If you’re dreaming of a classic holiday treat that brings back those warm, nostalgic Christmas memories, look no further than this Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) Recipe. These delights are the perfect balance of creamy butter, refreshing peppermint, and a melt-in-your-mouth softness that feels like a cozy hug in every bite. Whether you want to relive a cherished tradition or find a new favorite candy to share with loved ones, this recipe will make your kitchen smell like Christmas morning and your heart a little lighter.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to give you that iconic smooth texture and delightful peppermint flavor that melts softly on the tongue. From the richness of butter to the coolness of peppermint extract, every element plays a vital role.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides the creamy base and richness essential for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweet flavors and balances the richness of the butter perfectly.
- 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the mints and creates the right consistency for easy shaping.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Adds moisture and softness, making these mints delightfully smooth inside.
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: Delivers that classic cooling peppermint flavor that defines these old-fashioned candies.
- Red and green gel food coloring (optional): Adds festive holiday colors to brighten up your candies while keeping the flavor pure.
- Powdered sugar for dusting: Prevents sticking and helps with rolling out the dough.
How to Make Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Salt
Begin by beating the softened unsalted butter with the salt in a large mixing bowl until it’s perfectly smooth and creamy. This step is crucial because it ensures a velvety foundation for your mints, helping the sugar blend in evenly and giving you that classic butter mint texture.
Step 2: Alternate Adding Powdered Sugar and Heavy Cream
Add the powdered sugar one cup at a time, alternating with the heavy cream as you mix. This back-and-forth technique creates a thick, pliable dough that’s soft yet holds its shape nicely. Take your time here to avoid lumps and to get the perfect dough consistency for rolling.
Step 3: Mix in the Peppermint Extract
Stir in the peppermint extract until it’s evenly combined throughout the dough. This is when your kitchen starts smelling like a holiday wonderland, and you know you’re on the right track to creating those beloved peppermints.
Step 4: Divide and Color the Dough
If you opt for the colorful Christmas vibe, divide the dough into two or three portions and knead in a few drops of red or green gel food coloring in each. Kneading will distribute the color evenly without causing any sticky mess, giving your mints festive stripes or solid hues depending on rolling and cutting.
Step 5: Roll and Cut the Mints
Lightly dust your work surface with powdered sugar, then roll each colored portion into long ropes about half an inch thick. Use a sharp knife or dough cutter to slice the ropes into bite-sized pieces, perfect for savoring or sharing with friends and family. These little pieces are already looking festive and inviting!
Step 6: Let Them Air Dry
Arrange your cut mints on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them air dry at room temperature for at least 12 hours. This drying time lets the mints become firm on the outside while remaining soft in the center, achieving the signature texture that makes this Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) Recipe so special.
How to Serve Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) Recipe
Garnishes
Simple and elegant garnishes can elevate your presentation. Sprinkle a little extra powdered sugar on top or wrap each mint in festive cellophane to make them look like sparkling jewels. A tiny sprinkle of crushed candy canes can also add a crunchy contrast while enhancing the peppermint flavor.
Side Dishes
While these mints shine brightly on their own, they pair incredibly well with holiday tea, coffee, or rich hot chocolate. Serving them alongside a platter of cookies or a cheese board can create a well-rounded holiday dessert table that’s sure to impress your guests.
Creative Ways to Present
Package your Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) Recipe in vintage-style tins, mason jars adorned with ribbons, or clear cellophane bags tied with holiday twine. These thoughtful presentations make fantastic homemade gifts that carry the warmth and charm only a handcrafted treat can offer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These mints stay delicious for several weeks when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep them away from heat or humidity to preserve their soft texture and prevent stickiness. Layer them between pieces of parchment paper to avoid clumping.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for these butter mints, as it can affect their delicate texture and softness once thawed. It’s best to enjoy them fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.
Reheating
Because these are no-bake, soft mints, reheating is not necessary or advised. They’re best enjoyed at room temperature, where their creamy texture and peppermint flavor shine the brightest.
FAQs
Can I omit the food coloring in this recipe?
Absolutely! The Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) Recipe tastes just as wonderful in its classic white form, which channels the old-fashioned charm perfectly. Food coloring is merely to add festive flair.
How long do the mints take to firm up properly?
They need about 12 hours at room temperature to dry and develop that perfect outer firmness while staying soft inside. Patience here truly rewards you with the ideal texture.
Can I use flavor extracts other than peppermint?
Yes! While peppermint is traditional, you can experiment with vanilla, almond, or even lemon extract for different but equally delightful flavors, making this recipe versatile for any occasion.
Are these mints suitable for vegetarians?
Definitely. The ingredients are simple and vegetarian-friendly, with no animal products besides dairy. They’re a lovely sweet treat for anyone keeping a vegetarian diet during the holidays.
What’s the best way to cut the mints neatly?
Using a sharp knife or a dough cutter on a powdered sugar-dusted surface helps you slice cleanly without sticking. Cutting in smooth, confident motions will give you nicely shaped pieces every time.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about homemade Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) Recipe—the way they melt in your mouth, fill the air with crisp peppermint scents, and bring a smile with every bite. Whether you’re gifting them, serving at a party, or indulging by the fire, this recipe is a delightful holiday classic worth trying. So grab your ingredients, get rolling, and let these charming candies become a new family favorite!
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Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 12 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: About 100 mints
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft Christmas Peppermints, also known as Old-Fashioned Butter Mints, are a nostalgic holiday treat made from creamy butter, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract. These soft, melt-in-your-mouth candies can be tinted with festive colors and make perfect gifts or additions to your holiday dessert table.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Flavor and Decoration
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Red and green gel food coloring (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Beat Butter and Salt: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and salt together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring an even base for your mints.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Cream: Gradually add the powdered sugar, approximately one cup at a time, alternating with the heavy cream. Mix continuously until a thick, pliable dough forms, perfect for shaping.
- Incorporate Peppermint Extract: Stir in the peppermint extract thoroughly to evenly distribute the flavor throughout the dough.
- Color the Dough: Divide the dough into two or three portions. Add a small amount of your chosen food coloring to each portion if desired, then knead each section until the color is fully blended.
- Shape the Mints: Lightly dust a clean surface with powdered sugar. Roll each colored dough portion into long ropes about 1/2 inch thick, providing the classic peppermint stick form.
- Cut into Pieces: Use a sharp knife or dough cutter to slice the ropes into small, bite-sized pieces suitable for a delicious candy bite.
- Dry the Mints: Place all cut pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Let them air dry at room temperature for at least 12 hours until they develop a firm exterior while remaining soft inside.
- Store Properly: Once dried, store your mints in an airtight container to maintain freshness and softness.
Notes
- For a traditional look, skip food coloring and enjoy natural white mints.
- Use red and green gel colors to create festive holiday-themed candies.
- These mints make wonderful homemade gifts when packaged in decorative tins or jars.
- Allow enough drying time for the mints to develop the perfect texture.
