Peppermint-flavored treats are a beloved part of the holiday season, with their refreshing and festive taste adding a special touch to celebrations. From candy canes to hot cocoa, peppermint evokes memories of winter holidays and cozy moments with loved ones. Among the many peppermint-inspired desserts, peppermint meltaway cookies stand out as a delightful and unique treat. Their buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with the signature peppermint flavor makes them a crowd favorite for holiday parties, gift-giving, and festive baking sessions. Whether you’re serving them as a sweet snack or using them as part of a holiday cookie platter, these cookies offer a refreshing twist on the classic cookie.

What are Peppermint Meltaway Cookies?

Peppermint meltaway cookies are soft, delicate cookies that literally dissolve in your mouth, thanks to the unique addition of cornstarch in the dough. The key features of these cookies include their buttery flavor, light texture, and refreshing peppermint essence. The frosting adds an extra layer of sweetness and a hint of minty goodness, while the crushed peppermint candies on top serve as a delightful garnish. These cookies stand out from other holiday cookies due to their melt-in-your-mouth consistency, which makes them feel light and airy compared to denser cookies like gingerbread or sugar cookies. The combination of the smooth dough, minty frosting, and crisp candy pieces creates a festive, indulgent treat that’s perfect for any holiday occasion.

Ingredients and Equipment

Ingredients for the Cookies

1. Unsalted Butter
   Unsalted butter is the primary fat in the cookie dough, contributing to the rich, creamy base that provides the cookies with their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall salt content in the recipe, ensuring a perfect balance of sweetness and flavor.
2. Sweetened Condensed Milk
   Sweetened condensed milk plays a key role in creating a smooth, soft texture in the dough. It also adds a subtle sweetness that complements the minty flavor of the peppermint extract. The richness of the condensed milk helps to bind the dough together and contributes to the cookies’ meltaway texture.
3. Peppermint Extract
   The essential flavoring in peppermint meltaway cookies, peppermint extract, provides the signature minty kick. The extract ensures that each bite delivers a refreshing, cool taste that pairs perfectly with the buttery dough and sweet frosting.
4. Cornstarch
   Cornstarch is the secret ingredient that gives peppermint meltaway cookies their signature texture. It helps to soften the dough and allows the cookies to dissolve effortlessly in your mouth. Cornstarch works by reducing the gluten content, creating a tender, light cookie that melts upon contact with your taste buds.

Substitutions: For a dairy-free version, you can swap the unsalted butter for plant-based butter and opt for a non-dairy sweetened condensed milk alternative. These swaps ensure that you can still enjoy these delicious cookies while catering to dietary preferences.

Ingredients for the Frosting

1. Powdered Sugar
   Powdered sugar, also known as confectioners’ sugar, is used to sweeten and thicken the frosting. It creates a smooth, silky texture that spreads easily on the cookies.
2. Unsalted Butter
   Just like in the cookie dough, unsalted butter in the frosting adds richness and helps create a smooth, velvety consistency.
3. Heavy Cream
   Heavy cream gives the frosting its creamy texture and helps to achieve the desired spreadable consistency. The cream also adds a richness that balances the sweetness of the powdered sugar.
4. Peppermint Extract
   Peppermint extract is added to the frosting to complement the minty flavor in the cookies, providing an extra layer of refreshing peppermint flavor.
5. Crushed Peppermint Candies
   Crushed peppermint candies are sprinkled on top of the frosted cookies as a garnish. They add a crunchy texture and extra burst of minty flavor, enhancing the overall peppermint experience.

Equipment Needed

1. Handheld Mixer or Stand Mixer
   A handheld or stand mixer will help you quickly and easily combine the ingredients for both the cookie dough and frosting, ensuring a smooth consistency.
2. Cookie Scoop
   A cookie scoop ensures that each cookie is uniformly sized, allowing for even baking and consistent texture in each cookie.
3. Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat
   Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat helps prevent the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
4. Wire Cooling Rack
   A wire cooling rack is essential for cooling the cookies evenly. It allows air to circulate around the cookies, preventing them from becoming soggy and ensuring they cool properly before frosting.

this recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Temperature and Baking Prep
  Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the ideal temperature for baking peppermint meltaway cookies, ensuring they bake evenly while maintaining their delicate texture. An oven thermometer can help ensure your oven is accurate, as temperatures may vary slightly.
• Why Lining the Baking Sheet with Parchment Paper is Important
  Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This step is crucial for preventing the cookies from sticking to the pan, making cleanup much easier, and ensuring that the cookies bake evenly. The parchment paper also promotes air circulation under the cookies, allowing them to cook uniformly without the risk of burning.

2. Make the Cookie Dough

• Creaming the Butter and Mixing with Condensed Milk
  Start by placing the unsalted butter (at room temperature) in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Use a handheld mixer or stand mixer on medium-high speed to beat the butter until it’s smooth and creamy. This process is essential because room-temperature butter blends more easily with the other ingredients, ensuring a smoother dough.

