Introduction
Celebrate the season with these Soft Christmas Peppermints, also known as Old-Fashioned Butter Mints — a melt-in-your-mouth holiday classic that brings back nostalgic Christmas memories! 💖
Made with butter, sugar, cream, and a hint of peppermint, these pastel candies are perfect for gifting, decorating dessert tables, or enjoying after a holiday meal.
They’re creamy, delicate, and irresistibly smooth — a festive treat you’ll want to make year after year! ❄️✨
Ingredients
For About 40 Mints
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp heavy whipping cream
- ¼ tsp peppermint extract (adjust to taste)
- Red gel food coloring
Tip: Use a high-quality peppermint extract — the flavor really shines through in this simple candy!
Timing ⏰
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Drying Time: 24 hours
- Total Time: ~24 hours 15 minutes
➡️ Quick to make — with a little patience for drying!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Whip the Butter
In a large bowl, whip softened butter using a hand mixer until light and fluffy.
This creates the smooth, creamy base for your mints.
Step 2: Mix in Remaining Ingredients
Gradually add heavy cream, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract.
Beat until the dough becomes firm but pliable — like soft playdough.
If it’s too sticky, add a little more powdered sugar.
Pro Tip: Taste and adjust peppermint extract for your perfect minty strength.
Step 3: Color & Shape the Mints
Divide the dough into two portions:
- ¾ white
- ¼ tinted red using gel food coloring
Roll each portion into long, thin ropes.
Twist one white and one red rope together to create a candy cane swirl.
Cut into small, bite-sized pieces — or pinch into classic mint shapes. 🍬
Step 4: Dry & Set
Place mints on parchment paper and let air dry for 1–2 hours, until the surface feels slightly firm.
Then, allow to dry completely for 24 hours to achieve the perfect soft-yet-smooth texture.
Optional: Dust lightly with powdered sugar to prevent sticking during storage.
Nutritional Information (Per Mint)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~60 kcal |
| Fat | 2.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 9 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
Healthy Tip: These treats are indulgent but portion-controlled — just one or two satisfy your sweet tooth perfectly!
Variations & Ideas 🎁
- Colorful Mints: Use green, pink, or gold coloring for a festive assortment.
- Flavor Twist: Try vanilla, almond, or wintergreen extract for variety.
- Gift Idea: Package them in glass jars or holiday tins with ribbons — perfect for gifting!
- Decoration: Use them as edible décor for cakes, cookies, or peppermint bark.
Storage 🧊
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- Refrigerator: Keeps for 1 month.
- Freezer: Up to 3 months (thaw at room temp before serving).
Tip: Keep mints separated with wax paper layers to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
Creamy, melt-in-your-mouth, and delightfully minty — these Soft Christmas Peppermints are a timeless holiday candy that brings sweetness and nostalgia to your celebrations. 🎅💖
Make a batch to share with family and friends, or keep them on hand for a refreshing, festive bite all season long!
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