Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

If you’re looking for a delightful holiday treat that brings back sweet memories, these Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) are just what you need! I remember making these with my family every year, laughter filling the kitchen as we rolled and shaped the mints together. Their creamy texture and refreshing mint flavor make them a favorite among friends and family, perfect for any festive gathering or cozy night in.

This recipe is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying to make. Whether you’re whipping them up during a busy weeknight or preparing for a family celebration, these mints are sure to bring smiles and cheer. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll understand why they have earned a special place in our holiday traditions!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have these mints ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids love rolling and shaping these mints; it’s a fun activity for everyone.
• Perfect for gifting: Wrap them up in cute packaging for thoughtful homemade gifts.
• Make-ahead convenience: These mints can be made in advance and stored, making your holiday prep a breeze.
• Delicious flavor: The melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with refreshing peppermint will leave everyone wanting more!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) is all about using some simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have at home. Here’s what you’ll need:

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, allowing you to customize the mints to suit your taste! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add chocolate: Mix in some cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist on the classic flavor.
• Change the color: Use different food colorings to create festive patterns or shades that match your holiday theme.
• Infuse different flavors: Swap out the peppermint extract for other extracts like vanilla or almond for unique minty treats.
• Roll in crushed candy canes: For an extra festive touch, roll the mints in crushed candy canes before serving!

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

Step 1: Cream the Butter

Begin by creaming the softened butter in a mixing bowl until it’s nice and fluffy. This step is crucial because it creates an airy base that helps the mints melt beautifully in your mouth.

Step 2: Add Sweetened Condensed Milk

Next, mix in the sweetened condensed milk until well blended. This ingredient adds richness and creaminess that sets these mints apart from others.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing on low speed. It’s important to do this slowly to prevent sugar clouds from forming! Once combined, add the peppermint extract and a pinch of salt for balance.

Step 4: Color Your Mints

If you’re using food coloring, now’s the time to add it! Just a drop or two will do. Mix gently until you reach your desired shade—this makes your mints even more festive!

Step 5: Shape the Mints

Now comes the fun part! Roll small pieces of dough into balls or shapes of your choice. Feel free to get creative here; small squares or little stars work great too!

Step 6: Coat with Sugar

Finally, roll each mint in granulated sugar. This step not only adds sweetness but also gives them a lovely finish that sparkles!

Step 7: Chill and Enjoy

Place your mints on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them chill in the refrigerator for about an hour. This helps firm them up so they hold their shape when served.

Enjoy sharing these Soft Christmas Peppermints with your loved ones—they’re bound to become a cherished favorite just like they are in my home!

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

Making these soft Christmas peppermints is not only fun but also allows for some creativity in the kitchen. Here are a few tips to ensure your mints turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature butter: Starting with softened butter helps create a creamy texture, making it easier to blend the ingredients together smoothly.
• Sift powdered sugar: Sifting the powdered sugar before adding it to the mixture can prevent lumps, ensuring that your mints have a silky consistency.
• Adjust peppermint flavor: Start with 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and taste test. You can always add a little more if you prefer a stronger mint flavor!
• Chill the dough: If your dough feels too sticky to handle, pop it in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes. This makes it easier to shape into mints without making a mess.
• Coat in granulated sugar: Rolling the finished mints in granulated sugar not only adds sweetness but also gives them a lovely finish that prevents sticking.

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

These delightful mints are not just delicious; they also make for beautiful additions to any holiday gathering. Here are some fun and festive ways to serve them!

Garnishes

• Crushed candy canes: Sprinkle some crushed candy canes on top of your mints before they set for a delightful crunch and extra holiday flair.
• Chocolate drizzle: A light drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate over the mints can add a rich contrast to their minty flavor and make them even more irresistible.

Side Dishes

• Hot cocoa: A warm cup of hot cocoa pairs beautifully with these mints, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for holiday gatherings.
• Gingerbread cookies: The spicy sweetness of gingerbread cookies complements the coolness of the mints, making for a delightful contrast in flavors.
• Fruit platter: A colorful assortment of fresh fruits like strawberries, oranges, and apples adds a refreshing touch that balances out the rich flavors of the candy.
• Cheese board: Set out a selection of soft cheeses along with crackers for guests to enjoy alongside the sweet mints. The creamy texture of cheese contrasts nicely with the buttery candies.

Now that you’re armed with tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to get into the kitchen and whip up these charming Soft Christmas Peppermints! They’re sure to become a beloved tradition in your holiday celebrations. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are perfect for meal prep, making them an ideal addition to your holiday baking plans. You can whip them up ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment, ensuring you have plenty on hand for all your festive gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep your mints in an airtight container to maintain their softness.
• Store at room temperature for up to two weeks.
• Avoid placing them in the fridge, as this can alter their texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, arrange the mints in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be kept frozen for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat these mints; they are best enjoyed at room temperature.
• If they become too firm, simply let them sit out for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

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

Can I use other flavors instead of peppermint extract?

Absolutely! While peppermint extract gives these mints their classic taste, you can experiment with other extracts like vanilla or almond for a unique twist.

How should I adjust the recipe if I want to make Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) without food coloring?

You can simply omit the food coloring! The mints will still be deliciously sweet and minty without any added color.

What is the best way to gift Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)?

Consider packaging them in decorative tins or clear bags tied with festive ribbons. They make lovely homemade gifts for friends and family during the holiday season!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Soft Christmas Peppermints! They’re not just candies; they’re little bites of nostalgia that bring warmth and joy to the holiday season. Whether you’re gifting them or savoring them yourself, they’re sure to create sweet memories. Wishing you a wonderful time in the kitchen and a joyous holiday season filled with love and laughter!