Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

If you’re looking for a delightful holiday treat that brings back memories of childhood, then these Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) are just the thing! Picture the joy of sharing creamy, buttery mints with family and friends during festive gatherings. The refreshing mint flavor is sure to bring smiles all around, making them a perfect addition to your holiday celebrations.

This recipe is not only incredibly easy to whip up, but it’s also versatile enough for busy weeknights or cozy family get-togethers. You’ll find that these melt-in-your-mouth mints are a hit no matter the occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes of prep time, perfect for those last-minute holiday treats!
• Family-Friendly Fun: Making these mints can be a fun activity with kids, allowing everyone to join in on the holiday spirit.
• Make Ahead Convenience: These mints can be prepared ahead of time and stored for days, making them perfect for busy schedules.
• Deliciously Customizable: Add a splash of color or experiment with flavors; the possibilities are endless!
• Gifting Perfection: These mints make lovely homemade gifts that show you care.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Soft Christmas Peppermints is straightforward because you’ll need just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Gather the following items to 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

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences or use whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add Some Color: Use different food coloring shades to create a festive rainbow effect!
• Try Different Flavors: Swap out peppermint extract for other flavors like chocolate mint or vanilla for a unique twist.
• Make it Minty Fresh: Toss in crushed candy canes for extra crunch and flavor.
• Go Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and coconut cream instead of sweetened condensed milk for a dairy-free option.

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

Step 1: Cream the Butter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and sweetened condensed milk. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until everything is well-blended and creamy. This step creates a smooth base that allows your mints to melt beautifully in your mouth.

Step 2: Mix in the Sugar

Gradually add in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Mixing slowly will prevent any cloud-like sugar explosion! Once all the sugar is added, continue to beat until fully incorporated. This will give your mints their signature softness.

Step 3: Add Flavor and Color

Now it’s time to infuse your mints with flavor! Stir in the peppermint extract and add a pinch of salt. If you’re feeling festive, mix in your desired amount of red food coloring. This not only enhances flavor but gives your mints that classic holiday look!

Step 4: Shape the Mints

Dust your hands with some granulated sugar to prevent sticking. Take small amounts of the mint mixture and roll them into balls or shape them into flat discs. Place them on parchment paper-lined baking sheets as you go. Remember, this is where you can get creative with shapes!

Step 5: Let Them Set

Once shaped, leave your mints at room temperature for about an hour until they firm up nicely. This step ensures they hold their shape while still being soft enough to enjoy right away.

And there you have it! A delightful way to celebrate the season with Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints). Enjoy sharing these treats with loved ones or savoring them yourself during this magical time of year!

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

Making these delightful mints can be as enjoyable as eating them, and with a few tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use softened butter: Starting with softened butter allows for easier mixing and ensures that your mints have that smooth, creamy texture we all love.

• Sift the powdered sugar: Sifting helps to eliminate lumps in the sugar, resulting in a smoother mint mixture. This step is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth consistency.

• Experiment with flavors: While peppermint is traditional, feel free to mix in other extracts like vanilla or almond for a unique twist on flavor. It can make your mints even more special and personalized!

• Chill before shaping: If your dough feels too soft to shape, pop it in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before rolling. This will make it easier to handle and create nicely shaped mints.

• Coat with granulated sugar: Rolling the shaped mints in granulated sugar not only adds sweetness but also gives a lovely shiny finish. It makes them look extra festive and appealing!

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

These lovely little treats are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some ideas on how you can present them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Sprigs of fresh mint: Adding a small sprig of mint next to each serving elevates the presentation and enhances the minty theme of your dish.
• Festive holiday-themed plates: Serving your mints on a decorative plate adorned with festive designs instantly lifts the holiday spirit at any gathering.

Side Dishes

• Hot cocoa: This classic drink pairs perfectly with your buttery mints, providing a warm and comforting contrast. The rich chocolate flavor beautifully complements the coolness of the peppermint.

• Coffee or tea: A cup of coffee or herbal tea makes for a wonderful pairing, offering guests a soothing beverage option that harmonizes with the sweet flavors of your mints.

• Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses alongside crackers balances out the sweetness of the mints, creating an inviting appetizer spread that guests can enjoy throughout the festivities.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to make your holiday celebrations sweeter than ever! Enjoy sharing these delightful Soft Christmas Peppermints with friends and family this season.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are a fantastic treat to prepare in advance, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting. With a simple recipe that can easily be made ahead, you can enjoy the festive season without the last-minute rush.

Storing Leftovers

• Store your mints in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
• To avoid sticking, you can layer parchment paper between the mints.

Freezing

• Place the mints in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat these mints, as they are best enjoyed at room temperature.
• If they seem too firm after freezing, let them sit out for about 10-15 minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delightful treats, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use different flavors instead of peppermint?

Absolutely! While this recipe features peppermint extract for a classic taste, feel free to experiment with other extracts like vanilla or almond for a unique twist.

How do I make Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) more festive?

You can add colored sugar sprinkles on top before they dry or mix in some crushed candy canes for added texture and flavor!

What if my mints are too sticky?

If your dough is sticky, try adding a little more powdered sugar until the desired consistency is reached. This will help shape your Soft Christmas Peppermints perfectly.

How long do Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) last?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, they will last up to 2 weeks. You can also freeze them for longer storage!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Soft Christmas Peppermints! Their creamy texture and refreshing mint flavor make them a special addition to any holiday celebration. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends and family, these delightful mints are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy cooking, and may your holidays be sweet and bright!