Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

If you’re looking for a delightful holiday treat that brings back sweet memories, then these Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) are just what you need! They have a creamy, buttery base and a refreshing mint flavor that melts in your mouth, making them perfect for any festive occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, looking for a sweet gift idea, or simply treating yourself during the busy holiday season, these mints will certainly add a touch of joy to your celebrations.

I love this recipe because it’s so easy to whip up and always impresses friends and family. Once you taste them, you’ll understand why they’ve become a cherished tradition in my home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can create these delightful mints in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids will love helping out in the kitchen as they roll the mints and coat them in sugar.
• Make ahead: These mints can be made in advance and stored for later, making holiday prep a breeze.
• Customizable colors: Add some festive flair by using food coloring to match your holiday theme!
• Perfect for gifting: Pack them in cute jars or boxes for thoughtful homemade gifts that everyone will appreciate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have at home. Gather these goodies, and let’s start creating some delicious memories!

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 how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and coatings. Here are some tasty variations to try:

• Add chocolate: Mix in some cocoa powder or dip the finished mints in melted chocolate for an indulgent twist.
• Try different extracts: Substitute peppermint extract with vanilla or almond for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it festive: Use green food coloring instead of red or create swirled colors by mixing both!
• Coat with crushed candy canes: For an extra crunch and holiday spirit, roll the mints in crushed candy canes instead of granulated sugar.

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

Step 1: Cream the Butter

Start by creaming the unsalted butter until it’s nice and fluffy. This step is important because it creates a light texture that helps the mints melt beautifully in your mouth.

Step 2: Mix in Sweetened Condensed Milk

Next, add the sweetened condensed milk. This ingredient gives your mints that rich creaminess that sets them apart from regular candies. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 3: Incorporate Sugar and Flavoring

Now it’s time to add the powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and a pinch of salt. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until everything is well blended. The salt balances out the sweetness and enhances the minty flavor!

Step 4: Add Color

If you’re feeling festive, now’s the time to incorporate some color! Add a few drops of red food coloring, mixing until you reach your desired shade. Remember, this step is optional but can really brighten up your treats!

Step 5: Shape the Mints

Once your mixture is ready, dust your hands with granulated sugar and roll small amounts into balls. Place them on parchment paper lined trays. This step not only shapes the mints but also helps prevent sticking.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Finally, refrigerate your shaped mints for about an hour to firm them up. After chilling, they’ll be ready to enjoy! Serve them at gatherings or pack them up as gifts—either way, smiles are guaranteed!

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

Making these delightful mints is a breeze with a few handy tips to ensure perfect results every time!

• Use room temperature butter: This helps the butter blend smoothly with the other ingredients, creating that creamy texture that makes these mints melt in your mouth.

• Sift the powdered sugar: Sifting removes lumps and ensures a smoother consistency, making your mints even more delightful to eat.

• Adjust mint flavor to taste: Start with the recommended amount of peppermint extract and add more if you desire a stronger mint flavor. This allows you to customize the mints to your liking!

• Chill before rolling: If the mixture is too soft to handle, refrigerate it for about 15 minutes. A cooler dough is easier to roll into perfect little balls.

• Coat in granulated sugar: Rolling the finished mints in granulated sugar not only prevents them from sticking together but also adds a lovely sparkle that enhances their festive appearance.

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

These Soft Christmas Peppermints make for an enchanting addition to any holiday gathering. Present them on a beautiful platter or package them in decorative boxes for a heartfelt gift!

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs can add a pop of color and enhance the minty aroma.
• Crushed candy canes: Sprinkle some crushed candy canes on top for an extra crunchy minty touch that looks festive and inviting.

Side Dishes

• Hot cocoa: The rich, chocolatey flavor of hot cocoa pairs perfectly with the refreshing taste of these mints, making for a cozy treat.
• Gingerbread cookies: These spiced cookies complement the coolness of peppermint beautifully, adding warmth and nostalgia to your holiday spread.
• Fruit platter: Fresh fruits like strawberries and oranges can balance out the sweetness of the mints while adding vibrant colors to your table.
• Cheese board: Consider including some mild cheeses like brie or gouda, which provide a creamy contrast to the bright flavors of your buttery mints.

With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress friends and family during this festive season! Enjoy creating lasting memories over these delightful treats.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are not just a delightful treat; they’re also perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the festive season without any last-minute stress.

Storing Leftovers

• Store your mints in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Ensure they are coated in granulated sugar to prevent sticking.
• They should stay fresh for up to two weeks.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the mints in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating

• These mints are best enjoyed at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat them.
• If they become slightly sticky after being in the fridge or freezer, simply roll them in a bit more granulated sugar before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints).

Can I use different flavors instead of peppermint?

Yes! You can substitute peppermint extract with other extracts like vanilla or almond for a unique twist on these mints. Just ensure that whatever extract you choose pairs well with the sweetness of the mints.

How do I achieve a stronger mint flavor in my Soft Christmas Peppermints?

To intensify the mint flavor, you can increase the amount of peppermint extract slightly. Start with an additional 1/4 teaspoon and adjust to your taste preference!

Can these Soft Christmas Peppermints be made vegan?

Absolutely! You can replace the unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream instead of sweetened condensed milk for delicious vegan-friendly mints.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) as much as I do! They bring warmth and joy to any holiday gathering and are a fantastic way to share sweet memories with loved ones. Enjoy every moment spent creating this delightful treat, and don’t forget to gift some to friends and family – they’ll appreciate the thoughtfulness of your homemade goodies. Happy holidays!