Name: Peppermint Meltaway Cookies That Simply Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can be substituted with gluten-free flour); 1/2 cup Cornstarch (Enhances the meltaway texture); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (For a vegan option, replace with dairy-free butter); 3/4 cup Powdered Sugar (Can also be used for decoration); 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (Opt for pure extract for the best taste); 1/2 cup Crushed Candy Canes (Optional, for decoration and extra peppermint flavor)

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As I unwrapped the bright red-and-white candy canes sitting on my kitchen counter, a rush of nostalgia washed over me—holiday seasons spent baking with family filled my heart. It’s that warm, festive spirit that inspired my recipe for Peppermint Meltaway Cookies. These delightful treats are not only incredibly easy to whip up but also cater to various dietary needs with gluten-free and vegan options. With a crumbly texture that melts in your mouth and a refreshing peppermint zing, these cookies are a sure crowd-pleaser at any gathering or festive celebration. So, are you ready to fill your home with the delightful scent of holiday baking and create memories, one cookie at a time?

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Why are Peppermint Meltaway Cookies a Must-Try?

Nostalgic Comfort: These cookies evoke warm memories of family baking sessions during the holidays, making them perfect for sharing and creating new traditions.
Versatile Options: With easily adaptable recipes for gluten-free and vegan diets, everyone can enjoy these delicious treats.
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Goodness: Their unique texture delicately melts away, showcasing a rich buttery flavor with a refreshing peppermint kick.
Simple Steps: Even novice bakers will find this recipe straightforward, making it an approachable choice for festive gatherings.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether at holiday parties or cozy family gatherings, these cookies are bound to be a hit. For more holiday cookie inspiration, check out my Brown Sugar Cookies and Caramel Chocolate Cookies!

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to create these delightful treats with these simple yet essential ingredients!

For the Cookies

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; can be substituted with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Cornstarch – Enhances the meltaway texture; this ingredient is crucial for achieving that soft consistency.
Unsalted Butter – Adds rich flavor; for a vegan option, replace it with dairy-free butter.
Powdered Sugar – Brings sweetness and can also be used for decoration; consider low-calorie sweeteners for healthier variations.
Peppermint Extract – Infuses that vibrant peppermint flavor; opt for pure extract for the best taste.
Crushed Candy Canes – Provides decoration and an extra burst of peppermint; totally optional, but they add a festive touch.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by creaming 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and ¾ cup of powdered sugar together in a mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, roughly 3–5 minutes. Next, gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon of pure peppermint extract. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough, ensuring it still has that meltaway texture.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies
Once your dough is ready, scoop out small portions with your hands and roll them into 1-inch balls. Gently flatten each ball using your palm or the bottom of a glass to about ½ inch thick. Arrange them evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they have space between them as they will spread slightly during baking.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you shape the cookies. Once ready, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the Peppermint Meltaway Cookies for 15–20 minutes, or until the edges are just set and the centers remain soft. Watch for the light golden hue on the bottoms as an indicator of doneness.

Step 4: Cool and Decorate
After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled completely, sprinkle the tops with crushed candy canes for a festive touch or dust lightly with more powdered sugar for a sweet finish.

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What to Serve with Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Indulging in a batch of melt-in-your-mouth cookies is just the beginning; let’s build a delightful holiday feast around them!

Creamy Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of rich hot chocolate beautifully complements the peppermint flavors, creating a cozy holiday pairing.
Peppermint Bark: Layered chocolate with festive peppermint adds an extra seasonal touch that harmonizes wonderfully with the cookies’ minty essence.
Fruity Cranberry Salad: The tangy sweetness of cranberries provides a refreshing contrast, balancing the cookies’ sweetness with a delightful zing.
Spiced Chai Tea: Fragrant chai enhances holiday vibes, and its warm spices beautifully complement the cookies’ buttery meltaway texture.
Roasted Nuts: A crunch of roasted almonds or pecans offers a delightful texture contrast, enriching your cookie experience with every bite.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream melts over warm cookies, creating an indulgent dessert that’ll impress any guest.
Fruit Platter: An assortment of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness, making for a light refreshment alongside the rich cookies.
White Chocolate Mocha: This sweet and creamy drink enhances the cookies’ festive vibe, making for a chic coffee date option.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: Decadently sweet strawberries contrast the cookies’ flavors, adding a touch of elegance that’s perfect for celebrations.

