As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of peppermint wafting through the air instantly transported me to my childhood, where holiday gatherings were filled with laughter and endless treats. There’s something undeniably magical about making Soft Christmas Peppermints, with their creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture and refreshing mint flavor. This gluten-free, no-bake delight is not only a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for those of us who appreciate a stress-free holiday cooking experience, but it also makes for a thoughtful and festive gift! Whether you’re looking to impress guests at your holiday party or simply want to indulge yourself, these delightful mints are bound to create cherished memories. Curious about how to whip up this easy, delicious treat? Let’s dive in!
Why Are Soft Christmas Peppermints Special?
Nostalgic Flavor: These mints evoke fond memories of holiday celebrations past, making every bite a delightful trip down memory lane.
No-Bake Convenience: Perfect for busy hosts, this recipe eliminates oven time so you can enjoy more precious moments with loved ones.
Customizable Delight: Whether you prefer classic peppermint or crave a twist with almond extract, these mints offer endless flavor variations.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: At just 50 calories per mint, you can savor these treats without the holiday guilt. Plus, their gluten-free and vegetarian nature suits many dietary needs, making them a crowd-pleaser!
Thoughtful Gifting: Pack them into festive boxes or jars for a charming homemade gift that friends and family will adore. Looking for more delicious holiday ideas? Try your hand at making some Soft Pumpkin Cookies to accompany your peppermint treats!
Soft Christmas Peppermints Ingredients
For the Mint Base
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – Provides creaminess and sweetness; avoid replacing with powdered milk as it lacks necessary moisture.
- Butter – Adds richness and a buttery flavor; use unsalted for the best results, though margarine is a possible substitute.
- Powdered Sugar – Acts as the primary sweetener and structure; substitutions are not recommended for this essential ingredient.
- Peppermint Extract – Infuses the candies with refreshing mint flavor; if you’re feeling adventurous, vanilla or almond extracts can create tasty variations.
For the Color (Optional)
- Food Coloring – Customize the mints’ appearance for a festive touch; consider dividing the dough to make multiple colors for added fun!
Get ready to create these delightful Soft Christmas Peppermints that will melt in your mouth and bring joy to your holiday celebrations!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Christmas Peppermints
Step 1: Combine Base
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to blend 1 can of sweetened condensed milk and ½ cup softened unsalted butter together. Beat on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps. This forms a rich base for your Soft Christmas Peppermints.
Step 2: Add Sweetness
Gradually sift in 4 cups of powdered sugar while mixing on low speed. Continue to blend for 3-5 minutes until the dough reaches a thick consistency that resembles traditional cookie dough. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all the sugar evenly for the perfect mint base.
Step 3: Infuse Flavor
Now it’s time to add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dough. If you want to incorporate food coloring, this is the moment to do so. Use a spatula to fold the extract and coloring into the mixture until evenly distributed, which should take about 1-2 minutes, leaving you with a fragrant and festive blend.
Step 4: Chill Dough
If the dough feels too soft to handle, place it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes. This chilling period helps firm up the mixture, making it easier to shape into mints later. Check occasionally to ensure it firms but doesn’t harden too much.
Step 5: Shape Mints
Once chilled, take the dough out and roll it into 1-inch balls or use cookie cutters for fun shapes. Place each formed mint onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced evenly apart. The mixture will take on a more defined shape as it sets, showcasing your creativity while making Soft Christmas Peppermints.
Step 6: Set Mints
Allow the mints to sit at room temperature for about 1 hour. This guides the mints in holding their shape without being sticky, creating that ideal soft texture. Keep an eye on them; they should look firm yet retain a slight gloss from the butter and sugar.
Step 7: Store Freshly
Finally, transfer your completed Soft Christmas Peppermints into an airtight container. Store them at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing them in a single layer before placing them in a container, allowing you to enjoy these delights even after the holidays!
What to Serve with Soft Christmas Peppermints
Bring festive cheer to your holiday gatherings by creating a delightful spread that beautifully complements the sweetness of these soft mints.
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Creamy Hot Cocoa: This rich, velvety drink pairs perfectly with the refreshing minty flavor, providing a cozy balance for your taste buds.
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Gingerbread Cookies: The spicy warmth of gingerbread in contrast with the coolness of the mints creates a festive flavor explosion that captures the essence of the season.
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Peppermint Bark: Enhance the minty goodness by serving this crunchy chocolate treat alongside the mints for a textural delight that everyone will love.
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Festive Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast and visual allure to your dessert table, brightening up the holiday spread.
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Eggnog: The creamy, spiced drink complements the mints beautifully, creating a nostalgic blend that’s perfect for holiday festivities.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Warm, aromatic apple cider with cinnamon notes enhances the holiday spirit and invites guests to sip alongside your peppermint treats.
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Nutty Biscotti: This crunchy, nutty treat offers an enjoyable contrast to the soft, creamy mints, inviting a delightful pairing for coffee or tea moments.
