Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

If you’re looking for a delightful holiday treat that captures the essence of Christmas, look no further than these Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints). This recipe is a cherished tradition in my family, evoking memories of cozy gatherings and festive cheer. Each mint is creamy, buttery, and refreshingly minty, making them perfect not just for the holidays but for any occasion that calls for a sweet indulgence.

What makes these mints so special is their melt-in-your-mouth texture and simple ingredients. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re gifting them to friends or enjoying them with loved ones, these mints are sure to bring smiles all around!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious batch of mints that everyone will love.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike adore the creamy texture and refreshing flavor—perfect for sharing during the holidays!
• Make-ahead convenience: These mints can be prepared in advance and stored, making holiday baking less stressful.
• Customizable colors: You can add a splash of color with food dye to fit any festive theme or occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for these Soft Christmas Peppermints is a breeze! They are all simple and wholesome, guaranteed to make your kitchen smell delightful. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Mints

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• A pinch of salt
• Red food coloring (optional)
• Granulated sugar (for coating)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or the occasion. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add chocolate: Mix in some cocoa powder for a chocolatey peppermint treat.
• Use different extracts: Swap out peppermint extract for other flavors like vanilla or almond for a unique twist.
• Shape it differently: Instead of traditional mints, roll the mixture into balls or use cookie cutters for festive shapes.
• Top with crushed candy canes: For extra crunch and holiday spirit, sprinkle some crushed candy canes on top before they set.

How to Make Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

Step 1: Cream the Butter

Start by creaming together the softened butter and sweetened condensed milk in a large mixing bowl. This step is crucial because it creates a smooth base that will allow the powdered sugar to combine evenly. Use an electric mixer if you have one—it really makes this part easier!

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until everything is well incorporated. This will help prevent a sugary cloud from forming! The mixture should be thick but still soft enough to mold with your hands.

Step 3: Flavor It Up

Stir in the peppermint extract and salt. This step adds that delicious minty flavor we all love! If you’re feeling festive, now’s the time to add a few drops of red food coloring and mix until you achieve your desired shade.

Step 4: Shape Your Mints

Dust your hands with granulated sugar to prevent sticking. Pinch off small pieces of dough and roll them into balls or shape them as you prefer. Place each mint on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Allow to Set

Let your mints sit at room temperature for about an hour until they firm up. This allows their wonderful texture to develop fully! Once set, enjoy these treats or store them in an airtight container for later.

These Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) are bound to become a favorite in your home just as they are in mine. Happy mint-making!

Pro Tips for Making Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

Making these delightful mints is a breeze, but a few tips will ensure your peppermint candies turn out perfectly every time!

• Use softened butter: Starting with softened butter allows for easier mixing and a smoother texture in the final product. It helps create that melt-in-your-mouth consistency we all love.

• Sift powdered sugar: Sifting the powdered sugar before adding it to the mixture prevents lumps and ensures a creamy, smooth finish. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect candy texture.

• Adjust mint flavor to your taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of peppermint extract based on your personal preference. If you love a strong mint flavor, add a little more for an extra refreshing kick!

• Color creatively: If you’re feeling festive, use red food coloring to give half of the mixture a vibrant hue. Swirling two colors together creates beautiful marbled mints that are visually appealing.

• Coat with granulated sugar: Rolling the mints in granulated sugar after they’ve set adds a delightful crunch and prevents them from sticking together. Plus, it gives them that classic candy look!

How to Serve Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are not only delicious but also fun to present! Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply enjoying them at home, here are some ideas on how to serve these festive treats.

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of fresh mint adds a pop of color and enhances the minty aroma, making your presentation even more inviting.
• Chocolate drizzle: A light drizzle of melted chocolate over the mints can add an elegant touch and create a wonderful flavor combination with the peppermint.

Side Dishes

• Hot cocoa: A warm cup of rich hot cocoa pairs perfectly with these mints, creating a cozy winter treat that everyone will enjoy.
• Fruit platter: A refreshing fruit platter featuring seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries offers a light contrast to the sweetness of the mints.
• Cheese board: Create a cheese board with assorted cheeses and crackers. The savory notes will balance beautifully with the sweetness of your peppermint candies.
• Coffee or tea: Serving these mints alongside warm coffee or herbal tea makes for a comforting end to your meal or an enjoyable afternoon treat.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to impress your friends and family with these delightful Soft Christmas Peppermints! Enjoy spreading some holiday cheer!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy festive treats without the last-minute rush. You can easily make them ahead of time and store or freeze them for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep mints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• If your home is warm, consider refrigerating them to maintain their softness.
• Layer them between parchment paper if stacking in a container to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Place mints in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen mints to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; simply thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat these candies; they’re meant to be enjoyed soft and cool!
• If they become too firm after refrigeration or freezing, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Soft Christmas Peppermints!

Can I customize the flavor of Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)?

Absolutely! You can replace peppermint extract with other extracts such as vanilla, almond, or even citrus flavors for a unique twist.

How do I achieve the perfect texture for my Soft Christmas Peppermints?

To get that melt-in-your-mouth texture, ensure your butter is softened properly and mix the ingredients until smooth. Avoid overmixing after adding the powdered sugar.

How long do Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) last?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these mints will last for about one week. For longer storage, consider freezing them!

Can I use natural food coloring instead of red food coloring?

Yes! Natural food coloring options are available and work just as well if you prefer a more natural approach to adding color.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy and sweetness to your holiday celebrations! These Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) are not just a treat but a delightful way to share love with friends and family. Enjoy making them as much as I do, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations. Happy candy-making!