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these delightful cookies to suit your taste and dietary preferences!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to accommodate those avoiding gluten. This simple swap keeps the meltaway texture intact.
Vegan Option: Replace the unsalted butter with dairy-free butter or coconut oil for a completely vegan cookie. You won’t sacrifice flavor or texture!
Sweetness Adjustment: Experiment with low-calorie sweeteners like stevia or erythritol instead of powdered sugar for a lighter treat that still satisfies your sweet tooth.
Flavor Infusions: Swap peppermint extract for vanilla or almond extract to create new flavor profiles. Just imagine the warmth of vanilla or the nuttiness of almond!
Nutty Texture: Substitute crushed candy canes with crushed nuts, like pecans or walnuts, adding a delightful crunch and heartiness to your cookies.
Chocolate Twist: Mix in a handful of mini chocolate chips for a rich chocolatey surprise in every bite. The combination of peppermint and chocolate is a classic favorite!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a surprising but delightful heat that perfectly contrasts the sweetness of the cookies.
Dipping Delight: Dip half of each cooled cookie in melted dark or white chocolate for a luscious treat that’s perfect for gifting or special occasions!

For more festive cookie inspiration, don’t forget to check out my Pistachio Cream Cookies and Lemon Pistachio Cookies. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Expert Tips for Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Perfect Butter Texture: Beat the butter and sugar until fluffy; this is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Careful Mixing: Avoid overmixing the dough after adding flour and cornstarch to maintain the tender crumb characteristic of Peppermint Meltaway Cookies.
Cooling is Key: Let cookies cool adequately on the baking sheet; they are delicate when warm, making them prone to breakage.
Don’t Skip Cornstarch: This ingredient is essential for that meltaway quality; omitting it could lead to firmer cookies.
Chill if Needed: If the dough is too soft to roll, chill it for 30 minutes before shaping to make handling easier.

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and either wrapping it tightly or storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you’re aiming for even more convenience, you can also shape the cookies into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your cookies, simply bake the frozen dough without thawing for an extra minute or two. This way, you’ll have that delightful, melt-in-your-mouth goodness with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your Peppermint Meltaway Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a firmer cookie or live in a warm climate, keep them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, ensuring they are in a well-sealed container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy them slightly warm, reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes, allowing their melt-in-your-mouth texture to shine again.

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Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right peppermint extract?
Absolutely! Make sure to select a pure peppermint extract for the best flavor. I recommend avoiding imitation extracts as they may contain artificial flavors that don’t capture that delightful peppermint essence. Look for extracts that highlight natural ingredients for a truly authentic taste.

What’s the best way to store Peppermint Meltaway Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you’re in a warmer climate, or if you prefer them a bit firmer, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just ensure they are sealed well to prevent drying out!

Can I freeze Peppermint Meltaway Cookies?
Yes! Freezing is a great option for these cookies. Start by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they’ll be good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their melt-in-your-mouth texture.

What if my cookie dough is too soft?
Very common! If your dough feels too soft to handle, don’t worry. Simply chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make the dough easier to roll into balls and help maintain the meltaway texture when baked. Just remember, handling the dough carefully avoids overmixing, which ensures those tender cookies!

Are these cookies suitable for people with allergies?
Always a good question! The traditional recipe contains gluten and dairy, but it’s easy to make allergen-friendly alternatives. For gluten-free options, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. To accommodate dairy allergies, substitute unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative. Always double-check ingredients to ensure they fit any specific dietary needs.

How can I make Peppermint Meltaway Cookies more festive?
The more the merrier when it comes to decorations! You can use colorful sprinkles in addition to crushed candy canes for a festive flair. Another fun idea is to drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for an elegant touch. Get creative; these cookies can be as festive as your imagination allows!