Soft Christmas Peppermints are the perfect festive treat that can add a sweet touch to your holiday celebrations. These delightful minty morsels are soft, chewy, and bursting with peppermint flavor. Their vibrant red and green colors make them not only joyful to eat but also visually pleasing on any holiday dessert table. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday gathering or giving them as gifts, these soft peppy treats are bound to spread cheer!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 24 pieces
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: Approximately 60
Protein: 0.1 grams
Carbohydrates: 15 grams
Fat: 1-2 grams
Fiber: 0 grams
Sugar: 12 grams
Sodium: 1 mg

Why Make This Soft Christmas Peppermints

Soft Christmas Peppermints are not only easy to make but they also provide a chance to create wonderful memories with family and friends during the holiday season. Their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with a refreshing peppermint flavor makes them irresistible. Plus, they are a versatile treat—perfect for snacking, decorating holiday packages, or simply sharing the holiday spirit with loved ones.

How to Make Soft Christmas Peppermints

Ingredients:

2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
Red and green food coloring
Granulated sugar for dusting

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

In a bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, softened butter, milk, and peppermint extract until a dough forms. The dough should be pliable and slightly sticky.

Step 2: Mixing

Divide the dough in half. Color one half with a few drops of red food coloring and the other with green food coloring. Knead the dough gently until the colors are fully incorporated.

Step 3: Shaping

Roll the colored dough into small balls, about one inch in diameter, and then flatten them slightly to form little discs.

Step 4: Finishing

Place the candies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Dust with granulated sugar to prevent sticking and allow them to dry for 24 hours. Once dried, store the soft Christmas peppermints in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

How to Serve Soft Christmas Peppermints

These delicious soft peppermints can be served in various ways. Arrange them on a festive platter for a holiday party, package them as gifts in decorative tins, or use them as a delightful addition to your hot chocolate. Their colorful appearance also makes them great for topping holiday cookie platters or as a fun garnish for desserts.

How to Store Soft Christmas Peppermints

Store your soft Christmas peppermints in an airtight container at room temperature. They can stay fresh for up to two weeks, although they are likely to be eaten much quicker! Ensure they are kept in a dry place to maintain their soft texture.

Expert Tips for Perfect Soft Christmas Peppermints

Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
Adjust the amount of peppermint extract according to your taste; you can add a little more for extra minty flavor.
If the dough is too sticky, add a little more powdered sugar until the right texture is achieved.
Experiment with the colors of the dough! You can create unique blends or even other colors to match your holiday theme.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Mint Peppermints: Add cocoa powder to the white dough for a delicious chocolate twist.
Sprinkle Topped: Before the candies dry, sprinkle them with colorful sprinkles for added fun and texture.
Coconut Flavored: Substitute the milk with coconut milk and add shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?
Yes, liquid food coloring will work, but be careful with the amount as it can change the consistency of the dough.
How do I make these sugar-free?
You can replace powdered sugar with a sugar substitute, such as powdered erythritol, though the texture may slightly differ.
What is the best way to mix the dough?
You can use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment for easy mixing or simply mix by hand with a spatula.
How can I make these for a party?
You can prepare a large batch ahead of time and display them in decorative jars or glass containers for an attractive party treat.
Can I freeze these candies?
While these candies are best eaten fresh, you can freeze them for up to one month. Ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Conclusion

Soft Christmas Peppermints are a cheerful treat that beautifully captures the spirit of the holiday season. Their delightful flavor and soft texture make them a hit for both kids and adults alike. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, they are a perfect baking project for anyone looking to spread holiday cheer. So, gather your loved ones and start mixing up these delightful candies—your holiday festivities will be all the sweeter for it!