The Magic of Soft Christmas Peppermints

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are the ultimate holiday treat! With their buttery texture and festive red swirl, they’ll bring sweet joy to your gatherings. Perfect for gifts or simply to indulge in the Christmas spirit, these mints are sure to warm hearts and spread cheer this season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: You don’t need any special skills or equipment. Just mix and shape!
  • Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery goodness and refreshing peppermint will delight your taste buds.
  • Versatile Treat: Great for holiday parties, gift baskets, or simply enjoying at home.
  • Customizable: Adjust the mint flavor and colors to suit your preference or occasion.
  • No-Bake Delight: Perfect for those who want a sweet treat without using the oven.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these festive mints, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process quick and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer
  • Spatula
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

  • Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining ingredients without spills.
  • Electric mixer: This tool ensures that the butter and sugar blend smoothly, giving you that perfect creamy texture.
  • Spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of the bowl and ensuring every bit of goodness is mixed in.
  • Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

These Soft Christmas Peppermints require simple ingredients that you likely already have at home.

For the Mints

  • ½ cup butter, softened 🧈 The richness of the butter is what gives these mints their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy blending.
  • 3 cups powdered sugar 🍚 Powdered sugar is the key to that smooth, creamy sweetness. It dissolves beautifully into the butter and creates the perfect dough for these mints.
  • 2 tbsp heavy whipping cream 🥛 A touch of cream adds extra richness and makes the mints even more velvety.
  • ¼ tsp peppermint extract 🍬 This is where the magic happens. Peppermint extract brings that signature, cool mint flavor. Adjust the amount based on how minty you like your mints.
  • Red gel food coloring 🎨 For that festive, holiday look! You’ll use this to create beautiful red-and-white swirls that evoke the spirit of Christmas.

How to Make The Magic of Soft Christmas Peppermints

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Start by clearing your countertop or workspace. Lay out all your ingredients and tools so everything is within reach.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

  1. In a mixing bowl, add the softened butter.
  2. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat until creamy.
  3. Gradually add in powdered sugar until combined well.

Step 3: Add Cream and Mint Flavoring

  1. Pour in heavy whipping cream and peppermint extract.
  2. Mix on low speed until everything is well combined and smooth.

Step 4: Color Your Dough

  1. Divide the dough into two equal portions.
  2. Add red gel food coloring to one portion, mixing until desired color is achieved.

Step 5: Shape Your Mints

  1. Roll small pieces of each dough color into logs or balls.
  2. Twist together gently to create a marbled effect.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

  1. Place shaped mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  2. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes until firm.
  3. Enjoy your delicious Soft Christmas Peppermints, or package them as delightful gifts!

With these steps, you’re ready to spread some holiday joy with your homemade treats!

How to Serve The Magic of Soft Christmas Peppermints

These delightful Soft Christmas Peppermints can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or looking for the perfect gift, these mints will enchant your guests and loved ones.

As Gifts

  • Gift Baskets: Arrange the mints in a festive basket with other treats for a sweet holiday gift.
  • Wrapped Treats: Individually wrap each mint in cellophane for a charming presentation that’s perfect for sharing.

At Holiday Gatherings

  • Dessert Table: Place these mints on your dessert table as a colorful and tasty addition that kids and adults will love.
  • Party Favors: Send guests home with small bags of these mints as a thank-you for attending your holiday celebration.

In Hot Beverages

  • Minty Hot Chocolate: Stir one of these mints into hot chocolate for an extra layer of creamy peppermint flavor.
  • Coffee Companion: Enjoy them alongside your coffee or tea for a refreshing palate cleanser after meals.

For Baking

  • Baking Ingredient: Crush the mints and incorporate them into cookies or brownies for a minty twist on classic recipes.
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How to Perfect The Magic of Soft Christmas Peppermints

Achieving the ideal texture and flavor in your Soft Christmas Peppermints is key. Here are some tips to help you master this festive treat.

  • Use Room Temperature Butter: This ensures easy blending with powdered sugar, creating that desired soft texture.
  • Sift Powdered Sugar: Sifting helps eliminate lumps, resulting in smoother candies without any graininess.
  • Chill Before Serving: A brief chill in the fridge allows the mints to firm up slightly, making them easier to handle.
  • Experiment with Flavoring: Adjust the peppermint extract based on your taste preference—more extract means a stronger mint flavor!
  • Color Swirls Carefully: When adding food coloring, use a toothpick to create beautiful swirls without overmixing.
  • Store Properly: Keep your mints in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and prevent them from sticking together.

