Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

The smell of peppermint always reminds me of Christmas, and these Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are a tradition in my house. There’s just something so comforting about that cool, minty flavor melting in your mouth. I’ve made this recipe countless times in my kitchen here in Texas, and they’re always a hit with my family and friends. From the first bite, you’ll get a delicious buttery flavor with a refreshing peppermint kick. They’re so festive, and I know you will love them, so get ready to bake up a batch that will bring smiles to everyone this holiday season!

Why This Recipe Works

Being a busy mom, I need recipes that are easy, delicious, and don’t take all day to make. These Peppermint Meltaway Cookies fit the bill perfectly! Here’s why I think you’ll love this recipe:

• Easy to Make: This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward instructions.
• Kid-Friendly: My kids love helping me roll the dough in powdered sugar.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can make the dough in advance and bake the cookies when you’re ready.
• Festive and Fun: The peppermint flavor and powdered sugar coating make these cookies perfect for the holidays.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus more for rolling
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (optional)

Ingredient Notes

Butter: Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. This will help the cookies have a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. I always use unsalted butter, but if you only have salted, omit the 1/4 teaspoon of salt in the recipe.

Peppermint Extract: Use a good quality peppermint extract for the best flavor. You can find it in the baking aisle of most grocery stores. If you want a stronger peppermint flavor, you can add a little more extract, but be careful not to add too much, or it will taste medicinal.

Peppermint Candies: Crushed peppermint candies add a festive touch and extra peppermint flavor. You can use candy canes or peppermint candies. Just put them in a Ziploc bag and crush them with a rolling pin or meat mallet.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps prevent the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, powdered sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. You want the mixture to be smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Stir in the peppermint extract. Be careful not to add too much, as it can overpower the other flavors. Start with 1 teaspoon and add a little more if desired.

Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. This ensures that the salt is evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can make the cookies tough. After testing this several times, I learned that a slightly under-mixed dough yields the most tender cookies.

Step 6: If using, gently fold in the crushed peppermint candies. I usually save some to sprinkle on top as well!

Step 7: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Then, roll each ball in powdered sugar until completely coated. The powdered sugar gives the cookies a beautiful, snowy appearance.

Step 8: Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. This gives them enough room to spread out while baking.

Step 9: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The centers should still be soft. They will continue to set up as they cool.

Step 10: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking.

Expert Tips from My Kitchen

• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
• Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft to roll, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before rolling.
• Even Baking: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Let your kids help roll the dough in powdered sugar for a fun and festive activity.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Let it come to room temperature slightly before rolling.
• Prevent Spreading: If your cookies are spreading too much, try chilling the dough or adding a tablespoon or two of flour.
• Extra Peppermint Flavor: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with extra crushed peppermint candies for an extra festive touch. My kids especially love this.

Storage & Meal Prep

Storage: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Make-Ahead: The dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Let it come to room temperature slightly before rolling and baking.

Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Substitutions & Variations

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free. I haven’t tested this myself, but I have had success with King Arthur’s Measure for Measure flour in other recipes.

Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free butter substitute to make these cookies dairy-free. Be sure the butter substitute is solid, not a spread.

Chocolate Peppermint: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolate peppermint version. I love drizzling melted dark chocolate on top of these!

Other Extracts: Experiment with other extracts, such as vanilla, almond, or lemon, for different flavor variations. A hint of orange extract can also be amazing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Let it come to room temperature slightly before rolling and baking. You can also bake the cookies ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden brown, and the centers are still soft. They will continue to set up as they cool.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but omit the 1/4 teaspoon of salt in the recipe.

Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Are these cookies kid-friendly?

Absolutely! My kids love helping me make these cookies, especially rolling the dough in powdered sugar.

What can I use if I don’t have peppermint extract?

While peppermint extract provides the best flavor, you could try using a few drops of peppermint essential oil (food grade only!) or a strong peppermint tea infusion. However, the extract is the most reliable option.

Serving Suggestions

These Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are delicious on their own, but here are a few serving suggestions to make them even more special:

• Serve them with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot cocoa.
• Add them to a holiday cookie platter.
• Package them up as a gift for friends and neighbors.
• Sprinkle a little extra crushed peppermint on top right before serving.

These cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a way to bring a little bit of joy and connection into your home, especially during the busy holiday season. Whether you’re baking them with your kids or enjoying them by the fire with a cup of cocoa, I hope these Peppermint Meltaway Cookies become a cherished tradition for your family. I hope you try this recipe and share your experience. Don’t hesitate to share your bakes in the comments below! Also, be sure to check out my other cookie recipes or sign up for my newsletter for more family-friendly inspiration!

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