Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe

Introduction

These Perfect Soft Christmas Peppermints are a delightful holiday treat made with just three simple ingredients. They are wonderfully easy to prepare, requiring no baking, and result in a melt-in-your-mouth candy that’s perfect for gifting or enjoying by the fireside. Their refreshing peppermint flavor and soft texture make them a festive favorite for all ages.

Ingredients

These soft, melt-in-your-mouth peppermints combine creamy butter, sweet powdered sugar, and refreshing peppermint for a festive holiday treat.

• ½ cup butter, room temperature
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract (more or less to taste)
• red gel food coloring

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	0 minutes
Total Time	15 minutes

Context: These Soft Christmas Peppermints are ready in about 20% less time than similar no-bake recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients and Equipment

Gather 3 cups powdered sugar, 1/4 cup softened butter, 3 tablespoons milk, 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract, and optional red food coloring. You’ll also need wax paper, a mixing bowl, and an electric mixer.

Tip: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature (about 68°F) for easier blending and smoother Soft Christmas Peppermints.

Step 2 — Combine the Base Ingredients

In your mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with 1 cup of powdered sugar until creamy. Gradually add the remaining powdered sugar, milk, and peppermint extract, mixing until a thick dough forms.

If the mixture feels too sticky, add a tablespoon more powdered sugar. For perfect consistency, the dough should be pliable but not stick to your fingers.

Step 3 — Divide and Color the Dough

Separate the dough into two equal portions. Leave one portion plain white, and knead a few drops of red food coloring into the other portion until evenly tinted.

For vibrant stripes, knead just until the color is marbled rather than fully uniform. This creates a festive look in your Soft Christmas Peppermints.

Step 4 — Shape the Candy Logs

Roll each portion of dough into a long rope about 1/2-inch thick. Place the white and red ropes side by side, then gently twist them together to create a spiral pattern.

If the dough becomes too soft, chill it for 10 minutes in the refrigerator. This makes twisting easier and helps maintain defined stripes.

Step 5 — Slice into Individual Candies

Using a sharp knife, slice the twisted rope into 1/2-inch pieces. Work quickly but carefully to maintain the spiral design in each Soft Christmas Peppermint.

For uniform pieces, periodically rotate the rope while slicing. Wipe your knife blade clean between cuts for neater edges.

Step 6 — Set the Candies

Arrange the sliced candies in a single layer on wax paper-lined baking sheets. Let them sit at room temperature for 2-3 hours until firm to the touch.

In humid environments, allow extra setting time. The Soft Christmas Peppermints are ready when they hold their shape but still yield slightly to pressure.

Step 7 — Store Properly

Once set, transfer your Soft Christmas Peppermints to an airtight container with wax paper between layers. They keep best at cool room temperature (below 70°F).

For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 3 weeks. Bring to room temperature before serving for the ideal soft texture.

Nutritional Information

Calories	25
Protein	0g
Carbohydrates	6g
Fat	0g
Fiber	0g
Sodium	5mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Collagen peptides — Adds protein while maintaining smooth texture; neutral flavor won’t overpower peppermint
• Erythritol or monk fruit sweetener — Lower-carb option that still provides the crystalline texture of traditional Soft Christmas Peppermints
• Coconut oil — Dairy-free alternative to butter that helps create the signature soft texture
• Almond or oat flour — Gluten-free options that work well in peppermint candy recipes
• Sea salt flakes — Lower-sodium topping option that provides visual appeal and subtle flavor contrast
• Avocado oil — Neutral-flavored oil that creates tender Soft Christmas Peppermints without dairy
• Plant-based protein powder — Boosts nutrition while complementing the minty flavor profile

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these Soft Christmas Peppermints with a warm cup of hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy holiday treat.
• Serve as a festive after-dinner mint alongside rich desserts like chocolate fudge or yule log.
• Offer them at holiday cookie exchanges or as edible party favors in decorative cellophane bags.
• Arrange on a tiered dessert stand with other holiday sweets for an eye-catching candy display.
• Place a small bowl of Soft Christmas Peppermints near the entryway to welcome guests with a refreshing treat.
• Include in holiday gift baskets with homemade baked goods for a personalized touch.

For an elegant presentation, arrange these Soft Christmas Peppermints on a white platter with sprigs of fresh mint or edible glitter for a festive sparkle.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using too much powdered sugar, making the dough crumbly. Fix: Add condensed milk gradually until the mixture is pliable but not sticky.
• Mistake: Over-kneading the dough, which makes the candies tough. Fix: Mix just until combined to maintain that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Mistake: Skipping the corn syrup, leading to a grainy texture. Fix: Include a small amount to prevent sugar crystallization for smooth Soft Christmas Peppermints.
• Mistake: Not letting the dough rest, causing cracking when shaping. Fix: Wrap and chill for 30 minutes to make rolling easier.
• Mistake: Using liquid food coloring that alters consistency. Fix: Opt for gel or paste colors to add vibrant hues without adding extra moisture.
• Mistake: Storing in an airtight container immediately, creating condensation. Fix: Let candies dry completely on a rack before sealing to avoid stickiness.
• Mistake: Measuring peppermint extract inaccurately, resulting in an overpowering or weak flavor. Fix: Use a precise measuring spoon—start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to taste.
• Mistake: Rolling dough too thick, so candies don’t set properly. Fix: Aim for 1/4-inch thickness for the perfect bite-sized treat.
• Mistake: Using old powdered sugar that may contain lumps. Fix: Sift the sugar beforehand to ensure your Soft Christmas Peppermints are perfectly smooth.
• Mistake: Rushing the drying process by placing candies in a warm area. Fix: Dry at cool room temperature for several hours to set correctly without melting.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store Soft Christmas Peppermints in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
• Freezer: Place Soft Christmas Peppermints in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm refrigerated or frozen Soft Christmas Peppermints at room temperature for 15-30 minutes before serving.

Always ensure Soft Christmas Peppermints reach room temperature (above 40°F/4°C) before consumption to maintain food safety and optimal texture.

Conclusion

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are a delightful, old-fashioned holiday treat that’s simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to leave a comment with your results or subscribe for more festive recipes!

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FAQs

How do I store Soft Christmas Peppermints to keep them soft?

Store your Soft Christmas Peppermints in an airtight container at room temperature. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. This method keeps them fresh and soft for weeks.

Can I use peppermint extract instead of oil for Soft Christmas Peppermints?

Yes, you can substitute peppermint extract, but use three times the amount since extract is less potent than oil. This ensures your Soft Christmas Peppermints have a strong, festive mint flavor.

Why are my Soft Christmas Peppermints too sticky?

Sticky mints are often due to high humidity or insufficient powdered sugar during rolling. Dust your hands and work surface generously with powdered sugar. Let the finished Soft Christmas Peppermints air-dry slightly before storing.