The holiday season brings with it a sense of joy and festivity, and what better way to spread that cheer than with homemade treats? These Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) are not only a delightful addition to your dessert table but also serve as charming gifts for friends and family. With their creamy texture and the refreshing kick of peppermint, these mints are sure to become a staple in your holiday traditions.
One of the best things about these Butter Mints is their simplicity. Made with just a handful of ingredients, they are a breeze to whip up in the kitchen. Whether you are an experienced baker or a novice in the candy-making department, you’ll find this no-bake recipe easy to follow. Moreover, they are perfect for any holiday gathering—be it a festive party or a cozy family dinner—making them a must-try Christmas candy.
Customizable with colorful gel food coloring, these mints allow for creative expression while you prepare them. Adding a touch of festive flair to your cookie trays or after-dinner bites, they not only taste fabulous but look the part too. Let’s dive into the details of how to create these scrumptious treats!
Why You’ll Love This Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe
- Melt-in-your-Mouth Texture: Creamy and buttery, these mints dissolve beautifully on your palate, making them an irresistible treat.
- Quick and Easy Recipe: With a prep time of just 20 minutes and no baking required, you can make these mints in no time.
- Festive and Fun: Customize them with various colors and shapes to suit your holiday theme.
- Perfect for Gifting: These delightful mints make for thoughtful homemade gifts that friends and family will appreciate.
- Versatile Uses: Great for parties, cookie trays, or simply to snack on after dinner.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the delightful world of mint-making, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. You don’t need much, but a few key items will ensure your success. Start by making sure your work surface is clean and clear of any distractions—this helps to keep the focus on the fun part: creating the mints!
The primary tools you’ll need include a large mixing bowl and either a hand or stand mixer for the creaming process. A spatula is also helpful for scraping down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything blends evenly. Measuring cups and spoons will be essential for accurately measuring the ingredients. If you decide to mold your mints, having decorative candy molds or cookie cutters on hand will elevate the presentation.
Don’t forget parchment paper for lining your trays, as this will prevent the mints from sticking during the drying phase. Once everything is set up, you can enjoy the process of making these festive treats!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (omit if using salted butter)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- Gel food coloring (red, green, or festive options)
- Optional decorative candy molds or cookie cutters
Instructions
Step 1: Cream the Butter
Begin by placing the softened butter into your large mixing bowl. Using either a hand mixer or a stand mixer, cream the butter on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it establishes the base texture for your mints. The fluffiness of the butter will help incorporate air into the mixture, giving your mints a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Step 2: Mix in the Cream and Extract
Once the butter is adequately creamed, add the heavy cream and peppermint extract into the bowl. Beat the mixture until it is smoothly blended—this introduces the minty flavor that characterizes your treats. The combination of the cream and extract ensures that every bite will be bursting with peppermint goodness!
Step 3: Incorporate the Sugar
Now it’s time to add the powdered sugar. Do this gradually, one cup at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. This step is important to prevent a sugar cloud from forming and to create a dough-like consistency. As you combine the sugar, you’ll notice that the dough becomes thicker and more pliable. Aim for a consistency that allows you to roll it out without it sticking excessively to your hands.
Step 4: Divide and Color the Dough
Once your dough is ready, divide it into smaller portions based on the number of colors you wish to use. Incorporate gel food coloring into each portion, kneading the dough until the colors are evenly distributed. This creative process allows you to craft vibrant mints that will look festive and appealing. Don’t hesitate to get a little creative with the colors; mixing shades can lead to beautiful results!
Step 5: Shape the Mints
To shape your mints, take each colored portion of dough and roll it into a rope about 1/2 inch thick. Then, using a sharp knife or dough cutter, slice the rope into bite-sized pieces. If you prefer a fancier look, press the dough into decorative molds or use cookie cutters to create fun shapes. Ensure that the pieces are uniform in size for even drying.
Step 6: Dry the Mints
Once shaped, arrange the mints on a tray lined with parchment paper, giving them space to dry out. Allow the mints to sit at room temperature for about 4 to 6 hours or overnight if possible. This drying period is crucial as it helps the mints set, making them firmer and more enjoyable to eat. Be patient; the wait will be worth it!
