Delightful Soft Christmas Peppermints You’ll Love to Make

As the frost begins to paint our windows with delicate patterns, I find myself drawn to the joys of the holiday season especially the sweet, familiar taste of homemade Soft Christmas Peppermints. This delightful treat not only fills the air with a nostalgic peppermint aroma but also brings back warm memories of crafting candies in the kitchen with loved ones.

I remember the thrill of rolling the dough, twisting those vibrant red and white stripes, and knowing that these perfectly adorable mints would soon adorn our holiday table. Whether as a festive gift or a sweet indulgence for yourself, these soft and creamy delights effortlessly elevate any holiday gathering.

In just 15 minutes of prep, you can create your very own batch, and though they require a little time to dry, the anticipation only adds to the charm. Whip up this fun and easy recipe, and bring a sprinkle of Christmas magic into your home!

Why are Soft Christmas Peppermints so special?

Homemade Delight: These Soft Christmas Peppermints are the perfect way to share the love of homemade treats with family and friends during the holiday season.

Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create sweet, fluffy candies that will impress everyone.

Nostalgic Memories: Gather the family in the kitchen and relive those cherished moments of holiday baking.

Versatile Gifting: Package them beautifully as thoughtful gifts or use them to decorate your festive dessert table.

Unique Flavor: The peppermint extract gives a refreshing taste that’s sure to awaken your holiday spirit.

Turn your kitchen into a winter wonderland and make these soft treats that will have everyone asking for seconds! For even more festive inspiration, check out our easy holiday baking ideas.

Soft Christmas Peppermints Ingredients

For the Batter

• ½ cup butter Softened for easy mixing and a creamy texture.
• 3 cups powdered sugar Contributes to the sweetness and silky consistency of the mints.
• 2 tbsp heavy whipping cream Helps achieve that delightful softness and rich flavor.
• ¼ tsp peppermint extract The key ingredient that imparts that classic holiday taste to your Soft Christmas Peppermints.
• Red gel food coloring Adds festive color, making these treats visually appealing for your holiday celebrations.

How to Make Soft Christmas Peppermints

1. Beat the Butter: Start by placing the softened butter in a mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer to beat it until it becomes light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for your candy.

2. Mix Ingredients: Slowly add in the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract. Continue beating the mixture until the dough is firm and smooth, resembling a soft candy texture.

3. Divide the Dough: Once your dough is ready, divide it into two parts. Keep ¾ of the dough white and color ¼ with red gel food coloring. This will give your mints those beautiful festive stripes!

4. Roll and Twist: Take small portions of both colored doughs and roll them into thin ropes. Gently twist together one red and one white rope, creating that signature candy cane look.

5. Dry the Mints: Allow the twisted mints to air dry for 1-2 hours. Afterward, cut them into bite-sized pieces. For the best texture, let them dry completely for a full 24 hours before serving.

Optional: Try adding a sprinkle of crushed peppermint on top before they dry for extra festivity!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are perfect for busy home cooks looking to get a head start on holiday festivities! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance and store it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. This keeps the dough fresh and ready for twisting whenever you’re ready to craft your treats. Once you re ready to create your mints, simply take the dough out, roll it into ropes, twist, and let them dry for 1-2 hours. Remember, to maintain that delightful softness that makes these mints so special, allow them to air dry for a full 24 hours before serving. Enjoy delicious, homemade treats with minimal last-minute effort!

How to Store and Freeze Soft Christmas Peppermints

Room Temperature: Store these Soft Christmas Peppermints in a cool, dry place in an airtight container for up to 1 week to maintain their softness.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the mints in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the mints in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving to restore their delightful texture.

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat these treats! Simply serve them as they are for a refreshing peppermint delight.

What to Serve with Soft Christmas Peppermints?

The sweet aroma of peppermint lingers in the air, making your holiday gathering feel truly magical.

• Rich Hot Chocolate: This warm beverage pairs perfectly with the cool, minty taste of the mints, creating a delightful contrast. Imagine sipping rich hot chocolate while enjoying a peppermint it’s pure bliss!

• Creamy Eggnog: The smooth, spiced flavor of eggnog harmonizes beautifully with the refreshing taste of peppermint. Enjoying them together elevates your holiday indulgence.

