Chocolate Peppermint Meltaway Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocolate Peppermint Meltaway Cookies are a festive holiday treat with a rich chocolate base and a refreshing peppermint glaze. Their name comes from the ultra-tender texture that quite literally melts in your mouth. With their decadent flavor and striking appearance, these cookies are perfect for Christmas cookie platters or cozy winter indulgence.

ingredients

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

flourcornstarchunsweetened cocoa powderunsalted buttersifted confectioners’ sugarsaltpeppermint extractvanilla extractcrushed peppermint candies

directions

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

In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and confectioners’ sugar until smooth and creamy.

Add the peppermint and vanilla extracts and mix until combined.

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

Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture until a soft dough forms.

Scoop and roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are set but not browned. Let them cool completely.

Prepare a peppermint glaze by mixing confectioners’ sugar, a splash of milk, and a few drops of peppermint extract until smooth.

Drizzle or spread the glaze over cooled cookies and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 30 cookies.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10-12 minutes
Cooling and decorating time: 20 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

Use dark cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate flavor.

Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate before adding peppermint topping.

Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for extra texture.

Top with festive sprinkles instead of peppermint for variety.

storage/reheating

Store Chocolate Peppermint Meltaway Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Refrigerate for up to 10 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use peppermint oil instead of extract?
Yes, but use it sparingly as it’s much more concentrated.

Can I skip the peppermint topping?
Yes, you can enjoy them plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Do these cookies spread while baking?
Not much—they hold their shape well, making them great for uniform treats.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can chill the dough for up to 2 days before baking.

Are these cookies gluten-free?
Not by default, but you can try substituting a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, just be sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly.

Do I need to chill the dough?
Not required, but chilling can help with shaping and reduce spreading.

Are these cookies very sweet?
They have a balanced sweetness, with the peppermint adding a refreshing finish.

Can kids help make these?
Yes! They’ll love rolling the dough and sprinkling the peppermint.

Conclusion

Chocolate Peppermint Meltaway Cookies offer the perfect balance of chocolate richness and peppermint zing in a soft, buttery bite. They’re a must-have for the holiday season, easy to make, and even easier to devour. Add these melt-in-your-mouth delights to your festive baking list—you won’t regret it.

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