Soft Christmas Peppermints: An Old-Fashioned Delight for the Holidays

Embrace the festive spirit with our Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) recipe. These creamy and minty treats are perfect for holiday gatherings, bringing a touch of nostalgia to your Christmas celebrations.

Recipe Overview

• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Category: Dessert
• Cuisine: American
• Cost: $

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are a breeze to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal effort. The perfect balance of sweetness and peppermint flavor makes them a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, they add a touch of homemade charm to your holiday dessert spread.

These butter mints are not just for Christmas; their delightful texture and flavor make for a wonderful treat at any celebration. Whether you’re making them for a party or as a gift, they’re sure to be appreciated by all.

Context/Background

Old-Fashioned Butter Mints have been gracing dessert tables for generations, often made for weddings, baby showers, and holidays. Their origins trace back to early American candy making, where simplicity met elegance. These homemade mints are a testament to the joys of creating something from scratch, evoking fond memories of past celebrations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t rush the drying process; ensure they dry thoroughly for at least 12 hours for the best texture.
• Avoid using too much peppermint extract, which can overpower the sweetness and make the flavor too strong.
• Keep your sugar properly sifted to prevent clumps in the mixture.

Tips for Perfect Soft Christmas Peppermints

• Use room-temperature butter for an even, creamy mixture.
• Sift your powdered sugar to ensure a smooth, lump-free dough.
• Experiment with food coloring to create festive holiday mints.
• Adjust the peppermint extract according to taste for the perfect flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

• Try adding vanilla extract for a different flavor profile.
• Use different food coloring to match occasions beyond Christmas.
• For a dairy-free version, consider using a plant-based butter and cream alternative.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these mints in decorative bowls at your holiday dessert table or package them in small gift boxes for a sweet homemade present. They pair beautifully with a hot cup of cocoa or coffee, enhancing the cozy feel of a winter celebration.

Storage and Leftovers

Store your butter mints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. They do not need refrigeration and make for a perfect treat to enjoy at any time.

Make Ahead Instructions

These mints can be made well in advance of your event. Prepare them up to a week ahead, allowing them to dry completely, and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 48
• Protein: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 7g

Dietary Notes

• Vegetarian
• Gluten-Free

The Recipe

Serves: 40

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 0 mins

Total Time: 15 mins

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Sifter
• Sharp knife

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• Food coloring (optional)

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the heavy cream, mixing until smooth after each addition.
3. Stir in the peppermint extract until well incorporated.
4. Divide the mixture into sections, and add food coloring to each, if desired.
5. Roll each section into a long rope, about 1/2-inch thick.
6. Cut the ropes into small pieces, about 1/2-inch each.
7. Let dry at room temperature for 12 hours or overnight before serving.

Recipe Notes

• Adjust the amount of peppermint extract to your liking.
• The drying step is crucial for achieving the right texture.
• Experiment with different shapes for festive occasions.

Community Tips and Photos

Share your experience with this recipe! Tag us using #SoftChristmasPeppermints on social media.

Questions and Answers

• Can I make these mints without a mixer? Yes, you can mix by hand, but a mixer will ensure a smoother consistency.
• How long do they stay fresh? When stored properly, they remain fresh for two weeks.
• Can I freeze these mints? Freezing is not recommended, as it might alter the texture upon thawing.