Name: Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ⅓ cup unsalted butter very soft room temperature; ⅓ cup sweetened condensed milk; ½ teaspoon peppermint extract; 1 cup cornstarch (plus 1-2 tablespoons if needed); 1 cup powdered sugar sifted; 1½ tablespoons unsalted butter melted and cooled; 1½ tablespoons heavy cream; ⅛ – ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract (to taste); crushed peppermint candies for garnish

Nothing quite melts in your mouth like these delicate, dreamy treats. The Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe is pure magic—soft, tender cookies infused with that refreshing peppermint twist, then topped with creamy frosting and a sprinkle of crushed candy. It’s like a winter wonderland in every bite!

A group of round cookies with a soft, light beige base layer topped with a thick, swirled layer of white frosting. On top of the frosting are small, rough pieces of red and white striped peppermint candy sprinkled evenly. The cookies are arranged close together on a white marbled surface, creating a cozy, festive look. Several round peppermint candies with red and white swirls are placed around the cookies. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

When I first tried making these, I was instantly hooked. There's something about the perfect balance of buttery softness with a bright peppermint flavor that feels both nostalgic and refreshing. Honestly, these cookies disappear faster than I can plate them!

Delicately Soft Texture: These meltaway cookies truly live up to their name—they practically dissolve when you bite into them.
Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients and a simple method, this recipe is a breeze even on busy days.
Bright Peppermint Flavor: The refreshing peppermint shines through in both the cookie and frosting, creating a perfect holiday vibe.
Beautiful and Festive: Topped with crushed peppermint candies, these cookies look as delightful as they taste—perfect for gifting or holiday gatherings.

The image shows soft, round white cookies with a smooth layer of white frosting on top. Each cookie has crushed pieces of red and white peppermint candy sprinkled over the frosting. One cookie is stacked partly on another, with a bite taken out, showing a light, fluffy inside. The cookies rest on crinkled brown paper, with some candy pieces scattered around them. Nearby, a white bowl filled with more crushed peppermint candies is partly visible. The overall look is cozy and festive. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

This cookie recipe is simple but brilliant—the combination of cornstarch and butter creates that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture, while the sweetened condensed milk adds a touch of richness. Each ingredient plays its part to give you cookies that are tender without being crumbly.

Flat lay of a small stack of very soft unsalted butter cubes, a small white ceramic bowl filled with smooth sweetened condensed milk, a small white ceramic bowl holding clear peppermint extract liquid, a neat mound of fine white cornstarch powder on a white ceramic plate, a few whole clean uncracked eggs with pale brown shells, a small white ceramic bowl heaped with sifted powdered sugar, a small white ceramic bowl of melted and cooled unsalted butter, a small white ceramic bowl filled with creamy heavy cream, and a small white ceramic bowl containing crushed bright red and white peppermint candies, all arranged in perfect symmetry on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Unsalted Butter: Soft but not melted butter blends beautifully to make these cookies tender and rich without greasiness.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds sweetness and moisture that helps keep the cookies soft and chewy.
Peppermint Extract: Gives that unmistakable refreshing flavor—be cautious to add in small amounts to avoid overpowering.
Cornstarch: Key to the signature meltaway texture, it lightens the dough and ensures tenderness, but measure carefully to avoid dryness.
Powdered Sugar (for frosting): Provides a smooth, sweet base for creamy frosting that spreads easily.
Heavy Cream & Melted Butter: These enrich the frosting for a luscious, silky consistency.
Crushed Peppermint Candies: For the perfect festive crunch and pop of color on top.

📝

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.

Make It Your Way

I love tweaking the peppermint level depending on the season or mood. Some days I dial up the peppermint a little more; other times, I sneak in half the peppermint and add a touch of vanilla for a softer effect. This recipe is a great canvas for your flavor preferences.

Variation: Once, I tried swapping peppermint extract with almond extract, which was surprisingly delightful—still soft but with a nutty twist that's unique and cozy.
Dietary Modification: For a dairy-free version, use vegan butter and coconut cream in the frosting—results are still melt-in-your-mouth goodness!

