Soft Peppermint Balls are the ultimate no-bake holiday candy recipe—a creamy, minty, and festive treat that brings pure Christmas joy in every bite. The moment you mix powdered sugar with cool peppermint extract, a wave of sweet, frosty aroma fills your kitchen, wrapping you in that cozy holiday feeling. Each piece melts on your tongue, delivering a buttery-smooth texture balanced with the refreshing snap of peppermint.

This easy peppermint candy recipe is perfect for beginners and busy holiday bakers who want to make something beautiful without turning on the oven. The red, green, and white swirls sparkle under a dusting of edible glitter, creating candies that double as edible décor. Whether you’re making homemade holiday gifts, preparing a festive dessert board, or just craving nostalgic Christmas candy, these Soft Peppermint Balls are the sweet reminder that the simplest recipes often create the brightest smiles.

Make a batch today, share them with friends, and watch your kitchen become the most joyful place this season!

Why You’ll Love This Soft Peppermint Balls

No oven required — a true no-bake candy recipe that saves time and energy.
Festive colors & sparkle — red, green, and white stripes with glittery shimmer.
Melt-in-your-mouth texture — soft, creamy, never grainy.
Customizable flavor — adjust peppermint strength or add vanilla for balance.
Kid-friendly project — fun to roll, color, and decorate.
Perfect for gifting — fits beautifully into tins, jars, or party favors.
Long shelf life — stays fresh for up to two weeks in the fridge.
Holiday nostalgia — reminiscent of classic peppermint patties and old-fashioned candy shops.
Instagram-worthy presentation — vibrant, glossy, and eye-catching.
Budget-friendly ingredients — made from staples you already have.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into making these delightful Soft Peppermint Balls, it’s essential to prep your kitchen to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Start by clearing and cleaning your workspace—a clean counter is a must! Gather your tools: you’ll need mixing bowls, a rubber spatula, measuring cups and spoons, and parchment paper for later. If you’d like to avoid staining your hands with food coloring, consider putting on a pair of disposable gloves. Pre-sifting your powdered sugar saves time and ensures a silky texture, so tackle that step before anything else. If you have a small countertop mixer, feel free to use it; it can make mixing the ingredients a breeze.

Ingredients

2 cups powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar) — sifted for best results
1 tablespoon light corn syrup — can substitute honey or maple syrup
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened — vegan butter works well for a dairy-free option
½ teaspoon peppermint extract — essential for that classic mint flavor
1 tablespoon milk (plus more if necessary) — whole, almond, or oat milk are great choices
Red gel food coloring — adds a vivid holiday color
Green gel food coloring — creates a festive contrast
Optional: edible glitter or luster dust — for a lovely finish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Peppermint Dough

To kick off your candy-making adventure, grab a medium mixing bowl. Combine the sifted powdered sugar, corn syrup, softened butter, peppermint extract, and milk. Use a rubber spatula to mix these ingredients together until you’ve formed a smooth and pliable dough. If the mixture feels too sticky, gradually add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the perfect consistency akin to soft cookie dough—one that’s easy to roll but not tacky. Pro Tip: Sifting your powdered sugar not only prevents lumps but also contributes to that ideal candy-shop finish you’re after!

Step 2: Divide and Color

Now that you’ve got your dough, it’s time to add a festive flair! Divide the peppermint dough into three equal portions. Keep one portion plain for contrast. With the second portion, add red gel food coloring, and for the third, add green. Gently knead each colored portion until the colors are uniformly blended. To keep your fingers free from dye, consider wearing gloves while doing this. Pro Tip: Always use gel or paste food coloring; avoid liquid dye, as it might alter the dough’s texture by adding unwanted moisture.

Step 3: Roll and Layer

On a clean surface dusted with powdered sugar to prevent sticking, begin rolling each of the colored dough portions into ropes about ½-inch thick. If you want to create a classic striped candy look, twist all three ropes together gently and roll them again to blend the colors into a lovely pattern. Cut the twist into 1-inch bite-sized pieces, or roll small pieces between your palms to form uniform balls. Pro Tip: For a unique twist on classic peppermint candies, flatten the rope slightly and cut it diagonally to create small squares.

Step 4: Add the Festive Touch

Once your candies are formed, place them on a sheet of parchment paper. This is the perfect stage to sprinkle them lightly with edible glitter or luster dust, which elevates their appearance from homemade to boutique-style confections worthy of any holiday gathering.

Step 5: Chill & Serve

To give the candies a firm, set texture, transfer them to a tray and pop them into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Once they’re set, store your delicious Soft Peppermint Balls in an airtight container, layering them with wax paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay soft, fresh, and packed with flavor for up to two weeks.

Variations

Protein: Consider adding crushed nuts such as almonds or pecans to the mixture for some delightful crunch.
Vegetables: Try blending in pureed spinach or beetroot for additional nutrition and a unique color twist.
Spices: Enhance the flavor profile by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.

Cooking Notes

Be sure to sift your powdered sugar before using; this step is crucial for achieving that ultra-smooth texture.
If you find that your dough seems too dry, a splash of milk will help achieve the perfect consistency.

Serving Suggestions

These adorable Soft Peppermint Balls are perfect as a festive addition to dessert tables.
Dress them up in decorative tins or jars as sweet homemade gifts for friends and family.

Tips

Have fun with the decorating! Involve kids for a family-friendly holiday project they will enjoy.
To maintain freshness, keep the candies in a cool, dry place.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (no baking involved!)
Total Time: 50 minutes (includes chilling time)

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 100 per piece (varies based on size)
Protein: 0.5g
Sodium: 5mg

FAQs

Can I use a different flavor instead of peppermint?

Absolutely! You can explore using vanilla, almond, or cinnamon extracts to create different flavor profiles.

How do I store the Soft Peppermint Balls?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness over time.

Can these candies be made in advance?

Yes! You can prepare these candies up to two weeks in advance, making them perfect for holiday gifting.

What can I use instead of corn syrup?

You may substitute honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness.

Conclusion

Soft Peppermint Balls are the perfect candy to kick off your holiday season. With no baking required and simple ingredients, this recipe is both beginner-friendly and a delightful way to involve kids in the kitchen. The vibrant red, green, and white colors, coupled with sparkling edible glitter, make these treats visually appealing for any festive occasion. Share your creations with loved ones and enjoy the Christmas spirit as you watch them light up with joy at every bite. Whether you’re gifting or indulging yourself, these Soft Peppermint Balls are bound to be a holiday favorite. Don’t forget to leave a comment below to share your experiences or variations of this delightful recipe!