If you’re craving a cookie that melts in your mouth with just the right hint of peppermint, you’re going to adore this Peppermint Meltaways Cookies Recipe. I absolutely love how these cookies come out: tender, buttery, and topped with the creamiest peppermint cream cheese frosting. When I first tried making them, I was hooked immediately, and now they’re a staple every holiday season. Stick with me—you’ll find that this recipe is as straightforward as it is delicious, and I’ll share tips to help you get perfect meltaways every time!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Delicately Soft Texture: These cookies literally melt on your tongue thanks to the cornstarch in the dough.
Refreshing Peppermint Flavor: The peppermint extract and crushed candy canes give a festive, cool touch that’s never overpowering.
Perfectly Creamy Frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds that luscious layer that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Easy to Make & Impress: Minimal ingredients, simple steps, and guaranteed happy taste buds at any gathering.

Peppermint Meltaways Cookies Recipe - Recipe Step

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Peppermint Meltaways Cookies Recipe come together in harmony to create that signature melt-in-your-mouth feel. I like to use quality unsalted butter for better flavor control and fresh peppermint extract for the most vibrant taste. Here are a few notes before you shop:

Peppermint Meltaways Cookies Recipe - Ingredients

Unsalted Butter: Softened butter is key here—it helps your dough become tender and lets you control the saltiness perfectly.
Powdered Sugar: This adds just enough sweetness and helps keep the texture fine and smooth.
Peppermint Extract: Use pure peppermint extract (avoid artificial flavors) for that real refreshing zing.
All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure without making the cookies tough.
Cornstarch: The secret weapon for meltaway texture—you won’t want to skip this!
Candy Canes: Crushed on top for both crunch and an extra peppermint boost.
Cream Cheese: For the frosting, softened to blend perfectly with the butter.
Salted Butter: Adds that balanced buttery flavor in the frosting; if you prefer, adjust amount of salt accordingly.
Sifted Powdered Sugar: Ensures a silky, lump-free frosting.

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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of the things I love about this Peppermint Meltaways Cookies Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. You can tweak the peppermint intensity or play with frosting flavors to tailor it to your family’s taste buds. It’s a recipe that invites creativity!

Chocolate Drizzle: I once added melted semi-sweet chocolate drizzled over the frosted cookies. My family went crazy for that extra richness!
Mint Chip Variation: Mixing mini chocolate chips into the dough adds a fun surprise with each bite.
Dairy-Free Option: Swap butter and cream cheese for dairy-free alternatives. Just be mindful that texture will change slightly.
Spicy Peppermint Twist: Adding a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon gives an unexpected yet delightful warmth.

How to Make Peppermint Meltaways Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking the all-purpose flour and cornstarch together in a small bowl. This blend is what gives these cookies their characteristic tender, almost crumbly texture. Setting this aside prepares you perfectly to add it later without overmixing, which can toughen cookies.

Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Peppermint

In another bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar together until it’s light and fluffy—this can take a few minutes but is worth it for that melt-in-your-mouth feel. Then, add the peppermint extract and mix until it’s fully incorporated. I discovered this trick when I realized giving the butter a good beating first makes a smoother dough overall.

Step 3: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients, Chill Dough

Slowly add the flour and cornstarch blend to the wet mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly, scraping down the sides so everything mixes evenly. At this stage, your dough will look soft but not sticky. Here’s a tip: refrigerate your dough for at least an hour. This step not only firms it up for easier rolling but also enhances the flavors.

Step 4: Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll the chilled dough into 1 to 1½-inch balls—having your hands slightly cool helps prevent the dough from softening too much. Place them about 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet since they won’t spread much but still need space. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges just start to turn golden. Don’t rush this! These cookies can underbake easily and lose the meltaway texture if pulled out too early.

Step 5: Prepare the Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cookies cool completely, beat softened cream cheese and salted butter until smooth. Add more peppermint extract if you want a stronger mint flavor here, then gradually sift in the powdered sugar to get that velvety, spreadable consistency. I usually taste as I go—sometimes, a little extra peppermint extract elevates it beautifully.

Step 6: Frost and Garnish

Once cooled, frost each cookie generously with the peppermint cream cheese frosting. Immediately sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for a festive crunch and lovely presentation. Trust me, the contrast between the soft cookie, creamy frosting, and crunchy candy cane is utterly addictive.

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Pro Tips for Making Peppermint Meltaways Cookies Recipe

Keep Butter Soft but Not Melted: If your butter gets too warm, chill the dough again before baking to avoid spreading.
Don’t Skip Refrigeration: Chilling the dough improves texture and flavor. It’s a game-changer I learned the hard way.
Sift Your Powdered Sugar: This keeps your frosting silky smooth, no lumps—super important for a nice finish.
Bake Just Until Edges Brown: Overbaking makes these cookies dry. Watch carefully around 10 minutes.

How to Serve Peppermint Meltaways Cookies Recipe

Peppermint Meltaways Cookies Recipe - Serving

Garnishes

I love using crushed peppermint candy canes not just for flavor but because they add a festive color and a satisfying crunch right on top. Sometimes, I add a tiny sprinkle of edible glitter or festive sprinkles when serving at holiday parties—it makes them pop visually and adds to the fun atmosphere.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with hot cocoa or a peppermint mocha. The creamy, cool notes in the cookie contrast perfectly with warm drinks. I’ve also served them alongside fruit salads during brunch for a sweet surprise that isn’t overwhelming.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gatherings, I arrange these cookies in a wreath shape on a platter and sprinkle crushed candy canes around the edges for a themed display. You could also box them in a clear bag tied with a red ribbon as charming homemade gifts. Presentation really amps up the “wow” factor without extra fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Peppermint Meltaways in an airtight container in the fridge to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh. They stay soft and delicious for up to 5 days this way. If you want the cookies at room temp before serving, just let them sit out for about 15-20 minutes.

Freezing

When I freeze these cookies, I do it before frosting—wrap the baked, cooled cookies tightly in plastic wrap and freeze in a sealed container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature, then frost fresh. This way, the frosting stays fresh and luscious.

Reheating

If you want to warm your cookies slightly, I recommend a quick 10-second zap in the microwave just before frosting (if they’re frozen). For frosted cookies, a few minutes at room temp is best to avoid the frosting melting too much.

FAQs

Can I make Peppermint Meltaways Cookies without cornstarch?

While cornstarch is essential for that meltaway texture, you could try substituting with rice flour or tapioca starch, but results may vary. The cookies might turn out denser or less tender. I’d recommend sticking to cornstarch if you want that classic delicate crumb.
How do I store these cookies if I want to keep them at room temperature?

You can store unfrosted cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Once frosted, I suggest refrigerating to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh. Just let frosted cookies come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Can I use peppermint oil instead of extract?

Yes, but peppermint oil is more concentrated than extract. Start with half the amount and adjust to taste to avoid overpowering the cookies with a medicinal flavor.
Is there a vegan version of this Peppermint Meltaways Cookies Recipe?

It’s possible by substituting vegan butter and a vegan cream cheese alternative. However, the texture and flavor won’t be exactly the same, but still delicious in its own right. Letting the dough chill well is even more important here.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. Keep the cornstarch as it helps with the tender texture. The dough may be a bit more delicate, so handle gently.

Final Thoughts

This Peppermint Meltaways Cookies Recipe feels like a warm holiday hug every time I bake it. Whether you’re making them for family, friends, or just sneaking a few bites for yourself, the balance of buttery softness and minty sweetness is irresistible. I definitely recommend giving this recipe a try—you might find, like me, that these cookies become a beloved tradition. So warm up your mixer, grab that peppermint extract, and let’s get baking!