Step-by-Step: How I Make Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter, Condensed Milk, and Peppermint

Start with very soft butter—not melted! I usually leave my butter out while gathering ingredients so it’s easy to press with a finger. Beat it together with the sweetened condensed milk and peppermint extract until the mixture is smooth with no lumps—that's key to a nice, meltaway texture.

Step 2: Mix in Cornstarch Carefully

Add the cornstarch gradually on low speed. The dough should feel soft and a little crumbly but not sticky. If it’s too wet, add a tablespoon or two more of cornstarch—but just enough to handle. If you add too much, the cookies can turn dry and chalky, so go slow here.

Step 3: Scoop and Bake

I use a tablespoon cookie scoop to get perfectly sized cookies. Place them 2 inches apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes—just until the edges start to have a hint of gold (not brown!). Let them cool slightly on the sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps them set gently without breaking.

Step 4: Whip Up the Peppermint Frosting

While cookies cool, make the frosting by whisking powdered sugar, melted butter, heavy cream, and peppermint extract until smooth and spreadable. Taste and adjust peppermint carefully—it’s easy to get too strong here. Add extra cream (a teaspoon at a time) if it’s too thick, or powdered sugar if it’s too runny.

Step 5: Frost and Decorate

Once cookies are completely cooled, spread about 2 teaspoons of frosting on each one. While the frosting is still soft, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top for a festive crunch and color. Let the frosting set a bit before serving.

Top Tip

Through countless batches, I learned small adjustments make all the difference with these peppermint meltaway cookies. Here’s what I’d wish someone told me when I started:

Butter Softness: Make sure butter is soft but not melted—this ensures smooth mixing with the condensed milk and just the right cookie texture.
Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much adds air and can flatten the cookies, making them tough instead of tender.
Frosting Consistency: Aim for frosting that holds shape but spreads easily—adding cream or powdered sugar little by little helps hit this balance perfectly.
Adjust Peppermint Extract: I always start with less and double-check flavor because too much peppermint can overpower the delicate cookie taste.

How to Serve Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe

Peppermint Meltaway Cookies - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

My go-to garnish is crushed peppermint candies, which adds a festive, crunchy contrast that I love. For extra flair, I sometimes mix in edible glitter or a light drizzle of white chocolate for an elegant holiday feel.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of hot cocoa or peppermint tea—makes the whole experience cozy. For parties, I like serving alongside a fruit platter or simple cheese board for a balanced treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gifting, I arrange these peppermint meltaway cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons. Layering them on pretty platters with sprigs of fresh mint or pine adds a cheerful, inviting touch for guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover cookies in a single layer inside an airtight container on the counter. They stay fresh and melt-in-your-mouth soft for up to two days. Avoid stacking to keep the frosting intact.

Freezing

Because these cookies are so delicate, I don’t recommend freezing—they tend to lose their signature soft texture. If you want to prep ahead, freeze the cookie dough balls before baking and bake fresh when ready.

Reheating

If you want to warm the cookies slightly, I give them about 10 seconds in the microwave. This gently softens the cookie without melting the frosting. Enjoy warm with a cold glass of milk—it’s pure comfort!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use regular sugar instead of powdered sugar for the frosting?

Powdered sugar is key for a smooth frosting that spreads easily and holds its shape. Regular granulated sugar won’t dissolve properly and will make the frosting gritty, so I recommend sticking with powdered sugar for the best texture.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

Look for cookies that are just beginning to turn lightly golden around the edges while the centers still look pale. Overbaking will dry them out, so stick to the 10-12 minute range and check early to get the soft meltaway texture.

Can I substitute peppermint extract with something else?

Definitely! You can experiment with vanilla, almond, or even lemon extract. Each brings a unique twist while keeping the tender meltaway texture that makes these cookies special.

How far in advance can I make the frosting?

You can prepare the frosting up to three days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Bring it back to room temperature and give it a quick whisk before spreading to restore its creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

These Peppermint Meltaway Cookies Recipe hold a special place in my kitchen and heart. Soft, lightly sweet, and bursting with peppermint charm, they’re the kind of cookies that make you pause and savor the moment. Honestly, once you try them, they'll become your go-to for cozy winter days or anytime you want a truly comforting treat. I can’t wait for you to share them with friends and family—they’re always a crowd-pleaser and a little magic in cookie form!