Name: Melted Snowman Cookie Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 2 h 13 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (345 grams); 2 teaspoons cornstarch or cornflour (6 grams); 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (226 grams; 2 sticks); 1 ⅓ cups granulated sugar (270 grams); 1 large egg, at room temperature; 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 3 cups powdered sugar (360 grams); 3 to 4 tablespoons milk (45 to 60 ml), plus more as needed; 1 tablespoon light corn syrup; 1 teaspoon clear vanilla extract; Black gel food coloring; Orange gel food coloring; Marshmallows (regular size, optionally trimmed); Mini M&M’s (for buttons); Airheads Extremes or Twizzler’s Pull & Peel candies (cut into thin strips for scarves)

Print Recipe· 3.9 from 11 reviews

If you’re looking to brighten up your cookie platter with a festive, fun treat that brings both whimsy and flavor, the Melted Snowman Cookie Recipe is an absolute must-try. These sugar cookies, topped with messy white icing, marshmallow heads, and adorable details like mini M&M buttons and candy scarves, perfectly capture the playful spirit of winter with a sweet twist. This Melted Snowman Cookie Recipe not only delivers delightful texture and taste but also invites everyone to join in the fun of assembling and decorating, making it a favorite for gatherings, holiday parties, or cozy afternoons by the fire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a plate with a single decorated snowman sugar cookie placed in the center. The cookie base is light golden brown with a smooth layer of white icing on top, shaped like a melting snowman. On this icing, two candy buttons in green and red are placed as the body’s buttons. A large white marshmallow acts as the snowman's head, with small black dots for eyes and an orange triangular nose made of candy or icing. A red sugar-coated candy strip is wrapped around the marshmallow, mimicking a scarf. Black icing lines create stick arms on each side of the white icing. In the background, there are more similar snowman cookies laid out on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Melted Snowman Cookie Recipe depends on a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work together to create perfect cookies with rich flavor and that irresistible sugary finish. Each ingredient plays its own role—flour and cornstarch ensure a tender bite, butter adds richness, and the vanilla infuses warmth into every crumb. For the icing and decorations, powdered sugar and colorful food gels bring the fun to life, while marshmallows and candies add character and charm to each cookie.

All-purpose flour (2 ¾ cups): The foundation for a soft yet sturdy cookie base that holds all the fun toppings.
Cornstarch (2 teaspoons): Adds tenderness and a subtle softness to the cookie texture.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise just enough for that perfect crumb.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Gives a rich, creamy flavor and helps create a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Granulated sugar (1 ⅓ cups): Adds sweetness and a delicate crispness to the cookie edges.
Large egg (1) and egg yolk (1): Provide moisture and richness for a tender crumb.
Pure vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Infuses warmth and a sweet aroma that’s key to classic sugar cookies.
Powdered sugar (3 cups): The base for the luscious, shiny icing that “melts” over the cookies.
Milk (3 to 4 tablespoons): Adjusts the icing to the perfect spreadable consistency.
Light corn syrup (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle shine and smooth texture to the icing.
Clear vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Keeps the icing’s color bright while adding flavor.
Black and orange gel food coloring: Essential for giving the snowmen their charming eyes, nose, and smile details.
Marshmallows: The snowman heads that bring soft, fluffy fun to every cookie.
Mini M&M’s: Perfect bite-sized dots that become buttons on the snowman’s torso.
Airheads Extremes or Twizzler’s Pull & Peel candies: Cut into strips to create colorful scarves for a finishing touch.

How to Make Melted Snowman Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C) and lining baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats—this keeps your cookies from sticking and helps with even baking. Combine your dry ingredients in one bowl, whisking together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Then, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in your egg, egg yolk, and vanilla, mixing until everything is perfectly incorporated. Finally, gently fold in the dry ingredients until the dough comes together—your dough is ready for shaping and baking!

Step 2: Shape and Bake

Using a cookie scoop (about 1 ½ tablespoons), portion out the dough onto your prepared sheets, making sure to space them apart because these cookies will spread a little as they bake. A little tip: flattening the balls slightly with your palm helps them spread evenly. Bake the cookies for 11 to 13 minutes. When they come out, don’t forget to gently press down each cookie with a spatula to create a flat surface, perfect for decorating later. Let them cool partially on the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Icing

The iconic “melting” look depends on just the right icing consistency. Whisk powdered sugar, milk, corn syrup, and clear vanilla extract until lump-free and thick. Then, gradually add more milk to reach a medium consistency—the kind that spreads smoothly but won’t drip off your cookie. Test the icing by lifting your whisk; the ribbons should melt back in around 5 to 6 seconds. Divide small amounts of this white icing into two bowls and tint them with black and orange gel food coloring for the snowman’s details.

