Peppermint Meltaway Cookies: The Holiday Cookie You’ll Crave Year-Round

If there’s one cookie that never makes it past day two in our holiday cookie tin, it’s Peppermint Meltaway Cookies. These buttery little snowballs with a hint of peppermint and a cool, creamy frosting take me back to my grandmother’s kitchen where every December smelled like vanilla, sugar, and candy canes. I remember sitting at the counter, sneaking the peppermint pieces when I was supposed to be helping. They were her secret ingredient—the finishing touch on cookies that truly melted in your mouth. Now, I’ve made them my own. This guide will show you how to perfect them, from dough to drizzle. Whether you’re a holiday baker or just craving something festive, these cookies will become your go-to favorite.

Let’s dive in and make Peppermint Meltaway Cookies your next obsession.

The Origins and Obsession Behind Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

What Makes a Meltaway Cookie, Melt?

The name says it all—these aren’t your average cookies. Peppermint Meltaway Cookies dissolve like magic on the tongue, thanks to a high butter content and a fine-textured flour like cornstarch or powdered sugar. The fat-to-flour ratio creates that tender, airy crumble that disappears without chewing. Unlike traditional drop cookies, meltaways require no eggs and minimal mixing. They’re a buttery dream come true with a seasonal peppermint twist that adds brightness and festive flair.

If you’ve ever tried melt-in-your-mouth whipped shortbread cookies, you already know how satisfying this texture can be. That same tender bite meets peppermint coolness in this version, making them irresistible.

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The Holiday Flavor That Stole the Show

Peppermint is a seasonal flavor superstar, showing up in everything from hot cocoa to ice cream. But in cookies? It’s a game-changer. These cookies don’t rely on overpowering extracts. A light touch of peppermint flavor, both in the dough and the frosting, brings balance. Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes add texture and a hint of sparkle, making them both festive and flavorful.

If you’ve ever tried melt-in-your-mouth whipped shortbread cookies, you already know how satisfying this texture can be. That same tender bite meets peppermint coolness in this version, making them irresistible.

Now that you understand what makes these cookies so unique, let’s get to the fun part: making them.

Crafting the Perfect Peppermint Meltaway Cookie Dough

The Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating the ideal Peppermint Meltaway Cookies starts with keeping things simple. You don’t need any fancy equipment—just a bowl, a mixer, and a few pantry staples:

• Butter: Use unsalted and room temperature for best results.
• Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Cornstarch: The secret weapon for soft, crumbly cookies.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure without making the cookies tough.
• Peppermint Extract: Just a touch goes a long way.
• Salt: A small pinch balances the sweetness.
• Crushed Peppermint Candies: Optional, but they add texture and festive color.

If you’ve ever baked chocolate chip pecan cookies, you know how the right balance of fat and texture makes all the difference. This dough works the same way—skip the eggs and let the butter do the magic.

How to Mix and Chill the Dough

You’ll cream the butter and sugar until it’s fluffy, then slowly incorporate the flour and cornstarch mixture. Peppermint extract goes in last. Don’t overmix—just until it holds together. The dough will be soft, but that’s expected.

Wrap it in plastic wrap and chill for at least an hour. This prevents spreading and helps the cookies maintain their perfect dome shape when baked. If you’re familiar with cinnamon roll cookies, you’ll know that chilling is what keeps delicate doughs from falling apart.

When ready, scoop into one-inch balls, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake at 350°F for about 11–13 minutes. They should look matte but not browned.

Let them cool completely before frosting—or you risk a peppermint puddle.

The Frosting and Finishing Touches

Peppermint Icing That’s Creamy and Crisp

A great Peppermint Meltaway Cookie isn’t finished without a silky peppermint frosting on top. The contrast of buttery base and cool, sweet topping is what makes these cookies truly next level.

To make the frosting:

• Mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 1–2 tablespoons of milk (or heavy cream) until smooth.
• Add ¼ teaspoon of peppermint extract.
• Tint with a tiny drop of pink food coloring if you want that signature holiday pop.

Spread a dollop on each cookie and sprinkle with crushed peppermint. The result is a soft, creamy top that sets with a slight crust—just enough to stack or store.

For an even more festive flair, try techniques you might use with strawberry pop-tart cookies, where color and presentation really matter. A little pink or red can elevate them from everyday cookie to holiday star.

Storage Tips for Maximum Freshness

Once your cookies are frosted, allow them to sit at room temperature until the icing sets. Store in a single layer or with wax paper between stacked cookies in an airtight container.

At room temperature, they’ll stay fresh for 4–5 days. Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months and frost fresh before serving.

Like with peanut butter chocolate thumbprint cookies, keeping toppings intact during storage is key. Don’t stack too soon or the frosting will smudge.

And remember, the texture of these cookies is delicate—handle with care and they’ll deliver the same magical meltaway experience every time.

Flavor Variations and Creative Twists

Chocolate-Dipped Peppermint Meltaways

Want to dress these cookies up even more? Dip them halfway in melted chocolate after frosting and drying. White chocolate complements the peppermint perfectly, while dark chocolate offers a more elegant finish.

You can even drizzle chocolate over the top, like you might with monster cookie bars, for added visual texture and richness. Add crushed peppermint after dipping, before the chocolate sets.

This variation adds a layer of indulgence without taking away from the original flavor profile. It’s a great way to transform a simple cookie into a party showstopper.

Add-Ins and Toppings to Try

While Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are delightful as-is, don’t be afraid to experiment. Try folding mini chocolate chips or finely chopped white chocolate into the dough. You can even add a sprinkle of sanding sugar before baking for a glittery crunch.

Taking cues from crumbl oreo cookie copycat recipes, you could also sandwich two cookies with a peppermint buttercream center for a twist on whoopie pies.

Keep the peppermint as the star but have fun with form. These cookies are versatile enough to handle it.

Serving Up the Final Words on Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies aren’t just a seasonal treat—they’re a memory, a moment, a melt-in-your-mouth celebration wrapped in buttery bliss. Whether you’re a baking newbie or a holiday dessert pro, these cookies deliver big flavor with minimal fuss. They’re the kind of sweet you bake once and crave forever. From their crumbly soft texture to that fresh peppermint zing, they’re everything you want in a winter cookie.

If you’re looking to expand your cookie collection, try pairing these with double chocolate crinkle cookies or classic peanut butter blossoms for a festive cookie tray everyone will rave about. Whether enjoyed with hot cocoa or shared at a holiday party, Peppermint Meltaway Cookies will be the cookies people remember.

FAQ: Peppermint Meltaway Cookies