Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) – A Classic Holiday Treat

Introduction

The holiday season is the perfect time for sweet, melt-in-your-mouth treats, and nothing embodies this festive spirit quite like Soft Christmas Peppermints—also known as Old-Fashioned Butter Mints. These delightful little candies are smooth, creamy, and delicately flavored with peppermint, making them an irresistible addition to any holiday spread.

Unlike the harder, store-bought peppermint candies, homemade butter mints have a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a rich, buttery taste that makes them a nostalgic favorite. Whether you’re looking to gift a batch, decorate a holiday dessert table, or simply enjoy a festive treat, this easy, no-bake recipe will help you create the perfect Christmas candy.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making Soft Christmas Peppermints—from essential ingredients and step-by-step instructions to customization ideas, expert tips, and storage options.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – No baking required; just mix, shape, and dry.
• Perfect for the Holidays – A classic Christmas candy that everyone loves.
• Soft, Creamy Texture – Melts in your mouth with every bite.
• Customizable – Easily change flavors and colors to match any occasion.
• Great for Gifting – Packaged in festive tins, they make excellent homemade gifts.

Ingredients for Soft Christmas Peppermints

Main Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (or whole milk)
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• Gel food coloring (red, green, or any festive color)

Optional Additions:

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for extra depth of flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (for a unique twist)
• Crushed peppermint candies (for texture and decoration)
• Edible glitter or sprinkles (for a festive look)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cream the Butter

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
• Add the peppermint extract and salt, then mix well.

Step 2: Add the Sugar and Cream

• Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, while mixing on low speed.
• Pour in the heavy cream slowly, continuing to mix until a smooth dough forms.

Step 3: Divide and Color the Dough

• If you want different colors, divide the dough into separate bowls.
• Add a few drops of gel food coloring to each bowl and knead until the color is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Shape the Mints

• Roll small portions of dough into thin ropes, about 1/2 inch thick.
• Cut into small pillow-like pieces or roll into tiny balls and slightly flatten.

Step 5: Let Them Dry

• Place the mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them air-dry at room temperature for 12-24 hours.
• The longer they dry, the firmer they will become.

Step 6: Store and Enjoy

• Once fully dried, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
• For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 month.

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Customization Ideas

1. Classic Red and Green Christmas Mints

• Use red and green gel food coloring for a festive holiday look.

2. Chocolate Peppermints

• Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolatey twist.

3. Lemon or Orange Butter Mints

• Substitute peppermint extract with lemon or orange extract for a citrus variation.

4. Swirled Mints

• Roll out two different colored doughs, stack them together, then roll into a swirl before cutting.

Tips for the Best Soft Christmas Peppermints

• Use Gel Food Coloring – Liquid food coloring can alter the consistency of the dough.
• Adjust Peppermint Flavor – Add more or less extract based on personal preference.
• Don’t Rush Drying Time – Allow enough time for the mints to fully set for the best texture.
• Keep Hands Lightly Floured – To prevent the dough from becoming too sticky.
• Use a Piping Bag – For a more decorative shape, pipe small rosettes instead of rolling and cutting.

What to Serve with Soft Christmas Peppermints

• Hot Cocoa or Coffee – The perfect accompaniment for a cozy treat.
• Christmas Cookie Platters – Adds variety to your holiday dessert table.
• Holiday Cheesecakes or Cakes – Use as an edible decoration.
• Gift Baskets – Pair with homemade fudge, cookies, and hot chocolate mix.

How to Store and Gift Soft Peppermints

Storing Tips:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 weeks.
• Refrigerate for up to 1 month for longer freshness.
• Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.

Gifting Ideas:

• Package in holiday tins, mason jars, or decorative bags.
• Tie with ribbons and a festive gift tag.
• Combine with homemade cookies, chocolates, or flavored nuts for a complete gift basket.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using Too Much Liquid

• Adding too much cream or extract can make the dough too soft.

2. Not Sifting the Sugar

• Clumps in powdered sugar can create an uneven texture.

3. Rushing the Drying Process

• Letting the mints fully air-dry prevents them from becoming sticky.

4. Overmixing the Dough

• Overworking the dough can make the mints too dense.

FAQs About Soft Christmas Peppermints

1. Can I make these mints without butter?

Yes! Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version.

2. Can I speed up the drying process?

Yes! Place in a cool, dry area with good air circulation to help them dry faster.

3. How can I make these extra minty?

Increase the peppermint extract by 1/4 teaspoon for a stronger flavor.

4. Can I use liquid food coloring?

Gel food coloring is recommended to avoid altering the dough’s consistency.

5. What’s the best way to shape these mints?

Rolling into small ropes and cutting or piping with a star tip works best.

Conclusion

Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) are the perfect homemade holiday treat—easy to make, irresistibly creamy, and full of festive flavor. Whether you’re decorating a dessert table, preparing gifts, or simply indulging in a nostalgic candy, these melt-in-your-mouth mints are a Christmas classic that never goes out of style.

Try this recipe today and bring a touch of old-fashioned holiday charm to your celebrations!

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