Step 4: Assemble Your Melted Snowmen

Spread a messy dollop of white icing on each cooled cookie to mimic melting snow. Add a marshmallow on one side to be the snowman’s “head,” trimming the marshmallow slightly if you want a better fit. Attach mini M&M’s as buttons on the icing below. Use the black icing to pipe playful eyes and stick arms onto the cookies. With orange icing, give each snowman a cute carrot nose on their marshmallow face. Let everything harden completely—this could take up to a day—but trust me, the wait is worth it!

Step 5: Add Final Touches

Once the icing is dry, give your snowmen some personality with colorful scarves made from thin strips of Airheads Extremes or Twizzlers Pull & Peel candies. These candy scarves add a vibrant pop of color and extra sweetness while completing the charming “melted” snowman look. Your Melted Snowman Cookie Recipe is now ready for sharing, admiring, and devouring!

How to Serve Melted Snowman Cookie Recipe

A single round cookie with a soft, light beige color and a slightly rough texture sits flat on a white marbled surface. On top of the cookie is a smooth layer of white icing that spreads out unevenly, covering most of the cookie but leaving the edges fully visible. The icing has a shiny, glassy finish and gentle curves with one small drip hanging slightly over the cookie's edge. The overall look is simple and clean, focusing on the contrast between the soft cookie and smooth icing. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishes are what take these cookies from delightful to downright irresistible. Sprinkle a little edible glitter or white sanding sugar over the icing before it sets to add frost-like sparkle. For extra texture, you can press tiny crushed peppermint candies alongside the marshmallow. Fresh mint leaves or a small dusting of powdered sugar snow around your serving platter can complete the whimsical winter scene.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with cozy winter drinks like hot cocoa topped with whipped cream or a warm cup of spiced apple cider. For a festive brunch or dessert spread, serve alongside a cheese board with mild cheeses and sweet preserves to balance the sugary treats. For a kid-friendly gathering, a fresh fruit platter with bright berries offers a refreshing contrast to the sugary richness of the Melted Snowman Cookies.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation is half the fun with this Melted Snowman Cookie Recipe. Arrange cookies on a rustic wooden board surrounded by pinecones, twinkling fairy lights, or cotton “snow.” Place them upright in clear glass jars tied with festive ribbons for gifting or party displays. You can even set up a “decorate your own” station, letting friends and family add their own marshmallows, candies, and colored icing—turning cookie time into a joyous activity!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After the icing has hardened completely, store your Melted Snowman Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 5 days, making them a great make-ahead treat for busy holiday schedules or last-minute guests.

Freezing

If you want to stash these cookies away for later festivities, freezing works wonderfully. Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag with parchment between layers. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, decorate the cookies after thawing or freeze already decorated ones only if the icing is thoroughly hardened.

Reheating

These sugar cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature, so simply thaw frozen cookies by leaving them out for a couple of hours. If you enjoy a warm cookie, gently warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes, but avoid microwaving as it may melt the icing. Reheating enhances their buttery softness and just-baked aroma.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of candy instead of mini M&M’s for the buttons?

Absolutely! You can substitute mini chocolate chips, small raisins, or any bite-sized colorful candy you prefer. The important part is that they stick well to the icing and complement the sweet flavor of the cookie.

How long does it take for the icing to harden completely?

While it varies depending on humidity, plan for about 12 to 24 hours for the icing to dry and harden fully. Leaving the cookies uncovered at room temperature helps speed up the process.

Can I make this Melted Snowman Cookie Recipe gluten-free?

You can, by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum. Make sure the blend is designed for cookies to maintain the desired texture and spread.

What is the purpose of the cornstarch in the cookie dough?

Cornstarch softens the texture of the cookie, making it tender and less dense. It’s a small but impactful addition that helps create that melt-in-your-mouth feel.

How do I prevent the marshmallows from falling off the cookies?

Press the marshmallows gently but firmly into the wet icing and allow the icing to completely harden before moving or stacking the cookies. The hardened icing acts like glue, keeping the marshmallows in place securely.

Final Thoughts

This Melted Snowman Cookie Recipe is pure joy wrapped in sugary sweetness, offering not only scrumptious cookies but an experience to savor while making and decorating them. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet winter afternoon or hosting a festive gathering, these charming cookies are sure to bring smiles and warmth. Don’t wait—gather your ingredients, and start creating these delightful melted snowmen today. They’re guaranteed to become a beloved tradition in your kitchen!

“`