Peppermint Meltaways

By aerin8

These lovely, melt in your mouth Peppermint Meltaways are gorgeous as is, however the festive bar can be raised by presenting them on a cookie platter, then wrapping them in red/green plastic wrap with a nice Bow on top. This will also keep those unwanted hands at bay until ready to serve. Happy Holidays and enjoy!

Ingredients

• Ingredients:
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• FROSTING:
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1-1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 2 to 3 drops red food coloring, optional
• 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies

Preparation

Step 1

In a small bowl, cream butter and confectioners' sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in extract.

In another bowl, whisk flour and cornstarch; gradually beat into creamed mixture. Refrigerate, covered, 30 minutes or until firm enough to handle.

Preheat oven to 350° F. Shape dough into 1 inch balls; place 2 inches apart on un-greased baking sheets. Bake 9-11 minutes or until bottoms are light brown. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool completely.

In a small bowl, beat butter until creamy. Beat in milk, extract and, if desired, food coloring. Gradually beat in confectioners' sugar until smooth. Spread over cookies; sprinkle with crushed candies. Store in an airtight container.