Iced Peppermint Melties - cooking recipe

Ingredients

Cookies
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 cup butter, softened
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
1 1/4 cups flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
Glaze
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons butter, softened
1 -2 tablespoon milk
1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
2 -3 drops red food coloring (optional, but it really makes a statement)
crushed hard peppermint candies or candy cane, for garnish

Preparation

Cream together the butter, powdered sugar, and mint extract in a large bowl until light and fluffy using an electric mixer at medium speed.
Reduce speed to low; blend in the flour and cornstarch until well mixed. Cover; chill until firm (30-60) minutes.
Heat oven to 350*F. Shape dough into 1\" balls; place 2\" apart on ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake 12-15 minytes, or until edges are lightly browned.
Let stand on sheets 1 minute; transfer cookies to wire racks and cool completely.
Meanwhile, make the glaze: Combine the powdered sugar, butter, mint extract, and enough milk in a small bowl to achieve desired glazing consistency.
Stir in the food coloring, if using.
Drizzle in lines or swirls over the cooled cookies; immediately sprinkle with crushed peppermints.