Name: Soft Christmas Peppermints: Creamy Bliss for Holiday Joy
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 750 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 4 cups powdered sugar (sift before measuring); 2 tablespoons heavy cream (can substitute with milk); 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (adjust to taste); food coloring (optional)

As I flipped through my grandmother’s old recipe book, a faded page caught my eye, reminding me of the magical moments spent in her kitchen during the holidays. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of Soft Christmas Peppermints, those delightful old-fashioned butter mints that melt in your mouth and fill the air with a sweet, minty aroma. With just a handful of simple ingredients, these homemade treats are not only a breeze to prepare but also a heartwarming way to bring loved ones together. Their creamy texture and nostalgic flavor make them the perfect festive addition to any holiday gathering. How could you possibly resist? Let’s dive into this charming recipe and fill our homes with the spirit of Christmas!

Why are Soft Christmas Peppermints special?

Creamy Comfort: These delightful mints melt in your mouth, offering a soothing, cool sensation that’s perfect for festive gatherings.

Nostalgic Treat: Made from a cherished recipe, they evoke warm holiday memories, bridging generations with their classic charm.

Easy to Make: With a few simple ingredients, you’re just steps away from creating homemade magic!

Customizable Fun: Use food coloring or different flavor extracts to personalize your mints! Beyond peppermint, try vanilla for a unique twist.

Gift-Worthy Goodness: They make wonderful homemade gifts; package them in jars for a touch of love to share with family and friends.

Whether you’re planning a holiday party or looking for a sweet gift, these Soft Christmas Peppermints are the perfect treat to brighten up any occasion.

Soft Christmas Peppermints Ingredients

For the Peppermints

Unsalted Butter – Provides creaminess and richness; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and achieves a smooth texture; sift before measuring for the best results.
Heavy Cream – Contributes to the creamy consistency; can be replaced with milk for a lighter version.
Peppermint Extract – Delivers the iconic mint flavor; adjust to taste, or use mint oil for a bolder taste.
Food Coloring (optional) – Enhances visual appeal; use natural colorants for a healthier option if desired.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Christmas Peppermints

Step 1: Cream the Butter
In a medium mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter until it becomes light and creamy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing. The butter should be fluffy and pale in color before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Incorporate Sugar and Cream
Gradually add 4 cups of sifted powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream to the creamed butter, alternating as you mix. Beat on low speed to prevent a sugar cloud, then increase to medium until smooth and combined, about 3 minutes. The final mixture should be thick and soft, resembling a creamy dough.

Step 3: Add the Peppermint Extract
Stir in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract using a spatula or the mixer on low speed. Continue mixing until the extract is fully incorporated, about 30 seconds. Taste the mixture to adjust the mint flavor if desired, keeping in mind that the flavor will intensify as they set.

Step 4: Color the Dough (Optional)
If you’d like colorful Soft Christmas Peppermints, divide the mixture into portions and add a few drops of food coloring to each. Use your hands or a spatula to knead the color in until evenly distributed. This step allows you to create festive shades, making your mints as delightful to look at as they are to taste.

Step 5: Roll the Dough into Ropes
On a clean surface, take a portion of the mixture and roll it into a long rope about 1/2-inch thick. Repeat this process with each portion of dough. As you work, keep the ropes uniform in thickness for consistent mints, giving them a polished look for your holiday gatherings.

Step 6: Cut into Pieces
Using a sharp knife, cut each rope into small pieces, roughly 1/2-inch in length. Arrange the cut mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for drying. The Soft Christmas Peppermints should now resemble little pillows of sweetness, ready for their transformation.

Step 7: Allow to Dry
Let the mints sit at room temperature for 12 hours or overnight to dry completely. This will help them firm up and achieve their signature melt-in-your-mouth texture. Choose a cool, dry area for drying, ensuring they’re undisturbed for the best result.

Step 8: Store or Gift
Once dry, the Soft Christmas Peppermints can be enjoyed immediately or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Consider packing them in decorative jars or boxes to share as heartfelt homemade gifts, adding a touch of love to your holiday festivities.

What to Serve with Soft Christmas Peppermints

The festive cheer doesn’t have to end with just these delightful mints; consider pairing them with charming accompaniments that elevate your holiday spread.

Homemade Hot Cocoa: Rich and creamy, this warm drink complements the coolness of the mints, making each sip a cozy delight. The rich chocolate provides a perfect contrast to the peppermint flavors.
Gingerbread Cookies: Their spiced warmth balances the sweet minty notes, creating a festive flavor harmony. Placing these alongside the mints invites a delightful comparison of textures and tastes.
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: Adding a salty crunch to the mix, these treats create a fun contrast with the smoothness of the Soft Christmas Peppermints. The sweet-salty combination is sure to please everyone at the table.
Eggnog: This creamy, festive beverage enhances the holiday spirit and pairs wonderfully with the minty flavors. Sipping on eggnog while enjoying the mints creates a joyous, celebratory experience.
Sugar Cookies with Icing: Their soft, buttery texture matches tenderly with the mints’ delightful melt-in-your-mouth profile. Add a touch of pastel frosting to bring a splash of festive color to your dessert display.
Sparkling Water: For a refreshing palate cleanser, serve fizzy sparkling water infused with slices of lemon or lime. The lightness of the drink will rejuvenate taste buds between mints.
Milk: A classic companion, the creamy richness of milk perfectly balances the peppermint’s sweetness, making each bite even more comforting. It’s like taking a stroll down memory lane to those childhood snacks!

