If you’ve ever unwrapped a candy cane, you know the invigorating rush of peppermint that instantly brings a smile to your face. Now, imagine that same delightful flavor transformed into soft, chewy bites that practically melt in your mouth. Soft Christmas Peppermints are not just another festive treat; they are a nostalgic reminder of holiday gatherings, family traditions, and the joy of sharing sweet moments with loved ones. This recipe is a celebration of that joyous spirit, perfect for gifting or savoring at home.
Every Christmas, my family would gather in the kitchen, rolling out batches of peppermint candies while holiday music played softly in the background. The rich aroma of peppermint extract mixed with sugar created an atmosphere filled with warmth and cheer. These precious memories inspired me to recreate that experience, and I’m excited to share this simple yet satisfying recipe with you.
Why This Recipe Works
This Soft Christmas Peppermint recipe stands out due to its unique blend of textures and flavors. The use of high-quality peppermint extract ensures a robust, sweet peppermint flavor, while the easy candy-making techniques allow even novice cooks to achieve perfect results. The chewy consistency makes these candies irresistible and ideal for both snacking and gifting during the holiday season. Check out our related guide for more tips.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | 4 cups |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 1 cup |
| Peppermint extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Butter, softened | 2 tablespoons |
| Red food coloring | 1-2 drops (optional) |
Note: For a dairy-free version, substitute the sweetened condensed milk with coconut cream. Ensure the peppermint extract is pure for the best flavor.
Steps / Instructions
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of powdered sugar and 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk. Stir until a dough forms. |
| 2 | Add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and 2 tablespoons of softened butter. Mix until well incorporated. |
| 3 | If desired, add 1-2 drops of red food coloring to create a festive swirl. Mix until the color is evenly distributed. |
| 4 | Lightly dust a clean surface with powdered sugar. Transfer the dough onto the surface and knead gently until smooth. |
| 5 | Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. |
| 6 | Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand to form discs. Allow the candies to set at room temperature for at least 1 hour. |
| 7 | Once set, your Soft Christmas Peppermints are ready to enjoy! Store in an airtight container at room temperature. |
Troubleshooting / Pro Tips
- Ensure your powdered sugar is fresh and not clumpy to achieve a smooth texture.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more powdered sugar until it reaches a workable consistency.
- For a stronger peppermint flavor, feel free to increase the peppermint extract, but do so gradually to avoid overpowering the sweetness.
- To make these candies more festive, consider sprinkling crushed candy canes on top before they set.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 |
| Total Fat | 3g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 5mg |
| Sodium | 15mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| Sugars | 20g |
| Protein | 1g |
Note: Values are estimated and will vary based on ingredients and brands used.
FAQ
- Can I make this ahead of time / meal prep? Yes, these Soft Christmas Peppermints can be made days in advance and stored in an airtight container.
- Can I freeze them, and how do I reheat them properly? Yes, you can freeze these candies. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature.
- What can I serve with this? These candies make excellent additions to holiday gift baskets or can be served alongside other festive treats like brownies or cheesecake bars.
- Why did my candies turn out too hard? If the mixture is over-kneaded or too much sugar is added, it can result in a harder texture. Be gentle while kneading.
Now that you have the recipe for these delightful Soft Christmas Peppermints, it’s time to bring some holiday cheer into your kitchen! I would love to hear how your candies turn out. Please leave a comment below and share your thoughts or even a photo of your creations. Don’t forget to subscribe for more festive recipes that will make your holidays even sweeter!
Soft Christmas Peppermints that Melt in Your Mouth
Soft Christmas Peppermints are not just another festive treat; they are a nostalgic reminder of holiday gatherings, family traditions, and the joy of sharing sweet moments with loved ones.
Ingredients
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1-2 drops red food coloring (optional)
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of powdered sugar and 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk. Stir until a dough forms.
Add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and 2 tablespoons of softened butter. Mix until well incorporated.
If desired, add 1-2 drops of red food coloring to create a festive swirl. Mix until the color is evenly distributed.
Lightly dust a clean surface with powdered sugar. Transfer the dough onto the surface and knead gently until smooth.
Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Flatten each ball slightly with the palm of your hand to form discs. Allow the candies to set at room temperature for at least 1 hour.
Once set, your Soft Christmas Peppermints are ready to enjoy! Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Recipe Reviews
- ★★★★★
Excellent recipe!
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Excellent recipe!