Welcome, holiday enthusiasts! If you’re searching for a festive, melt-in-your-mouth treat that brings a dash of nostalgia to your Christmas celebrations, you’ve come to the right place. These Soft Christmas Peppermints, also known as Old-Fashioned Butter Mints, are a timeless classic that captures the magic of holiday gatherings. With their smooth peppermint flavor and soft, buttery texture, these mints are perfect for family gatherings or holiday gift baskets. Join me as I take you through the step-by-step process of making these delightful butter mints at home. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for something easy and festive, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Introduction
Ah, the holidays—there’s nothing quite like the familiar aroma of peppermint wafting through the house. For many of us, these Soft Christmas Peppermints evoke memories of festive tables filled with sweets, laughter, and the warmth of family gatherings. These Old-Fashioned Butter Mints have long been a favorite treat during the Christmas season, often found nestled in candy dishes at grandma’s house or shared as part of holiday gift baskets.
With just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe captures the true essence of traditional holiday sweets. The buttery texture combined with a refreshing burst of peppermint makes these mints a crowd-pleaser for all ages. They’re also incredibly easy to make, which is perfect for the busy holiday season. Let’s dive into this classic butter mint recipe and discover why it’s a must-try for your Christmas celebrations!
Ingredients for Soft Christmas Peppermints
To make these delicious Soft Christmas Peppermints, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each one contributes to the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes these mints unforgettable.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp heavy whipping cream
- ¼ tsp peppermint extract (adjust to taste)
- Red gel food coloring (for the classic red and white twist)
Optional Substitutions:
- Vegan butter can be used as a substitute for regular butter if you’re making this for someone with dairy restrictions.
- Replace heavy whipping cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option without compromising texture.
These ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up a batch whenever the holiday spirit strikes. Plus, the red gel food coloring adds that festive flair, perfect for Christmas.
How to Make Soft Christmas Peppermints – Step by Step
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s jump into the detailed process of creating these Soft Christmas Peppermints.
Step 1: Beat the Butter
In a large mixing bowl, begin by beating the softened butter until it’s light and fluffy. The softened butter will ensure your mints have a smooth and creamy texture. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for the best results.
Step 2: Mix in the Remaining Ingredients
Slowly add the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract to the bowl. Continue beating the mixture until it forms a firm, smooth dough. Adjust the amount of peppermint extract depending on how strong you like the mint flavor. Pro tip: Start with a ¼ teaspoon and taste the dough before adding more!
Step 3: Divide and Color
Once the dough is ready, divide it into two parts. Leave ¾ of the dough white and set it aside. Take the remaining ¼ portion and mix in the red gel food coloring. Knead it gently to ensure an even distribution of color.
Step 4: Roll and Twist
On a clean surface, roll out small portions of the white and red dough into ropes. Place a white rope and a red rope side by side, then twist them together to create that classic red-and-white peppermint look. Once twisted, pinch off small sections to form individual mints.
Step 5: Dry and Set
Place the twisted mints on a parchment-lined tray and allow them to air dry for 1-2 hours. Afterward, cut the mints into bite-sized pieces. For the best results, let them dry for 24 hours before serving. This allows them to firm up and develop that perfect butter mint texture.
Helpful Tips for Soft Christmas Peppermints
To achieve the best results for your Old-Fashioned Butter Mints, here are a few helpful tips:
- Taste as you go: If you’re unsure about the peppermint strength, start with a small amount and gradually add more. Peppermint extract can be potent, so a little goes a long way.
- Use gel food coloring: Gel food coloring provides vibrant colors without watering down the dough. This ensures that the mints maintain their shape and consistency.
- Storage tip: Store the mints in an airtight container at room temperature once fully dried. This keeps them fresh and ready for gifting or serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Soft Christmas Peppermints
For the best butter mints, it’s all about technique and patience. Here are a few hacks to elevate your Soft Christmas Peppermints recipe:
- Room Temperature Butter: Ensure that the butter is fully softened before beating. Cold butter will result in a lumpy texture.
- Even Coloring: To avoid streaks in your colored dough, knead the red food coloring thoroughly. Gloves can help prevent staining your hands.
- Let them set: The mints need time to dry properly. Resist the temptation to rush this process. Letting them dry for 24 hours ensures they achieve the perfect texture.
Serving Suggestions for Soft Christmas Peppermints
These festive Old-Fashioned Butter Mints are perfect for holiday gatherings, gift baskets, or simply to enjoy with a warm cup of cocoa. Here are some ideas for serving:
- Holiday Candy Bowls: Place these mints in festive bowls throughout your home for guests to enjoy during holiday get-togethers.
- Gift Packaging: Wrap them in cellophane bags tied with a festive ribbon, and you’ve got a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.
- Christmas Dessert Spread: Pair these mints with other homemade holiday treats, such as cookies, fudge, or fruitcake, to create a beautiful dessert table.
