Name: Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 59 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (16 Tbsp; 226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 2/3 cup (80g) confectioners’ sugar; 1 egg yolk, at room temperature; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract; 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 6 Tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, softened; 1 and 1/2 cups (180g) confectioners’ sugar; 1–2 Tablespoons milk, at room temperature (dairy or nondairy); 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract; optional: 1 drop red or pink food coloring; 1/4 cup (40g) crushed candy canes (about 2–3 large candy canes)

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 32 reviews

If you have a soft spot for cookies that practically melt the moment they touch your tongue, then you are going to adore this Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe. This festive favorite combines the delicate texture somewhere between shortbread and cake-like crumb, with the refreshing zing of peppermint throughout. Thanks to the magical duo of cornstarch and confectioners’ sugar, each bite is irresistibly tender and sweet, perfectly embodying cozy holiday joy. Whether for gifting or indulging yourself, these cookies will quickly become a seasonal staple you can’t wait to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. At the center bottom is a large glass bowl filled with light beige flour, and next to it on the right is a slightly smaller glass bowl containing white confectioners' sugar with a smooth texture. Above the flour bowl is a medium-sized glass bowl with white cornstarch, finely powdered. To the left, there are two sticks of yellow butter wrapped in paper. On the top right, a small white bowl holds white baking powder, and below it is a small white bowl with fine white salt. Near the middle right is a white scalloped bowl with a bright yellow egg yolk inside. At the bottom left, there is a small glass cup with dark brown vanilla extract. Finally, a small clear glass container at the top right holds clear peppermint extract. All items are spaced neatly and clearly labeled. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple yet essential, each ingredient in this Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe plays a critical role—from creating that tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture to infusing every chew with sweet, cool flavor.

Unsalted butter (1 cup; 226g): Softened to room temperature, butter ensures a rich, creamy base critical for that classic meltaway texture.
Confectioners’ sugar (2/3 cup + 1.5 cups): Ground super fine to create a silky dough and to sweeten the buttercream without grit.
Egg yolk (1): Adds moisture and helps bring the dough together for a perfect tender crumb.
Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon + 1/2 teaspoon): A balanced vanilla note that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering peppermint.
Peppermint extract (1/2 teaspoon + 1/4 teaspoon): The star flavor here, providing that refreshing holiday kick in both cookie and frosting.
All-purpose flour (2 cups; 250g): The structure of the cookie comes from here, spooned and leveled for accuracy.
Cornstarch (1/4 cup; 30g): Key to achieving that “meltaway” softness by lightening the flour’s gluten effect.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise just enough without becoming cakey.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and elevates all flavors.
Milk (1 to 2 Tablespoons): Adds the perfect consistency to the buttercream, adjustable based on your desired frosting thickness.
Crushed candy canes (1/4 cup): Adds a delightful crunch and festive look when sprinkled on top.
Optional food coloring (1 drop): For a subtle hint of holiday color in your buttercream.

How to Make Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by beating the softened butter on medium speed until creamy and smooth, about one minute. Next, add confectioners’ sugar and begin mixing on low to avoid clouding, then crank up the speed to medium-high and whip until the mixture is airy and fluffy—typically 2 minutes. This step is essential because it incorporates air, setting the stage for those light, tender cookies you’re craving.

Step 2: Add the Egg Yolk and Extracts

With the mixer running on high, beat in the egg yolk, pure vanilla extract, and peppermint extract. These moisture and flavor injections give the dough richness while layering that distinctive peppermint note that will shine through in the final product.

Step 3: Combine Your Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. This prevents overdeveloping gluten, which keeps your cookies soft. The dough will look thick and creamy—a good sign!

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover your dough tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though up to 3 days is perfect if you want to prep ahead. Chilling is not an option here because it helps the butter firm up and the flavors meld, which ultimately makes the cookies hold their shape and have that signature meltaway texture.

Step 5: Prepare to Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with either parchment paper or silicone mats—this protects the delicate bottoms from browning too quickly. Next, scoop the dough into roughly one-tablespoon balls, spacing them 3 inches apart. Flatten each ball just under 2 inches in diameter with your palm; this encourages even baking.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake the cookies for about 13 to 14 minutes. Watch carefully since they won’t brown—edges should just set. Once out of the oven, let them rest on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling fully is crucial for frosting success.