• Festive Sugar Cookies: Soft, buttery sugar cookies provide a gentle sweetness that complements the minty flavor. These classic treats make a wonderful addition to your holiday dessert spread.

• Chewy Gingerbread Cookies: The spiciness of gingerbread is a delightful balance to the refreshing mints. Their contrasting flavors create an inviting holiday treat experience.

• Peppermint Bark: For an extra peppermint kick, serve these alongside peppermint bark. It brings visual appeal and a sensational crunch, perfect for any holiday gathering.

• Lemonade Spritzer: The citrusy brightness of a lemonade spritzer refreshes the palate, making it a surprising but delightful drink option alongside your mints.

Let these additions create a festive table filled with love and flavors that dance together, making your holiday moments unforgettable!

Soft Christmas Peppermints Variations

Feel free to add your own twist to these delightful Soft Christmas Peppermints, making them uniquely yours!

• Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and heavy cream with a plant-based cream for a delicious dairy-free treat. Experience the soft melt-in-mouth magic without missing out on flavor!

• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over the finished mints for a rich twist. The combination of cool peppermint and warm chocolate is a holiday match made in heaven!

• Colorful Stripes: Use green gel food coloring alongside red for festive cheer. Your mints will not only taste great but look even more joyful on your dessert table!

• Spicy Peppermint: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the dough for a surprising heat kick. This variation balances the sweetness with a kick, providing an unexpected yet delightful zing!

• Minty Chip: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a delicious chocolate and mint combination. Each bite becomes a mini party in your mouth, elevating the classic recipe!

• Cocoa Fusion: Swap ¼ cup of powdered sugar for cocoa powder for a chocolate-mint hybrid. These heavenly mints will satisfy both chocolate lovers and peppermint fans.

• Nutty Touch: Add finely chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for a crunchy texture. This addition creates a pleasing contrast with the soft, creamy mints.

• Seasonal Sprinkles: Before drying, sprinkle some edible glitter or holiday-themed sprinkles on top. These will make your mints sparkle like Christmas lights, adding a fun festive flair!

These variations allow you to explore your creativity while making Soft Christmas Peppermints, bringing even more joy into your holiday season!

Tips for the Best Soft Christmas Peppermints

• Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature. Cold butter won’t achieve the fluffy texture you want for your Soft Christmas Peppermints.

• Powdered Sugar Gradually: Add the powdered sugar gradually to avoid a sugar cloud! Mixing it in slowly helps ensure a smooth dough.

• Coloring Technique: When adding red gel food coloring, start small. You can always add more if you want a deeper hue, but it s tougher to lighten a dark color.

• Drying Time: Patience is key! Allowing the mints to dry for the full 24 hours is essential for achieving the perfect texture; don t rush this step.

• Storing Tips: Store your mints in an airtight container to keep them fresh. This prevents them from becoming hard or developing a crust.

Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right butter for Soft Christmas Peppermints?
Absolutely! Use unsalted butter that s been softened to room temperature. Avoid using margarine, as it can alter the texture and flavor of your mints. The butter should feel pliable yet firm this is crucial for achieving that light, fluffy consistency.

Can I store Soft Christmas Peppermints in the freezer?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Soft Christmas Peppermints, place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours. This will help them return to their delightful softness.

What s the best way to store Soft Christmas Peppermints?
To keep your mints fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to let them warm back to room temperature before serving for that perfect texture!

Why did my mints not dry properly?
Very! If your mints aren’t drying as expected, this might be due to too much humidity in the environment or if they were rolled too thick. For best results, ensure they are rolled into thin ropes and set in a well-ventilated area for drying. Allowing them to dry for a full 24 hours is essential, so don t rush this crucial step!

Can I use a different flavor instead of peppermint?
Certainly! If you are looking for an alternative flavor, vanilla or almond extract can be delightful substitutes. Just keep the quantities the same, about ¼ teaspoon, for the perfect taste balance. However, be mindful that this will change the festive feel of your Soft Christmas Peppermints!

Are there any dietary considerations for Soft Christmas Peppermints?
Definitely! These treats are vegetarian but not vegan due to the use of butter and heavy whipping cream. If you’re catering to guests with dairy allergies, consider using dairy-free alternatives. Coconut cream can be a great substitute for heavy cream, and there are plenty of dairy-free butter options available in stores. Always check ingredient labels to ensure safety!