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Chocolate Fondue: A rich chocolate fondue station allows guests to dip the mints, uniting flavors in an interactive and indulgent experience.
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Sugar Cookies: Classic sugar cookies, perhaps adorned with holiday-themed icing, can serve as a sweet canvas next to the mints, appealing to all ages.
Expert Tips for Soft Christmas Peppermints
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Choose Quality Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially sweetened condensed milk and butter, are of high quality for the best flavor and creamy texture.
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Chill if Sticky: If your dough seems too sticky, pop it in the refrigerator for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will make handling and shaping the Soft Christmas Peppermints much easier.
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Add a Festive Touch: Consider rolling finished mints in crushed peppermint or colorful sprinkles before they set, making them more visually appealing for holiday gifting.
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Stay Mindful of Storage: To keep your mints fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Freezing can extend their shelf life significantly!
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Custom Flavoring: If you’re feeling adventurous, substitute peppermint extract with almond or vanilla for a delightful twist. Each variation can bring an exciting new taste to your holiday treats!
Make Ahead Options
These Soft Christmas Peppermints are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by blending the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and powdered sugar as instructed, then chilling it until ready to shape. After that, roll the dough into balls or cut out shapes and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. To maintain their quality, keep the unshaped dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator, which helps prevent the mixture from becoming too hard. When you’re ready to serve or gift them, simply let the mints sit at room temperature for about an hour to firm up, and you’ll have delicious treats ready to impress without the stress of last-minute preparation!
Soft Christmas Peppermints Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and customize your Soft Christmas Peppermints for a unique twist that will delight your taste buds!
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Flavor Twist: Try using almond or vanilla extract instead of peppermint for a different flavor dimension. These alternatives can bring warmth and sweetness, perfect for cozy gatherings.
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Crushed Candy Crunch: Incorporate crushed peppermint candies into the mix before shaping. This will add a delightful crunch and enhance the minty flavor, creating a delightful texture experience.
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Colorful Fun: Use food coloring to create vibrant mints in various hues. You can divide the dough and use different colors for an eye-catching presentation that adds a festive touch to any holiday table.
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Chocolate Dip: For an indulgent twist, after setting the mints, dip them in melted chocolate. This decadent addition offers a sumptuous contrast to the soft mint base!
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Festive Sprinkles: Roll the formed mints in colorful sprinkles before they set. This can transform your mints into delightful visual treats that are perfect for sharing and gifting.
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Herbal Infusion: Experiment with essential oils like lavender or lemon for a refreshing twist. A drop or two can elevate your mints and introduce subtle, aromatic flavors.
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Mini Mint Bites: Instead of shaping them into larger mints, use a mini ice cream scoop to create bite-sized candies. Perfect for sharing and they make for an adorable presentation!
If you’re on the lookout for more festive treats, consider making some Soft Pumpkin Cookies to complement your peppermint delights! With all these variations, your holiday gatherings will be infused with love and creativity. Enjoy experimenting!
How to Store and Freeze Soft Christmas Peppermints
Room Temperature: Keep the Soft Christmas Peppermints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the mints in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To enjoy frozen mints, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat these treats; serve them chilled or at room temperature for the best melt-in-your-mouth experience!
Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe FAQs
What type of sweetened condensed milk should I use?
Absolutely! It’s best to use a high-quality brand of sweetened condensed milk to achieve that creamy, rich base for your Soft Christmas Peppermints. Avoid any substitutions, like powdered milk, as they won’t provide the right moisture and sweetness needed for the recipe.
How should I store Soft Christmas Peppermints?
To keep your Soft Christmas Peppermints fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you need them to last longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a container. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze Soft Christmas Peppermints?
Yes! To freeze your Soft Christmas Peppermints, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and chill them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes; they’ll still be melt-in-your-mouth delicious!
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels sticky, don’t worry! Simply place it in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes to firm it up. Check occasionally to make sure it’s not too hard. Once it’s easier to handle, you can roll and shape it into mints without a hassle.
Are Soft Christmas Peppermints suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Great question! These mints are gluten-free and vegetarian, making them suitable for many dietary needs. However, always double-check the ingredients, especially the sweetened condensed milk, as some brands may contain additives. Additionally, if you have nut allergies, you might want to avoid using almond extract as a flavor variation.
Soft Christmas Peppermints That Melt in Your Mouth Delightfully
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine sweetened condensed milk and softened butter in a mixing bowl. Blend using a hand mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until smooth.
- Gradually sift in powdered sugar while mixing on low speed. Blend for 3-5 minutes until the dough is thick.
- Add peppermint extract and food coloring if desired. Fold into the mixture until evenly distributed.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes if it feels too soft.
- Shape the chilled dough into 1-inch balls or use cookie cutters to form shapes. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Allow the mints to sit at room temperature for about 1 hour to hold their shape.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer before transferring to a container.
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