Nutritional Information
While these mints are a holiday indulgence, they’re small enough to enjoy guilt-free! Each mint is a bite-sized piece of sweetness that adds a festive touch to any occasion.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 60
- Total Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 30mg
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugar: 11g
- Protein: 0.1g
Storage and Leftovers for Soft Christmas Peppermints
After you’ve made a batch of these Soft Christmas Peppermints, it’s essential to store them properly to maintain their fresh flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Here’s how:
- Airtight Containers: Store the mints in an airtight container at room temperature. If stored properly, they can last up to two weeks.
- Avoid Refrigeration: These mints don’t need refrigeration and may become too hard if kept in cold storage.
- Make-ahead Tip: These mints can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw them at room temperature before serving.
4 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Soft Christmas Peppermints
1. Can I make these mints in advance?
Yes, you can! These mints actually improve with time as they dry out and firm up. Make them up to two weeks ahead and store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
2. Can I use other flavors besides peppermint?
Absolutely! You can easily swap out the peppermint extract for other flavors such as vanilla, lemon, or almond extract to customize the mints for different tastes.
3. Why do my mints seem too soft?
If your mints are too soft, they may need more time to dry. Allow them to air dry for at least 24 hours, or try refrigerating them for a few minutes to speed up the process.
4. Can I make these mints without food coloring?
Yes! If you prefer to avoid artificial coloring, simply leave out the red gel food coloring. Your mints will be a lovely white color, perfect for a more natural look.
Related Recipes for Soft Christmas Peppermints Lovers
If you loved making these Soft Christmas Peppermints, here are two related recipes to try for your next holiday gathering:
Conclusion
There’s something truly magical about homemade holiday treats, and these Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) are no exception. Their creamy texture, refreshing peppermint taste, and festive appearance make them the perfect addition to your holiday season. Whether you’re making them for family gatherings, gift, combined with a hint of peppermint, creates a confection that is simply irresistible. Plus, they make a charming addition to your holiday decor—think peppermint stripes and candy canes! If you’re a fan of easy-to-make treats that add a personal touch to your celebrations, then you’ll absolutely adore these Christmas Butter Mints. They’re not only delicious but incredibly simple to prepare, making them perfect for both novice and experienced home cooks.
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Soft Christmas Peppermints – Old-Fashioned Butter Mints Recipe
Description
Welcome, holiday enthusiasts! If you’re searching for a festive, melt-in-your-mouth treat that brings a dash of nostalgia to your Christmas celebrations, you’ve come to the right place. These Soft Christmas Peppermints, also known as Old-Fashioned Butter Mints, are a timeless classic that captures the magic of holiday gatherings. With their smooth peppermint flavor and soft, buttery texture, these mints are perfect for family gatherings or holiday gift baskets. Join me as I take you through the step-by-step process of making these delightful butter mints at home. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for something easy and festive, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp heavy whipping cream
- ¼ tsp peppermint extract (adjust to taste)
- Red gel food coloring (for the classic red and white twist)
Optional Substitutions:
- Vegan butter can be used as a substitute for regular butter if you’re making this for someone with dairy restrictions.
- Replace heavy whipping cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free option without compromising texture.
These ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up a batch whenever the holiday spirit strikes. Plus, the red gel food coloring adds that festive flair, perfect for Christmas.
Instructions
Step 1: Beat the Butter
In a large mixing bowl, begin by beating the softened butter until it’s light and fluffy. The softened butter will ensure your mints have a smooth and creamy texture. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for the best results.
Step 2: Mix in the Remaining Ingredients
Slowly add the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract to the bowl. Continue beating the mixture until it forms a firm, smooth dough. Adjust the amount of peppermint extract depending on how strong you like the mint flavor. Pro tip: Start with a ¼ teaspoon and taste the dough before adding more!
Step 3: Divide and Color
Once the dough is ready, divide it into two parts. Leave ¾ of the dough white and set it aside. Take the remaining ¼ portion and mix in the red gel food coloring. Knead it gently to ensure an even distribution of color.
Step 4: Roll and Twist
On a clean surface, roll out small portions of the white and red dough into ropes. Place a white rope and a red rope side by side, then twist them together to create that classic red-and-white peppermint look. Once twisted, pinch off small sections to form individual mints.
Step 5: Dry and Set
Place the twisted mints on a parchment-lined tray and allow them to air dry for 1-2 hours. Afterward, cut the mints into bite-sized pieces. For the best results, let them dry for 24 hours before serving. This allows them to firm up and develop that perfect butter mint texture.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Taste as you go: If you’re unsure about the peppermint strength, start with a small amount and gradually add more. Peppermint extract can be potent, so a little goes a long way.
- Use gel food coloring: Gel food coloring provides vibrant colors without watering down the dough. This ensures that the mints maintain their shape and consistency.
- Storage tip: Store the mints in an airtight container at room temperature once fully dried. This keeps them fresh and ready for gifting or serving.
