a finish line cookie—fast, elegant, and crowd-pleasing. One bowl, quick bake, powdery kiss of sugar, then the peppermint whisper takes over. It’s a small ritual I trust to show up beautifully, even on the most chaotic weeknights for every home.

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