why make this recipe

Soft Christmas Peppermints, also known as Old-Fashioned Butter Mints, are a delightful treat perfect for the holiday season. They not only taste amazing but also bring a lovely festive touch to any gathering. These mints are soft and creamy, making them a favorite for both kids and adults. They add a sweet, minty flavor that complements holiday dishes and treats, and they can be wrapped up as gifts or enjoyed as a treat at home. Making these mints from scratch allows you to customize their color and flavor intensity, giving you a personal touch for your festive celebrations.

how to make Soft Christmas Peppermints

Ingredients:

½ cup butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
2 tbsp heavy whipping cream
¼ tsp peppermint extract (adjust to taste)
Red gel food coloring

Directions:

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until fluffy.
Slowly mix in the cream, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract. Beat until the dough becomes firm and smooth.
Divide the dough into two parts. Leave ¾ of the dough white and color the remaining ¼ with red gel food coloring.
Roll out small portions of each dough color into ropes and twist them together. Pinch off small sections to form mints.
Let the mints air dry for 1-2 hours, then cut them into bite-sized pieces. Allow them to dry for 24 hours before serving.

how to serve Soft Christmas Peppermints

Serve these delightful mints in a festive bowl or jar as part of your holiday dessert table. They make great after-meal treats and can be enjoyed with a warm beverage like hot cocoa or coffee. You can also wrap them in decorative paper for thoughtful party favors or gifts.

how to store Soft Christmas Peppermints

Store your Soft Christmas Peppermints in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. Keep them away from direct sunlight and heat to maintain their soft texture and flavor.

tips to make Soft Christmas Peppermints

Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
Adjust the peppermint extract to your taste. Start with a little and add more if you want a stronger mint flavor.
Be creative with the colors! Use green food coloring for a classic Christmas look or make other combinations for different occasions.

variation

You can experiment with different flavors by substituting the peppermint extract with other extracts like vanilla or almond. You can also add colored sugar crystals on top for a fun texture and extra sweetness.

FAQs

Can I use regular food coloring instead of gel food coloring?
Yes, you can use regular food coloring, but gel food coloring typically gives a more vibrant color without adding extra liquid to the dough.

How long can I keep the mints?
These mints can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks. They may lose their softness over time, so enjoy them fresh!

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before shaping and drying the mints. Just let it sit at room temperature for a bit before working with it.