Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the spirit of the holidays, then these Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) are just what you need! These little gems melt in your mouth and have a creamy, buttery base with a refreshing mint flavor. Making them is not only simple but also a wonderful way to bring family and friends together during this magical season. Whether you’re preparing for a festive gathering or just want a sweet treat to enjoy while cozied up at home, these mints are perfect for any occasion.

What makes this recipe extra special is the nostalgia it brings. I remember making these mints with my family every holiday season. The kitchen was filled with laughter, and the air was sweet with peppermint goodness. It’s a tradition that warms my heart, and I know it will become a cherished memory for you too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious mints ready to share.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids love rolling and coating these mints in sugar—it’s a fun project for everyone!
• Perfect for gifting: Package them up in cute boxes or bags for thoughtful homemade gifts.
• Make ahead convenience: These mints store well, so you can prepare them in advance for holiday parties.
• Delicious flavor: The creamy buttery texture combined with refreshing mint makes every bite irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for these Soft Christmas Peppermints are simple and wholesome. They come together quickly to create a delightful treat that’s sure to be a hit!

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it to suit different tastes or occasions.

• Add chocolate: Mix in some mini chocolate chips for an extra indulgent twist.
• Try different extracts: Substitute peppermint extract with vanilla or almond extract for unique flavors.
• Make them festive: Use green food coloring instead of red, or create swirls by mixing both colors!
• Shape them differently: Instead of traditional mints, press the mixture into molds or cut them into fun shapes.

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

Step 1: Cream the Butter

Start by creaming together the unsalted butter and sweetened condensed milk. Use an electric mixer until everything is smooth and well combined. This step is crucial because it creates the creamy texture that will make your mints melt in your mouth!

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients

Next, gradually add in the powdered sugar, along with the peppermint extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is fully incorporated. Don’t rush this part; letting each ingredient blend well ensures that your mints have that perfect flavor balance.

Step 3: Color Your Mints

If you want to add some festive flair, now’s the time to introduce your red food coloring. Add it slowly until you reach your desired shade. This not only makes your mints look beautiful but also adds an extra touch of holiday cheer!

Step 4: Shape Your Mints

Once your mixture is ready, dust your hands lightly with powdered sugar and roll small amounts into balls—about one inch in size works great! Place them on parchment paper for easy cleanup later. Don’t worry about making them perfect; they’ll taste amazing no matter their shape!

Step 5: Coat Your Mints

After shaping all your mints, roll each one in granulated sugar. This step gives them that lovely crunch on the outside while keeping their soft center intact—a delightful contrast!

Step 6: Chill and Enjoy

Finally, place your tray of mints in the refrigerator for about an hour until they firm up slightly. Once chilled, they’re ready to be enjoyed! Serve them at gatherings or gift them to friends; either way, they’re bound to bring smiles all around.

Enjoy making these Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) this holiday season! They truly are a special treat that brings joy to any celebration!

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

Making these delightful mints can be a joy, and with a few helpful tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature butter: Starting with softened butter allows for easier mixing with other ingredients, resulting in a smoother texture for your mints.

• Sift powdered sugar: Sifting helps to break up any lumps in the powdered sugar, ensuring your mixture is silky and free of graininess, which is key for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.

• Adjust peppermint flavor to taste: If you love mint, feel free to add a bit more peppermint extract. Just remember to taste as you go; the goal is a refreshing flavor without being overwhelming!

• Chill before rolling: After mixing the ingredients, chilling the dough for about 15-20 minutes makes it easier to handle and shape into perfect little mints.

• Experiment with colors: While red food coloring gives a classic look, don’t hesitate to experiment with other colors or even swirl them together for a festive twist!

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

These delectable mints can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance their charm and presentation during your holiday gatherings.

Garnishes

• Chocolate drizzles: A light drizzle of melted dark or white chocolate can add an elegant touch and contrast beautifully with the creamy mints.

• Crushed candy canes: Sprinkling crushed candy canes on top not only adds a festive flair but also boosts the minty flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of hot chocolate provides the perfect cozy pairing for your soft mints. The rich chocolate complements the refreshing mint flavor beautifully.

• Coffee or Tea: A steaming cup of coffee or tea offers a comforting balance to the sweetness of the mints, making it an ideal combination for holiday gatherings.

• Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits like strawberries or orange slices provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, buttery mints, adding both color and nutrition to your dessert spread.

• Cheese Board: A selection of mild cheeses can create an interesting flavor combination. The creaminess of cheese plays well against the sweet mints for those adventurous enough to try it!

Enjoy creating these memories with your Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints), and make sure to share them with friends and family. Happy holidays!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a batch ahead of time and keep the festive spirit alive. Here’s how to store them properly so you can enjoy their delightful flavor throughout the holiday season.

Storing Leftovers

• Place the mints in an airtight container.
• Keep the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Consume within two weeks for best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• Lay the mints out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Freeze them for about an hour until firm.
• Transfer the frozen mints to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating

• These mints are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature.
• Simply take them out of the fridge or freezer and let them sit for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might arise while making your Soft Christmas Peppermints.

Can I use other flavors instead of peppermint extract?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other extracts like wintergreen or spearmint for a unique twist on these old-fashioned butter mints.

How do I make Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) without food coloring?

You can easily omit the red food coloring if you prefer natural-looking mints. They will still taste delicious without it!

How long do these mints last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your Soft Christmas Peppermints will stay fresh for up to two weeks, making them perfect for holiday gifting.

Final Thoughts

These Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) truly embody the warmth of the holiday season. Their creamy texture and refreshing mint flavor are sure to bring joy to anyone who tries them. I hope you enjoy making this delightful treat as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your creations and happy holidays!