Step 7: Store the Mints
After the mints have sufficiently dried, carefully transfer them to an airtight container. To preserve their integrity and prevent sticking, line the container with parchment paper between layers of mints. Store them in a cool, dry place, and they will remain fresh and delicious for weeks.
Variations
- Protein: Enhance your mints by adding crushed peppermint candies for added texture or even a dash of cocoa powder for chocolate-flavored mints.
- Vegetables: For a unique twist, consider experimenting with flavors—cardamom or cinnamon can add an exciting kick to your traditional peppermint.
- Spices: Replace peppermint extract with other flavor extracts like vanilla, almond, or even coffee for a non-traditional mint!
Cooking Notes
- Let the butter soften at room temperature before starting—this ensures easier creaming and better consistency.
- Gel food coloring works best for vibrant colors. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until you achieve the desired shade.
- If your dough feels too sticky, add a little additional powdered sugar to firm it up slightly.
- Air drying provides the best texture; avoid using heat sources which can cause uneven drying.
Serving Suggestions
- These delightful mints can be served in decorative bowls during holiday gatherings, adding a touch of charm to your festive table.
- Pair them with coffee or tea for a refreshing after-dinner treat that balances the meal.
Tips
- Try making a rainbow of mints by dividing the dough into multiple portions and coloring each differently!
- For added flair, dust the tops of the mints with edible glitter for a festive presentation.
- Don’t rush the drying process; the mints need adequate time to dry out properly to achieve the right texture.
- Encourage family members to help you in the shaping process; it’s a great way to bond during the holiday season.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: None (No Bake)
- Total Time: 4–6 hours drying + 20 minutes prep
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 30 calories per mint (based on serving size)
- Protein: 0.2g per mint
- Sodium: 5mg per mint
FAQs
Can I use a different flavor extract?
Absolutely! While peppermint is traditional, you can experiment with other flavors like almond, vanilla, or even chocolate for unique variations.
How do I store my butter mints?
Store your mints in an airtight container with parchment paper in between layers to prevent sticking. Keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! These mints store well and can be made several days in advance. They’ll last fresh for weeks when stored correctly.
What if the dough is too sticky?
If you find the dough is too sticky to work with, simply add a little more powdered sugar until you achieve a manageable consistency.
Conclusion
Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) are more than just a treat; they represent a cherished holiday tradition. By making them at home, you not only fill your own home with the delightful aroma of peppermint but also create sweet memories with friends and family. These mints are incredibly easy to personalize, allowing you to experiment with colors and flavors that match your festive spirit perfectly. As you gather with loved ones this season, share your delicious creations and inspire others to try their hand at this classic holiday candy. It’s a recipe that encapsulates the essence of togetherness, joy, and flavor—perfect for making your Christmas celebration even sweeter. So gather your supplies, follow the instructions, and let’s make some holiday magic with these beautiful mints!
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Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)
- Total Time: 4–6 hours drying + 20 minutes prep
- Yield: Approximately 30 mints 1x
Description
Soft Christmas Peppermints are a delightful treat perfect for holiday gatherings or as gifts!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (omit if using salted butter)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- Gel food coloring (red, green, or festive options)
- Optional decorative candy molds or cookie cutters
Instructions
- Begin by placing the softened butter into your large mixing bowl. Using either a hand mixer or a stand mixer, cream the butter on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy.
- Once the butter is adequately creamed, add the heavy cream and peppermint extract into the bowl. Beat the mixture until it is smoothly blended.
- Now it’s time to add the powdered sugar. Do this gradually, one cup at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- Once your dough is ready, divide it into smaller portions based on the number of colors you wish to use. Incorporate gel food coloring into each portion, kneading the dough until the colors are evenly distributed.
- To shape your mints, take each colored portion of dough and roll it into a rope about 1/2 inch thick. Slice the rope into bite-sized pieces.
- Once shaped, arrange the mints on a tray lined with parchment paper, giving them space to dry out. Allow the mints to sit at room temperature for about 4 to 6 hours or overnight if possible.
- After the mints have sufficiently dried, carefully transfer them to an airtight container, lining the container with parchment paper between layers of mints.
Notes
These mints are perfect for gifting and customizable with various colors and shapes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: None (No Bake)
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 30 calories per mint
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Protein: 0.2 g