Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings a smile to everyone’s face, you’ve come to the right place! These Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) are a delightful blend of creamy butter and refreshing mint that melts in your mouth. Every bite takes me back to cozy holiday gatherings where laughter fills the air and sweet treats abound. They’re not just for Christmas; they bring joy to any occasion, from family get-togethers to busy weeknights when you need a little something special.

This recipe is near and dear to my heart because it’s so simple yet incredibly satisfying. The best part? You can whip them up in no time, making them ideal for gifting or simply indulging yourself!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have these delightful mints ready before you know it!
• Family-Friendly Fun: Kids will love helping out in the kitchen, especially when it comes to rolling the mints in sugar.
• Perfect for Gifting: Package them up in cute jars or bags, and you’ve got a thoughtful gift for neighbors or friends.
• Customizable Colors: Add a splash of red food coloring for an extra festive touch—perfect for holiday celebrations!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have at home. Gather your supplies, and let’s get started!

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Different Extracts: Swap out peppermint extract for vanilla or almond extract for a different flavor profile.
• Make Them Colorful: Instead of just red, use multiple colors of food coloring to create a fun candy cane effect!
• Try Different Shapes: Use cookie cutters to shape your mints into festive designs—stars, trees, or even hearts!
• Coat with Chocolate: For an indulgent twist, dip your mints in melted dairy-free chocolate after they set.

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

Step 1: Cream the Butter

In a mixing bowl, start by creaming together the softened unsalted butter and sweetened condensed milk. This step is crucial because it creates a light and fluffy base for your mints. Using room-temperature butter helps achieve that perfect creamy texture.

Step 2: Incorporate the Sugar

Gradually add in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Mix well after each addition until fully incorporated. This helps prevent any lumps from forming and ensures that your mints turn out super smooth!

Step 3: Add Flavor

Next, stir in the peppermint extract, along with a pinch of salt. The salt balances out the sweetness and enhances the minty flavor. If you’re feeling festive, drop in some red food coloring, mixing until you achieve your desired shade.

Step 4: Form the Mints

Once everything is well mixed, take small portions of dough and roll them into balls about one inch wide. Then roll each ball in granulated sugar—it gives them an extra sparkle and helps prevent sticking.

Step 5: Let Them Set

Place your mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow them to sit at room temperature for about an hour until they harden slightly. This step is essential because it lets the flavors meld together while creating that signature soft texture we all love.

Now that you know how easy it is to make these Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints), I hope you’ll give this recipe a try! Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends and family, these mints are sure to become a cherished holiday tradition.

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

Making these delightful mints is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips under your belt!

• Use room temperature butter: Starting with softened butter ensures that it blends smoothly with the other ingredients, leading to a creamy texture that melts in your mouth.

• Sift the powdered sugar: Sifting helps eliminate lumps and guarantees a silky finish in the candy, making them even more enjoyable to eat.

• Adjust mint flavor to taste: If you’re a mint lover, feel free to add a bit more peppermint extract for an extra burst of flavor. Just keep in mind that a little goes a long way!

• Chill before shaping: If the mixture feels too soft to mold, pop it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This will make it easier to handle and shape into perfect little mints.

• Coat with granulated sugar: Rolling the mints in granulated sugar not only adds sweetness but also gives them a lovely sparkle and prevents sticking—making them easy to store and gift!

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

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are not just delicious; they also make for delightful decorations during the holiday season. Here are some creative ways to serve them!

Garnishes

• Sprigs of fresh mint: A small sprig placed alongside your mints adds a vibrant touch and enhances the peppermint theme.
• Candy canes: Crushed candy canes sprinkled on top or served alongside can give an added crunch and festive flair.

Side Dishes

• Hot chocolate: Rich and creamy hot chocolate pairs perfectly with these mints, providing warmth on chilly winter evenings.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements the refreshing mint flavor, making it an excellent after-dinner treat.
• Fruit platter: A colorful assortment of fruits can balance out the sweetness of the mints, offering a fresh contrast.
• Cheese platter: Mild cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese create an interesting pairing with the sweetness of the butter mints, enhancing their flavor profile.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Soft Christmas Peppermints are sure to shine at any holiday gathering! Enjoy creating sweet memories this festive season.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep. You can make them ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the holidays without the last-minute rush. Here’s how to store them properly to keep them fresh and tasty!

Storing Leftovers

• Place mints in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Keep them at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.
• They can be stored for up to two weeks.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze mints in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating

• No reheating is needed! Simply take mints out of the fridge or freezer and let them come to room temperature before enjoying.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might pop up while making your Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints).

Can I use different flavors instead of peppermint?

Absolutely! You can substitute peppermint extract with other extracts like vanilla or almond for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change significantly.

How do I make my Soft Christmas Peppermints more festive?

Consider adding festive sprinkles on top after shaping your mints or using food coloring to create marbled effects. This adds an extra touch of holiday cheer!

What if my mints are too sticky?

If your mixture is too sticky, gradually add more powdered sugar until it reaches a moldable consistency. This will help you shape them easily.

Can I make these Soft Christmas Peppermints in advance?

Yes! They are perfect for making ahead of time. Just follow the storage instructions above to keep them fresh.

How long do these mints last?

When stored properly, your Soft Christmas Peppermints can last up to two weeks at room temperature or even longer if frozen.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to make these Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)! They truly capture the essence of the holiday season with their creamy texture and refreshing mint flavor. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment yourself, they’re sure to bring joy. Enjoy every step of the process, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your flavors and decorations. Happy Holidays!