Description

These peppermint meltaways are buttery, tender cookies with a refreshing hint of peppermint, finished with a creamy glaze and crushed peppermint candies. Perfect for the holidays and gifting.

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup cornstarch

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (for glaze)

2 tablespoons milk (or dairy-free milk)

1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (for glaze)

Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes, for topping

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
Mix in the peppermint extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until fully incorporated.
Cover the dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract until smooth to make the glaze.
Spoon the glaze over cooled cookies and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.
Allow glaze to set before serving.

Notes

Make sure cookies are fully cooled before glazing to prevent glaze from running.

Store unglazed cookies in the freezer for up to 3 months; glaze after thawing.

Crush peppermint candies in a zip-top bag using a rolling pin or meat mallet.

Dough can be made ahead and chilled overnight; let sit at room temperature before rolling.

Use gluten-free flour and dairy-free butter/milk for gluten-free or vegan versions.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 145
Sugar: 11g
Sodium: 35mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 20mg