Peppermint Meltaways

PEPPERMINT MELTAWAYS

1 cup butter, softened
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
1/2 tsp. peppermint extract
1-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch

FROSTING:
2 Tbsp. butter, softened
1-1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
2 Tbsp. milk
1/4 tsp. peppermint extract
2 to 3 drops red food coloring, optional
1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies

In a small bowl, cream butter and confectioners' sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in extract. Combine flour and cornstarch; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Shape into 1-in. balls. Place 2 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 350° for 10-12 minutes or until bottoms are lightly browned. Remove to wire racks to cool. In a small bowl, beat butter until fluffy. Add the confectioners’ sugar, milk, extract and food coloring if desired; beat until smooth. Spread over cooled cookies; sprinkle with crushed candies. Makes 42 candies.