Best Side Dishes for The Magic of Soft Christmas Peppermints

Complementing your Soft Christmas Peppermints with delicious side dishes can elevate any holiday spread. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

  1. Peppermint Bark: A festive treat made with layers of chocolate and crushed peppermint candies that pairs perfectly with your soft mints.
  2. Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon and nutmeg add a crunchy texture that balances the softness of the mints.
  3. Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits like strawberries, apples, and oranges provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the candy.
  4. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses along with crackers creates a savory option that complements the sweetness of peppermint treats.
  5. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a fondue station where guests can dip fruits and marshmallows, making it fun and interactive!
  6. Mini Cupcakes: Light cupcakes with peppermint frosting offer a sweet pairing that enhances the festive spirit without overwhelming flavors.
  7. Sugar Cookies: Classic sugar cookies can be decorated creatively alongside your peppermint candies for an inviting dessert display.
  8. Holiday Punch: A festive drink adds cheer to your gathering while harmonizing beautifully with sweet treats like these mints.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Soft Christmas Peppermints can be fun, but there are a few common mistakes you should watch out for.

  • Using cold butter – Cold butter makes it hard to mix and results in a dense texture. Always use softened butter at room temperature.
  • Not measuring powdered sugar correctly – Too much or too little powdered sugar can alter the dough consistency. Use the spoon-and-level method to measure accurately.
  • Skipping the peppermint extract – Omitting or reducing peppermint extract can result in bland mints. Be sure to add enough for that delightful mint flavor.
  • Overmixing the dough – Overmixing can make the mints tough instead of soft. Mix just until combined for a light and tender texture.
  • Ignoring the chilling step – Skipping this step may cause the mints to lose shape. Chill them before cutting for perfect results.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store Soft Christmas Peppermints in an airtight container.
  • They will last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing The Magic of Soft Christmas Peppermints

  • Wrap each mint individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper.
  • Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Magic of Soft Christmas Peppermints

  • Oven – Preheat to 200°F (93°C) and heat for about 5-10 minutes, checking regularly.
  • Microwave – Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds, ensuring they don’t melt completely.
  • Stovetop – Use a double boiler, gently warming until they soften. Stir occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making The Magic of Soft Christmas Peppermints.

Can I customize The Magic of Soft Christmas Peppermints?

Absolutely! You can add different extracts like vanilla or experiment with food colorings to create unique designs.

What if I don’t have peppermint extract?

You can substitute with other mint extracts, but adjust quantities based on flavor strength.

How do I make these mints dairy-free?

Use vegan butter and non-dairy cream substitutes for a delicious dairy-free version of these mints.

What is the best way to serve The Magic of Soft Christmas Peppermints?

They are perfect on their own or beautifully packaged as gifts during the holiday season.

Final Thoughts

The Magic of Soft Christmas Peppermints is not only an easy treat to make but also a delightful addition to your holiday celebrations. Their buttery texture and festive appearance make them ideal for gifting or indulging yourself. Feel free to customize your flavors and colors, ensuring these mints will bring joy to everyone who tries them!

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The Magic of Soft Christmas Peppermints

Soft Christmas Peppermints


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  • Author: Cara
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 24 mints 1x

Description

Indulge in the festive delight of The Magic of Soft Christmas Peppermints! These creamy, buttery mints are a perfect blend of sweetness and refreshing peppermint flavor, making them an irresistible treat for the holiday season. With their stunning red swirls and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they not only bring joy to your gatherings but also make delightful gifts that spread cheer. Easy to make without any baking required, these mints can be customized to suit your taste, whether you prefer a stronger mint flavor or unique color combinations. Prepare to enchant your friends and family with this charming holiday confection!


Ingredients

Scale
  • ½ cup butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp heavy whipping cream
  • ¼ tsp peppermint extract
  • Red gel food coloring

Instructions

  1. Prepare your workspace by clearing the countertop and laying out all ingredients and tools.
  2. In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter using an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar until well combined.
  3. Blend in the heavy whipping cream and peppermint extract on low speed until smooth.
  4. Divide the dough into two portions; mix red gel food coloring into one portion until desired color is achieved.
  5. Roll small pieces of each dough into logs or balls and twist them together to create beautiful swirls.
  6. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes until firm.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 70
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 0mg
  • Fat: 3g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: <1g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

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