  Add the sweetened condensed milk to the butter and continue mixing until the mixture is fully combined. The condensed milk adds sweetness and helps create a soft texture that’s essential for the meltaway effect. Next, stir in the peppermint extract to infuse the dough with the signature minty flavor.
• Incorporating Cornstarch
  Gradually add the cornstarch to the butter-condensed milk mixture. This should be done slowly, mixing on low speed to ensure the dough remains smooth and free of lumps. Cornstarch plays a critical role in achieving the meltaway texture, as it softens the dough and minimizes the gluten formation, resulting in a tender, light cookie. Keep mixing until the dough is uniform and smooth.

3. Shape the Cookies

• Using a Cookie Scoop to Portion Dough
  To ensure consistent size and even baking, use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough. A standard 1-tablespoon scoop will give you perfectly-sized cookies that bake uniformly. This method ensures that your cookies will be similar in size, making them visually appealing and ensuring even baking.
• Spacing Tips to Avoid Cookie Spreading
  Place each scoop of dough on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. This spacing is crucial because the dough will spread slightly during baking. If you overcrowd the sheet, the cookies may bake into each other and lose their individual shape. The spacing will also allow the cookies to cook evenly without sticking together.

4. Bake the Cookies

• Optimal Baking Time and Signs of Readiness
  Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. The center will remain soft and slightly puffy, which is the hallmark of a meltaway cookie. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-baking, as they can easily become too crispy if left too long.
• Cooling on the Sheet
  Once you remove the cookies from the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This brief cooling period allows them to firm up slightly, making them easier to transfer without breaking. After the 5 minutes, carefully move the cookies to a wire cooling rack to cool completely before frosting.

5. Cool the Cookies

• Why Cooling is Important
  It’s important to allow the cookies to cool completely before applying the frosting. This ensures that the frosting won’t melt or slide off, and the cookies will hold their shape. Cooling the cookies on a wire rack helps air circulate around them, preventing them from becoming soggy. Proper cooling also ensures the frosting has the right consistency once applied.

6. Make the Frosting

• Blending Ingredients for Smooth Frosting
  While the cookies are cooling, it’s time to make the frosting. In a medium bowl, combine the sifted powdered sugar, melted unsalted butter, and heavy cream. Use your mixer to blend everything together until smooth and well combined. The butter and cream create a creamy, velvety texture, while the powdered sugar thickens the frosting to the right consistency.
• Adjusting Consistency with Powdered Sugar or Heavy Cream
  If the frosting seems too thick, add 1 teaspoon of heavy cream at a time until it reaches your desired spreadable consistency. On the other hand, if the frosting is too runny, gradually add 1-2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until it thickens. The goal is a frosting that is thick but still easy to spread.

7. Frost the Cookies

• Application Technique
  Once the cookies have cooled completely, it’s time to frost them. Using a small offset spatula or the back of a spoon, spread about 2 teaspoons of frosting evenly on the center of each cookie. Make sure the frosting covers the cookie’s surface, but avoid applying too much, as this can overwhelm the light texture of the cookies.
• Amount of Frosting to Use for the Perfect Balance
  The frosting should complement, not overpower, the cookies. A thin but even layer works best. If the frosting is too thick or heavy, it can detract from the delicate meltaway texture of the cookies.

8. Garnish and Serve

• Crushed Peppermint Candies as a Garnish
  To finish off the cookies, sprinkle each frosted cookie with crushed peppermint candies. This adds both a burst of flavor and a festive touch. The crunch of the candies contrasts beautifully with the smoothness of the frosting, making each bite a delightful experience.
• Allowing the Frosting to Set Before Serving for the Best Texture
  Let the frosting set for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows it to firm up, ensuring the cookies are not only visually appealing but also easy to handle without the frosting smearing. Once the frosting is set, your cookies are ready to serve and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

Storage Tips

• How to Store Cookies for Freshness
  To keep your peppermint meltaway cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps prevent them from drying out or absorbing unwanted moisture. The container will keep the cookies soft and fresh for up to a week. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to preserve their texture.
• Best Way to Store Frosted Cookies to Prevent Sogginess
  When storing frosted cookies, ensure the frosting has fully set before stacking them. Place a sheet of wax paper or parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent them from sticking to each other and smearing the frosting. To prevent the frosting from becoming soggy, store the cookies in a cool, dry place and avoid any humidity.

Cookie Texture Tips

• Troubleshooting Common Problems: Cookies Too Soft or Too Firm
  If your cookies turn out too soft, it could be due to too much sweetened condensed milk or insufficient cornstarch. You can add a bit more cornstarch to the dough for a firmer texture. If the cookies are too firm, try reducing the cornstarch slightly or ensure the butter is at the correct temperature for smoother mixing.
• Ensuring the Right Dough Consistency
  The dough should be smooth, soft, and slightly sticky. If it’s too dry or crumbly, add a tiny bit more sweetened condensed milk or a teaspoon of heavy cream. If the dough is too wet, gently add a little more cornstarch. Aim for a dough that holds together but isn’t overly stiff.