Combining these delicious treats with your Soft Christmas Peppermints encourages sharing and joy, stirring memories and creating new ones in exceptional holiday gatherings.

How to Store and Freeze Soft Christmas Peppermints

Room Temperature: Store the Soft Christmas Peppermints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. This keeps them fresh and ready for holiday snacking!

Fridge: If your home is warm, consider refrigerating the mints. They can last up to three weeks in an airtight container; just bring them back to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the mints in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months, keeping that festive spirit alive!

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat these mints; they are best enjoyed straight from storage. Just be sure to let them sit a few minutes if they come from the fridge or freezer.

Make Ahead Options

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are a dream come true for busy home cooks looking to save time over the holiday season! You can prepare the peppermint mixture up to 3 days in advance and store it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully without sacrificing quality. Just remember to let the mixture come to room temperature before rolling it into ropes. Once formed, the mints need to dry at room temperature for 12 hours or overnight. To ensure they remain fresh, place the dried mints in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. With these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy more time with family while treating them to delicious homemade Soft Christmas Peppermints!

Soft Christmas Peppermints Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore your creativity in the kitchen and customize these delightful mints!

Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter and use almond milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option. You won’t sacrifice any of the creamy goodness!
Flavor Variations: Try swapping peppermint extract for other extracts like vanilla, almond, or even orange for a new flavor profile that shakes up the tradition.
Natural Colors: Use beet juice for red or spirulina powder for green to color your mints naturally and keep your treats wholesome. It’s a fun way to stay festive while being mindful of what you put in.
Chunky Mints: Fold in mini chocolate chips or crushed candy canes after mixing to add textures and surprise elements in each bite. They’ll bring extra joy to your holiday gatherings!
Mini Mints: Roll the peppermint mixture into smaller balls instead of ropes for bite-sized mini mints. Perfect for snack platters or party favors!
Spiced Twist: Infuse the mixture with cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the mint beautifully. It’ll make your mints feel extra festive!
Gift-Worthy Packaging: Consider placing the mints in cute holiday tins or jars, layered with colored paper, to create a lovely gift. These handmade treats are sure to charm anyone on your list!
Save for Later: Need a break? Store some mints in the freezer for a refreshing treat later on. These Soft Christmas Peppermints will be waiting for you like holiday magic!

The possibilities are endless—let your imagination lead the way as you craft your very own Soft Christmas Peppermints!

Expert Tips for Soft Christmas Peppermints

Butter Temperature: Ensure the butter is at room temperature. This helps create a creamy texture and makes mixing easier, preventing any lumps.
Mixing Speed: Start mixing on low to prevent powdered sugar clouds. Gradually increase to medium speed to achieve a smooth and creamy mixture without overmixing.
Peppermint Adjustments: If you prefer a stronger mint flavor, feel free to increase the peppermint extract. Just remember, the taste intensifies as the mints dry.
Uniform Rolls: Roll the dough into ropes of the same thickness to ensure even cooking. This keeps the mints looking professional and tasting consistent.
Drying Environment: Choose a cool, dry space for drying the Soft Christmas Peppermints. A humid environment can affect their texture, so make sure they harden properly.

Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right butter for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting butter for your Soft Christmas Peppermints, go for unsalted butter that’s softened to room temperature. This not only helps in achieving that creamy texture but also allows for easier mixing, ensuring a smooth and uniform dough.

What is the best way to store Soft Christmas Peppermints?
To keep your Soft Christmas Peppermints fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If your kitchen tends to be warm, consider placing them in the fridge, where they’ll stay good for up to three weeks. Just remember to let them come back to room temperature for the best texture!

Can I freeze Soft Christmas Peppermints?
Certainly! To freeze your mints, start by laying them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once they are frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep their deliciousness for up to three months! When you’re ready to enjoy them, just let them thaw at room temperature.

What should I do if my mints are too soft?
If you find your Soft Christmas Peppermints aren’t setting properly, it’s often due to the environment being too humid or not enough powdered sugar. To troubleshoot, simply sprinkle in a little more sifted powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, mixing until you reach your desired consistency. If over-mixing is a concern, try blending gently; this helps to maintain that lovely soft texture!

Are Soft Christmas Peppermints suitable for pets?
No, it’s best to keep these mints away from pets. The ingredients used, like sugar and peppermint extract, are not easily digestible for them. Always check ingredient labels or consult a vet before sharing any human treats with your furry friends!

How can I adjust the flavor or appearance of my Soft Christmas Peppermints?
Very! You have plenty of options! Try using vanilla or almond extract instead of peppermint for a different flavor profile. For a festive touch, use food coloring to divide the dough into vibrant colors. To do this, simply add a few drops and knead until evenly colored to create delightful variations that are as beautiful as they are tasty!