Peppermint Meltaways Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
These Peppermint Meltaways Cookies are a delightful holiday treat featuring a delicate, buttery cookie base infused with peppermint extract and topped with a creamy peppermint cream cheese frosting. Finished with crushed candy canes for a festive touch, these melt-in-your-mouth cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy winter treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- Crushed candy canes for garnish
Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1 package cream cheese (8 oz.), softened
- 1/2 cup salted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Blend in the peppermint extract thoroughly to infuse the dough with a refreshing minty flavor.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour and cornstarch, mixing gently until the dough comes together and forms a smooth consistency. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them evenly spaced on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass for a uniform shape.
- Bake the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Bake the cookies for 15-18 minutes or until the edges just start to set; they should remain pale to maintain their meltaway texture. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Make the Peppermint Cream Cheese Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and salted butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar and peppermint extract, mixing well to combine. The frosting should be thick but spreadable.
- Frost the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous layer of peppermint cream cheese frosting on top of each cookie using a small spatula or butter knife.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the frosting immediately after spreading to ensure they stick. Allow the frosting to set slightly before serving. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated for extended freshness.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter and cream cheese for the smoothest frosting.
- Be careful not to overbake the cookies to keep their signature meltaway texture.
- Crushed candy canes can be adjusted or omitted if desired, but they add a great festive crunch.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- For a stronger peppermint flavor, adjust the extract amount slightly based on preference.
Keywords: Peppermint Meltaways, holiday cookies, peppermint cookies, cream cheese frosting, Christmas cookies, meltaway cookies