Flavor Variations

• Add-ins or Substitutions
  To customize your peppermint meltaway cookies, try adding chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent flavor. You can also drizzle melted white chocolate over the cookies for an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal. Crushed candy canes can be added to the dough for extra texture and a stronger mint flavor.
• Alternative Flavorings
  If you want to mix up the flavor profile, try substituting the peppermint extract with almond extract for a nutty twist or vanilla extract for a more classic flavor. These changes will create a different but equally delicious variation of the meltaway cookie.

Decorating Ideas

• How to Creatively Decorate for Different Occasions
  These cookies are perfect for customizing decorations to match various occasions. For holiday themes, use red and green colored frosting or sprinkle with holiday-themed sprinkles. For birthdays, you can add vibrant sprinkles or even edible glitter to make them more festive.
• Using Colored Frosting or Sprinkles for a Unique Twist
  Instead of the classic white frosting, consider using colored frosting to match your event’s theme. You can pipe festive patterns or swirls on top for added creativity. If you’re looking for a little sparkle, add a dash of edible glitter or fun sprinkles to the top for extra flair.

Nutritional Information

Calories and Serving Size

A typical peppermint meltaway cookie contains approximately 90-120 calories per cookie, depending on the size and thickness of the frosting. The serving size is usually one cookie, which provides a light, sweet indulgence. Most of the calories come from the butter, sweetened condensed milk, and powdered sugar, which contribute to the rich and creamy texture of the cookies. However, the cookies are quite small, so it’s easy to enjoy one without overindulging.

Health Considerations

These cookies are high in sugar due to the condensed milk, powdered sugar, and frosting, which makes them a treat best enjoyed in moderation. They are also high in fat from the butter and heavy cream, so they’re not considered a health food. However, as an occasional indulgence, they can be part of a balanced diet.

Can They Be Made Gluten-Free?

Yes, peppermint meltaway cookies can be made gluten-free. Since cornstarch is naturally gluten-free, it can replace flour in the dough without any issues. Simply ensure all other ingredients, such as the powdered sugar and candy toppings, are also gluten-free.

FAQs

Why are these cookies called “meltaways”?

Peppermint meltaway cookies are called “meltaways” because of their melt-in-your-mouth texture. This unique texture is achieved through the use of cornstarch in the dough. Cornstarch reduces the gluten formation, making the cookies soft, light, and delicate. When you bite into one, it practically dissolves on your tongue, creating a delightful meltaway sensation. This texture is what sets them apart from traditional cookies, making them extra special and enjoyable.

Can I make these cookies without sweetened condensed milk?

Yes, you can make these cookies without sweetened condensed milk. A good alternative is using evaporated milk combined with an additional 1/3 cup of sugar. This will mimic the sweetness and creaminess of sweetened condensed milk. You can also substitute with regular milk and an extra 1-2 tablespoons of sugar if you don’t have evaporated milk on hand. Just keep in mind that the consistency of the dough might vary slightly, so you may need to adjust the amount of cornstarch.

How do I store leftover peppermint meltaway cookies?

To store leftover peppermint meltaway cookies and keep them fresh, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. For frosted cookies, make sure the frosting has set completely before stacking them, and use wax paper or parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. These cookies will stay fresh for about 5-7 days.

Can I freeze peppermint meltaway cookies?

Yes, peppermint meltaway cookies can be frozen. If you want to freeze them unfrosted, simply store the cooled cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To freeze frosted cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to set the frosting, then transfer to a container. Thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.

How can I make the cookies more minty?

To increase the minty flavor, you can add more peppermint extract to the dough and/or the frosting. Start with an additional 1/4 teaspoon at a time, tasting to ensure the flavor balance suits your preference. You can also add crushed peppermint candies to the dough or sprinkle them more generously on top for extra mint flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Final Thoughts

Peppermint meltaway cookies are a beloved holiday treat for a reason – their melt-in-your-mouth texture, refreshing minty flavor, and festive appeal make them the perfect indulgence during the holiday season. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, gifting homemade treats, or simply enjoying a sweet moment with family, these cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Their delicate texture, enhanced by the use of cornstarch, and the sweet peppermint frosting, create a delightful combination that’s hard to resist.

Call to Action

Now that you know how to make these delectable peppermint meltaway cookies, why not try baking them for your next festive occasion? Whether you’re sticking to the classic recipe or adding your own twists, these cookies are bound to become a favorite in your holiday repertoire. We’d love to hear how your baking turned out! Share your experiences and any variations you tried in the comments – happy baking!

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