Chocolate Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocolate Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are rich, buttery, and delicately soft cookies that truly live up to their name—they melt in your mouth! Infused with cocoa and a hint of peppermint, then topped with a creamy peppermint frosting, these festive treats are perfect for holiday cookie trays or wintertime indulgence.

ingredients

this Recipe

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

For the cookies:
unsalted butter (softened)
powdered sugar
peppermint extract
all-purpose flour
cocoa powder
cornstarch
salt

For the frosting:
unsalted butter (softened)
powdered sugar
peppermint extract
milk or cream
crushed peppermint candies or candy canes (for garnish, optional)

directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a large bowl, cream together butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

Mix in peppermint extract.

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt.

Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing just until a soft dough forms.

Scoop dough into small balls and place on baking sheet. Flatten gently with your fingers or the bottom of a glass.

Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let cool completely on a wire rack.

For the frosting, beat butter until creamy. Add powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and milk, beating until smooth and spreadable.

Frost cooled cookies and sprinkle with crushed peppermint if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 cookies.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 8-10 minutes
Cooling and frosting time: 30 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

Dip frosted cookies in melted chocolate for extra richness.
Use vanilla extract for a more subtle flavor.
Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for texture.
Swap peppermint for orange extract for a different twist.
Color the frosting pink or green for festive flair.

storage/reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Refrigerate for up to 1 week for longer freshness.
Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 2 months; thaw and frost before serving.

FAQs

Do these really melt in your mouth?
Yes, the cornstarch and powdered sugar create a super tender, meltaway texture.

Can I skip the frosting?
Yes, they’re delicious plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Is the peppermint flavor strong?
It’s subtle but refreshing—adjust extract to your preference.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate for up to 48 hours or freeze for later use.

Are these cookies crumbly?
They’re soft and tender, but not overly crumbly.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Do I need to chill the dough?
No chilling required—just mix, shape, and bake.

Can I use Dutch-process cocoa?
Yes, it adds a rich, deep chocolate flavor.

Are they good for gifting?
Absolutely—stacked in a tin, they’re a holiday favorite.

Can kids help make these?
Yes, they’re great for little bakers to shape and decorate.

Conclusion

Chocolate Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are a festive, irresistible treat that brings holiday magic in every bite. With their velvety texture and refreshing peppermint finish, they’re perfect for seasonal gatherings, cookie exchanges, or cozy nights by the fire. Make a batch—you’ll be glad you did.

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