Soft Christmas peppermints are the perfect blend of festive charm and sweet indulgence. These melt-in-your-mouth treats are a holiday staple, offering a customizable flavor and a visually stunning presentation. Their vibrant red and white twists bring a cheerful splash of color to dessert tables, while their delightful peppermint flavor captures the spirit of the season. Whether you’re preparing them for a family gathering, sharing them as a thoughtful gift, or using them to elevate a dessert platter, these mints are as versatile as they are delicious.

Remember it later

Like this recipe? Pin it to your favorite board NOW!

Ingredients Breakdown

Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting these festive peppermints. Softened butter forms the creamy base, ensuring a rich and smooth consistency that binds the dough seamlessly. Powdered sugar adds the signature melt-in-your-mouth texture, creating a firm yet pliable dough that’s easy to shape. Peppermint extract infuses the classic holiday flavor, with its intensity adjustable to suit your taste.

Heavy whipping cream enhances the dough’s softness and workability, adding just the right amount of moisture. Finally, red gel food coloring completes the look with vibrant, festive hues, creating beautiful red and white twists that make these mints as eye-catching as they are delicious.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Peppermints

To achieve flawless peppermints, each step requires care and attention. Begin by whipping the softened butter until it’s light and fluffy. This ensures the butter can evenly incorporate with the other ingredients.

Gradually add the powdered sugar, alternating with the heavy whipping cream. This method prevents lumps and helps create a smooth, cohesive dough. Once the base is ready, mix in the peppermint extract thoroughly, ensuring the flavor is evenly distributed.

Divide the dough into two portions. Keep three-quarters white and knead the remaining quarter with red gel food coloring until it reaches the desired vibrancy. Work gently to avoid overmixing, which could affect the dough’s texture.

Roll each portion into thin ropes, then twist them together carefully. This step requires patience to ensure the colors remain distinct and evenly distributed. Pinch off small sections of the twisted dough and shape them into bite-sized mints.

Allow the mints to air dry for one to two hours, giving them time to firm up on the outside. For the best texture, let them sit for 24 hours to fully set.

Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

Use high-quality gel food coloring for bold, even hues that won’t bleed.

Experiment with flavors like vanilla or almond extract for unique variations.

If the dough is too sticky, chill it briefly to make it easier to handle. If it’s too firm, knead in a small amount of cream.

Shape the mints into festive designs like stars or hearts for different occasions.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce additional salt in the recipe to avoid overwhelming the flavor.

How should I store these mints to keep them fresh?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.

Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to two days before shaping.

What’s the best way to prevent colors from bleeding during twisting?
Use gel food coloring and work quickly to avoid excess moisture softening the dough.

What to Serve With This Recipe

These soft peppermints are a delightful standalone treat, but they truly shine when paired with complementary flavors. Serve them alongside steaming mugs of hot cocoa or freshly brewed coffee for a cozy holiday moment. Arrange them on dessert platters with cookies, fudge, or truffles for a festive spread that dazzles guests. For a creative twist, use them as edible decorations on cakes, cupcakes, or holiday-themed drinks like peppermint mochas.

Storage and Presentation Ideas

Thoughtful packaging turns these mints into charming holiday gifts. Place them in decorative tins or clear jars tied with festive ribbons. Layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and preserve their shape. For longer storage, freeze the mints in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They’ll remain fresh for several months, ready to bring joy to any occasion.

Crafting these soft Christmas peppermints is more than just making candy; it’s about embracing the joy and creativity of the holiday season. Their festive appearance, delightful flavor, and versatility make them a treasured

Ingredients

3 cups powdered sugar
½ cup butter, softened to room temperature
¼ tsp peppermint extract (adjust for desired intensity)
2 tbsp heavy whipping cream
Red gel food coloring

Instructions

In a mixing bowl, whip the softened butter until it reaches a light, airy consistency. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, alternating with the heavy whipping cream, to create a smooth and pliable dough. Add the peppermint extract, mixing thoroughly to evenly distribute the flavor.

Separate the dough into two portions. Keep about three-quarters of the dough white, and blend the remaining quarter with red gel food coloring until it achieves a vibrant hue.

Roll out small sections of the white and red dough into slender ropes. Twist the ropes together gently, ensuring the colors wrap around one another. Pinch off small sections from the twisted ropes and shape them into bite-sized peppermint pieces.

Place the mints on a parchment-lined surface and allow them to air dry for one to two hours. Once the outer surface is firm, let them rest for 24 hours to fully set and develop their delightful texture.