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Peppermints. Also known as Old-Fashioned Butter Mints, these melt-in-your-mouth morsels have been a staple at family gatherings and holiday tables for generations. Made with just a few simple ingredients, these mints are as festive as they are easy to make. Whether you’re creating gift boxes, filling a candy dish, or looking for a simple project to make with the kids, these creamy, soft peppermint candies are a perfect addition to your holiday festivities. Plus, the sweet pastel colors add a cheerful touch, making them a beautiful—and delicious—homemade gift!
What Makes These Mints Special?
- Delicate Texture: Unlike store-bought mints, these homemade versions have a soft, melt-in-your-mouth quality that’s unforgettable.
- Easy to Customize: Add a few drops of food coloring for a festive touch, or experiment with extracts for a range of flavors.
- Perfect for Gifting: Wrap them up in small bags or tins for an easy holiday gift that everyone will enjoy.
- No Baking Required: This recipe is as easy as mixing, shaping, and letting them set—no baking necessary!
Ingredients
For around 50-60 mints:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (or more to taste)
- 1 pinch of salt
- 3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (more if needed for desired texture)
- Food coloring (optional; red and green for Christmas, or your preferred festive colors)
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Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a medium mixing bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add the peppermint extract and a pinch of salt, mixing until combined.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. The mixture will start to become crumbly, which is okay.
- Add Cream and Color:
- Add the heavy cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the mixture becomes smooth and has a dough-like consistency. It should be soft but not sticky.
- If you want to add color, divide the dough into portions and add a few drops of food coloring to each, kneading until evenly mixed.
- Shape the Mints:
- Lightly dust a clean surface with powdered sugar. Roll each portion of dough into thin logs (about 1/2 inch in diameter), then cut into small, bite-sized pieces (around 1/2 inch long).
- Alternatively, you can shape the dough into small balls and gently press them flat with a fork to create a classic butter mint look.
- Dry and Store:
- Place the mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them dry at room temperature for at least 24 hours to set.
- Once dry, transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored for up to 2 weeks, making them perfect for holiday prep!
Tips for Perfect Butter Mints
- Adjusting Minty Flavor: For a stronger peppermint flavor, add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of extract. Just be cautious, as a little peppermint goes a long way.
- Color Variety: For a holiday flair, try red and green food coloring. You can also stick to classic white if you prefer a traditional look.
- Storing for Freshness: These mints do well in an airtight container. If giving as a gift, pack them into holiday tins or jars with festive ribbons for a lovely homemade touch.
Serving Ideas and Gifting Tips
Soft Christmas Peppermints make the perfect addition to holiday dessert tables, pairing well with coffee, hot cocoa, or as an after-dinner treat. They’re also delightful additions to holiday gift baskets or cookie boxes, offering a unique break from the usual cookies and fudge. For gifting, consider wrapping them in cellophane bags tied with a festive ribbon or placing them in small holiday tins for a charming, nostalgic present. Add a little tag or label for a personal touch that brings even more holiday cheer.
Why These Mints are a Holiday Staple
There’s a reason these Old-Fashioned Butter Mints have been a holiday favorite for so long. They bring a bit of old-world charm to the season and offer a taste that’s both refreshing and comforting. Unlike harder mints, these butter mints melt on the tongue, releasing a soft peppermint flavor that lingers. Plus, making them from scratch adds a personal, homemade quality that’s simply irreplaceable. So, this holiday season, try your hand at these classic Soft Christmas Peppermints. They’re sure to become a sweet addition to your own holiday traditions!
