Peppermint Meltaways Cookies with Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re a fan of peppermint and all things cozy, then you’re going to love this Peppermint Meltaways Cookies with Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. These delicate, buttery cookies practically melt in your mouth, perfectly balanced by a creamy, lightly minty frosting that adds just the right amount of festive flair. I’ve made these for holiday gatherings, but honestly, they’re so good I find myself baking them whenever I want a sweet treat with a cool peppermint kick.

The beauty of this Peppermint Meltaways Cookies with Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is how approachable it is—no complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients, just pure, nostalgic flavors done right. Whether you’re gifting them or enjoying a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea, they feel special but never fussy. You’ll want to keep this recipe bookmarked for all your peppermint cravings!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a specific role to create that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture and the smooth, tangy frosting. I always recommend using fresh peppermint extract—it’s key to getting that true peppermint flavor without overpowering the cookie.

• Unsalted butter: Using unsalted lets you control the saltiness and keeps the cookies tender and rich.
• Powdered sugar: Its fine texture makes the cookies silky and helps with that classic meltaway feel.
• Peppermint extract: Adds that refreshing peppermint buzz; make sure it’s pure for best results.
• All-purpose flour: The sturdy base for the cookie’s structure, balanced with cornstarch for softness.
• Cornstarch: This ingredient is the secret to the cookies’ melt-in-your-mouth quality by softening the dough.
• Crushed candy canes: For garnish—they add crunch and a festive touch of color and flavor.
• Cream cheese (softened): Makes the frosting creamy and tangy, complementing the peppermint beautifully.
• Salted butter: I prefer salted butter in the frosting to enhance the sweetness just a bit.
• Powdered sugar (sifted): Creates a smooth, lump-free frosting that spreads effortlessly.

Variations

I like to play around with this recipe depending on the season or my mood, and you should too! It’s easy to tweak for different flavor profiles or dietary needs without losing that signature meltaway texture.

• Chocolate Peppermint Variation: I sometimes add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the cookie dough for a chocolatey twist that pairs wonderfully with the peppermint cream cheese frosting.
• Gluten-Free Option: I’ve swapped the flour for a gluten-free blend with excellent results—just make sure your cornstarch and other ingredients are also gluten-free.
• Vegan Adaptation: Using vegan butter and a dairy-free cream cheese allows you to enjoy these meltaways even if you avoid animal products.
• Spiced Up: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the dough can add a cozy warmth to these cookies, perfect for colder months.

How to Make Peppermint Meltaways Cookies with Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by beating your softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar together until it’s light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes with a hand mixer. It’s key to get this step right because it creates air pockets that make the cookies tender and meltaway. Don’t rush here, and scrape the bowl as needed to get an even mix.

Step 2: Add Peppermint Extract

Stir in the peppermint extract so it infuses the dough with that fresh minty aroma. I personally love this step because the whole kitchen starts smelling like a winter wonderland, and it amps up the festive spirit!

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients and Combine

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and cornstarch. Slowly add this into your butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—you want a dough that holds together but stays tender. If the dough feels too soft to handle, chilling it for 15-20 minutes helps.

Step 4: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Roll the dough into small balls, about one tablespoon each, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Flatten them slightly with the bottom of a glass or your hand. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for about 15-18 minutes, until the edges just start to turn golden. The key here is not to overbake—these cookies are delicate and should still look soft when you take them out.

Step 5: Prepare the Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cookies cool, beat together the softened cream cheese and salted butter until creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the peppermint extract. This frosting is silky and tangy, making the cookies downright irresistible.

Step 6: Frost and Garnish

Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous layer of the peppermint cream cheese frosting on each cookie. Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for a pop of color and added crunch. This final step transforms these meltaways into festive delights that everyone will rave about.

How to Serve Peppermint Meltaways Cookies with Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping these cookies with finely crushed candy canes not only because they look festive but also because the crunch adds a wonderful contrast to the creamy frosting and soft cookie. Sometimes, I sprinkle a little edible pearl dust for a magical shimmer when serving at holiday parties.

Side Dishes

These meltaway cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of cocoa or peppermint tea for an extra minty experience. I’ve also served them alongside a rich dark chocolate fondue for guests to dip and enjoy some textural fun.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gatherings, I like to arrange these Peppermint Meltaways Cookies with Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe on a tiered dessert stand surrounded by fresh pine sprigs and mini ornaments—it’s simple but instantly festive. Wrapping them in clear cellophane bags tied with red ribbon also makes adorable homemade gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover cookies in an airtight container layered with parchment paper in the refrigerator because of the cream cheese frosting. This keeps them fresh for up to 5 days, and I find the texture stays soft and just as meltaway when you take them out.

Freezing

If I want to freeze them, I usually freeze the cookies without frosting first, arranged on a baking sheet to freeze individually so they don’t stick. After they’re solid, I transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, I thaw and then frost them fresh. This way, the frosting stays creamy and fresh.

Reheating

Reheating isn’t usually needed since these are best served soft and cool, but if you want to warm the cookie slightly without melting the frosting, pop the unfrosted cookie in a microwave for about 5-7 seconds before frosting. This softens the cookie perfectly without losing that meltaway texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Peppermint Meltaways Cookies with Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen, especially during chilly months when I want something both comforting and festive. I hope you’ll enjoy the creamy peppermint frosting paired with those soft, buttery cookies as much as I do—it’s truly a combination that delights every time. Give this recipe a try and share it with friends; it’s one of those treats that brings everyone together with just one bite.

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