Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

If you’re looking for a delightful way to celebrate the holidays, these Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) are just what you need! This recipe takes me back to my childhood, filled with cozy gatherings and sweet treats that melt in your mouth. There’s something special about these mints; they not only offer a burst of refreshing mint flavor but also carry a creamy texture that warms the heart. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you want to create a little holiday magic or family gatherings where sharing is essential.

These mints are easy to whip up and make great gifts for friends and loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply indulging in a quiet night at home, these Soft Christmas Peppermints will surely bring smiles all around!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious mints ready to chill.
• Family-friendly fun: Kids and adults alike love rolling and coating these mints—it’s a fun activity for everyone!
• Perfect for gifting: Wrap them up in pretty boxes or bags for thoughtful holiday gifts that will be cherished.
• Make-ahead convenience: These mints can be made ahead of time, making your holiday planning so much easier.
• Deliciously nostalgic: The creamy, buttery flavor combined with refreshing mint is sure to bring back lovely memories.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we 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

One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily tweak it to suit your taste preferences or to add a little flair.

• Add some color: Use different colors of food coloring to create a rainbow effect or festive stripes.
• Try other flavors: Swap out the peppermint extract for other flavors like chocolate mint or vanilla for a unique twist.
• Coat differently: Instead of granulated sugar, try rolling the mints in crushed candy canes for extra crunch and flavor.
• Make them mini: Form smaller balls for bite-sized treats that are perfect for snacking!

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

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Milk

Start by creaming together the softened unsalted butter and sweetened condensed milk. This step creates a smooth base that helps the powdered sugar blend in easily. Mixing them well ensures that every bite is uniformly creamy.

Step 2: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Next, gradually add in the powdered sugar, along with peppermint extract, and a pinch of salt. It’s important to mix thoroughly until everything is well combined. This will give your mints their signature melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 3: Color Your Mixture

If you’re using red food coloring, now’s the time! Add just a few drops into your mixture and stir until you achieve your desired shade. This not only makes them look festive but also adds an extra layer of excitement.

Step 4: Chill the Mixture

Once mixed, cover your bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for about an hour. Chilling helps firm up the dough, making it easier to shape into delightful little mints.

Step 5: Shape and Coat

After chilling, take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into balls. Then roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat them lightly. This adds a lovely sweetness and helps prevent sticking.

Step 6: Let Them Set

Finally, place your coated mints on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow them to set at room temperature or return them to the fridge if you prefer firmer mints. Once set, they’re ready to be enjoyed or gifted!

Now you’ve got your very own batch of Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)! Enjoy sharing these delightful treats during this wonderful season!

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

Making these delightful mints is a breeze, and with a few insider tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature butter: Softened butter blends more easily with the other ingredients, resulting in a smoother texture that melts beautifully in your mouth.

• Sift powdered sugar: Sifting helps eliminate lumps and ensures your mints are silky smooth. This little step can make a big difference in the final product!

• Chill before shaping: After mixing, let the dough chill for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle and shape without sticking to your hands.

• Experiment with colors: If you’re feeling festive, add a few drops of red food coloring to create swirled mints. It adds a cheerful touch that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.

• Coat generously in granulated sugar: Rolling the mints in sugar not only adds sweetness but also gives them a lovely crunch that contrasts nicely with their soft center.

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

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are not just delicious; they’re also visually appealing and can be presented in various delightful ways. Here are some ideas to showcase your homemade treats!

Garnishes

• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of fresh mint adds a pop of color and enhances the minty flavor of your candies.
• Mini candy canes: Placing mini candy canes alongside your mints can create an adorable and festive display that’s perfect for the holiday season.

Side Dishes

• Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of rich hot cocoa pairs wonderfully with these mints, as the chocolatey goodness complements the refreshing peppermint flavor.
• Spiced Tea: A fragrant spiced tea brings warmth and nostalgia to your holiday table, making it the perfect companion for your buttery mints.
• Sugar Cookies: Soft, buttery sugar cookies provide a sweet balance to the coolness of peppermint, creating an enjoyable mix of flavors.
• Cheese Platter: For something savory alongside your sweets, a cheese platter featuring creamy cheeses works surprisingly well with these mints, offering a delightful contrast between sweet and savory.

Now that you have all the tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to whip up a batch of these nostalgic Soft Christmas Peppermints! Enjoy sharing them with loved ones or savoring them yourself during this special season.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to get a head start on your holiday treats. They can be made in advance and stored for later enjoyment, making them an ideal option for busy holiday schedules.

Storing Leftovers

• After the mints have set, store them in an airtight container.
• Keep the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• The mints will stay fresh for about 2-3 weeks.

Freezing

• If you’d like to keep the mints longer, freeze them for up to 3 months.
• Place the mints in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen mints to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper.

Reheating

• These mints do not require reheating, as they are enjoyed straight from storage.
• If they become too firm after freezing, let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delightful Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints).

Can I use a different flavor instead of peppermint?

Absolutely! While peppermint is classic, you can experiment with other extracts like vanilla or almond for a unique twist on these soft mints.

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

You can add red food coloring during the mixing process. Simply mix in a few drops until you reach your desired shade!

Can I substitute sweetened condensed milk?

Yes, you can use coconut cream or any non-dairy cream alternative if you’re looking for a dairy-free option while keeping that creamy texture intact.

Final Thoughts

These Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) are not just treats; they’re little bites of holiday joy that bring back cherished memories. I hope this recipe finds its way into your kitchen and warms your heart as you create sweet moments with loved ones. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful mints — they’re sure to brighten anyone’s day!