Step 7: Make the Peppermint Buttercream

It’s time to make the luscious frosting! Beat softened butter until creamy, then slowly add confectioners’ sugar, milk, vanilla, and peppermint extracts. Mix thoroughly, then adjust sweetness or texture by adding more sugar or milk. If desired, stir in a drop of food coloring for a dash of festive cheer.

Step 8: Frost and Decorate

Spread a generous layer of peppermint buttercream atop cooled cookies using a knife or spatula. Finally, sprinkle crushed candy canes over the frosting for crunch, color, and that unmistakable holiday sparkle.

How to Serve Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe

A white wire cooling rack filled with two rows of small, round, light beige cookies at the bottom and one row near the top spread with pink frosting, with some pink sprinkles on top of the frosting. Above the cookies is a small white ceramic bowl with pink sprinkles and a white bowl with pink frosting and a black spreading knife resting in it. To the left, a white kitchen towel with gray stripes is partially visible on a white marbled surface, along with two candy canes laid down beside it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A light dusting of additional confectioners’ sugar over the finished cookies can mimic freshly fallen snow, adding a magical touch. Fresh peppermint leaves or whole candy canes on the serving tray also add visual appeal and a hint of holiday fragrance that complements the cookies.

Side Dishes

Pair your Peppermint Meltaway Cookies with a warm cup of cocoa or a peppermint mocha for a cozy combo that amplifies the minty goodness. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes an indulgent side that balances the buttery sweetness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange these cookies in a decorative tin tied with a festive ribbon for charming gifts. Or build a cookie platter layered with red and white napkins and accented with fresh evergreen sprigs to bring holiday spirit straight to your table. You can also sandwich frosting between two cookies for a cute peppermint cookie sandwich variation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your frosted cookies covered at room temperature for up to one day to maintain that perfect softness. If you want to stretch their life, refrigerate up to five days, but allow them to come back to room temperature before enjoying for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

The best freezing method is to freeze unbaked cookie dough balls after flattening. Seal tightly in an airtight container or zip-top bag and freeze up to three months. When ready, bake straight from frozen, adding just a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. Avoid freezing baked cookies as the texture tends to degrade and lose its meltaway magic.

Reheating

To gently refresh cookies that have been refrigerated or frozen, warm them in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This revives softness without crisping the edges. If from frozen, allow cookies to thaw at room temperature first before warming for best results.

FAQs

Can I substitute peppermint extract with something else?

If you don’t have peppermint extract, you could try spearmint or vanilla extract alone, but be aware the signature holiday peppermint flavor will be less pronounced. For the full experience of the Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe, peppermint extract is highly recommended.

Why is cornstarch important in this recipe?

Cornstarch softens the cookie’s texture by limiting gluten formation, creating that melt-in-your-mouth feel. Skipping cornstarch would yield a denser, less tender cookie, so it’s a small but crucial ingredient.

Can these cookies be made vegan?

You can adapt this recipe by using vegan butter and a suitable egg substitute such as a flax “egg.” Make sure to select dairy-free milk for the frosting, and verify your sugar and peppermint extract are vegan-friendly. The texture might differ slightly but will still be delicious.

How can I make these cookies more festive?

Adding red or green food coloring to the buttercream creates playful holiday colors. You might also mix in some edible glitter or use small holiday-themed sprinkles alongside the crushed candy canes for extra sparkle.

What should I do if my dough feels too sticky?

Slight stickiness is normal due to the butter content, but if too wet, chill it longer before shaping. If it still feels unmanageable, sprinkle a tiny bit more flour until it reaches a workable consistency without overdoing it, or the texture may be compromised.

Final Thoughts

This Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe is a treasured holiday treat that truly delivers on taste and texture. The tender, buttery cookies paired with cool peppermint buttercream provide a perfect sweet moment that feels festive yet comforting. I promise once you try them, these meltaway delights will become your go-to cookie season after season. So gather your ingredients, warm up your mixer, and get ready to share some holiday magic with every single bite!