Irresistible Peppermint Meltaways Recipe for Festive Sweet Tooth

If you’re craving something melt-in-your-mouth sweet with a festive twist, peppermint meltaways are exactly what you need. These tender, buttery cookies infused with refreshing peppermint flavor are a holiday classic that are sure to delight your sweet tooth.

this Recipe

Making peppermint meltaways at home is easier than you think, and once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to treat for your seasonal celebrations. Let’s dive into how you can bake these irresistible delights that are equally perfect for gifting or enjoying with your loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, buttery texture that literally melts in your mouth.
• The perfect balance of sweet vanilla and refreshing peppermint flavors.
• Simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
• Quick to prepare and bake, ideal for holiday baking sessions.
• Beautifully festive with crushed candy cane garnish, great for gifting.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up a batch of these festive peppermint meltaways.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup finely crushed candy canes or peppermint candies

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 32 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories: Approximately 110 per cookie

How to Make Irresistible Peppermint Meltaways: A Festive Treat for Your Sweet Tooth!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes using a hand mixer.
3. Mix in the vanilla and peppermint extracts until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing slowly until the dough comes together. Stir in the crushed candy canes gently, saving a pinch for garnish.
5. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your fingers.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are just beginning to set but the cookies still look pale. They will firm up as they cool.
7. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle the tops with the remaining crushed candy canes.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once cooled, dust with additional powdered sugar if desired for that classic meltaway look and extra sweetness.

Tips for the Best Results

• Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for smooth creaming.
• Don’t overbake; peppermint meltaways should remain pale and soft, not browned.
• Use fresh peppermint extract for the best flavor – a little goes a long way.
• Crush candy canes finely to avoid large chunks that can break the delicate cookie texture.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them tender.

Storage and Reheating

Keep your peppermint meltaways fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to store them longer, place the cookies in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy frozen meltaways, let them thaw at room temperature. Reheating is generally unnecessary since these cookies are best enjoyed soft and cool, but you can warm them slightly in a low 200°F oven for 3-4 minutes if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute peppermint extract with something else?

While peppermint extract gives the signature flavor, you can substitute with spearmint extract for a milder mint taste or omit it for classic vanilla meltaways. Adjust the amount to taste since extracts vary in strength.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure your dough is well chilled before shaping if it feels too soft. Also, avoid over-creaming the butter and sugar which can incorporate excess air causing spreading.

Are peppermint meltaways gluten-free?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, you can try substituting a gluten-free flour blend, but results may vary in texture.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time for holiday parties?

Absolutely! Peppermint meltaways can be made 3-4 days in advance and stored in an airtight container. They also freeze well if you want to prepare them even earlier.