Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

These Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) are a delightful holiday treat that will surely bring joy to anyone who tastes them. With a creamy, buttery base combined with refreshing mint flavor, these mints are perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re gifting them, sharing with friends and family, or simply indulging yourself, their melt-in-your-mouth texture and sweet taste make them a standout holiday treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort with just a few simple steps, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery goodness and refreshing peppermint creates an irresistible candy that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Gifting: These mints are ideal for holiday gift baskets or as thoughtful treats for friends and family.
• Versatile Design: You can customize the color and shape of your mints, making them great for any festive occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love helping out in the kitchen with this fun and easy candy-making project.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Soft Christmas Peppermints successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and ensures you get perfect results every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining your ingredients without spills or messes.
• Electric mixer: Using an electric mixer saves time and ensures your mixture is smooth and well-blended.
• Rubber spatula: This tool helps scrape down the sides of the bowl, ensuring that no ingredients are left behind.
• Baking sheet: A flat surface to set your mints allows for even cooling and easy access when shaping.

Ingredients

To create these delightful Soft Christmas Peppermints, gather the following ingredients:

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

Optional Color Additive

• Red food coloring (optional)

For Coating

• Granulated sugar (for coating)

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

Follow these simple steps to whip up your batch of Soft Christmas Peppermints:

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Begin by clearing a clean surface in your kitchen. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking once your mints are shaped.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the softened butter and sweetened condensed milk. Mix until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
3. Stir in peppermint extract and salt. If desired, add red food coloring until you reach your preferred shade.

Step 3: Shape the Mints

1. Use your hands or a small cookie scoop to form small balls from the mixture.
2. Roll each ball in granulated sugar for added sweetness and texture.
3. Place the coated mints on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Chill Until Firm

Refrigerate the mints for about one hour or until they firm up completely. Once chilled, they will hold their shape nicely.

Enjoy creating these delightful Soft Christmas Peppermints that will surely brighten up any holiday gathering!

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

Soft Christmas Peppermints are delightful treats that can add a festive flair to any gathering. Here are some creative ways to serve them during the holiday season.

Gift Boxes

• Present these mints in cute boxes or jars for a charming homemade gift. Add a festive ribbon for an extra touch.

Candy Buffet

• Include Soft Christmas Peppermints on a holiday candy buffet. Their vibrant colors and sweet flavor will attract guests of all ages.

Dessert Table

• Serve these mints alongside other holiday desserts. Their creamy texture and minty flavor complement rich cakes and cookies.

After-Dinner Treats

• Offer these mints as a refreshing after-dinner treat. They help cleanse the palate and provide a sweet finish to your meal.

Holiday Parties

• Place bowls of mints around your party space for easy snacking. They’re perfect for mingling guests who want something sweet without feeling too indulgent.

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

Making the perfect Soft Christmas Peppermints requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your mints turn out just right.

• Use softened butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing, which helps create a smooth texture.
• Sift powdered sugar: Sifting removes lumps, leading to a lighter, fluffier mint mixture.
• Adjust peppermint extract: Start with less extract if you’re unsure; you can always add more until you achieve your desired minty flavor.
• Chill before shaping: Refrigerate the mixture for about 30 minutes before shaping it into mints. This will make it easier to handle.
• Coat with granulated sugar: Rolling each mint in sugar not only adds sweetness but also helps prevent them from sticking together.
• Store properly: Keep your mints in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their soft texture and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

Soft Christmas Peppermints pair well with various side dishes that enhance their sweetness while providing balance. Consider serving them alongside these delightful options.

1. Cheese Platter
   A mix of cheeses like sharp cheddar and creamy brie complements the sweetness of the mints beautifully.

2. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits such as cranberries, oranges, and apples adds a refreshing contrast to the rich mints.

3. Nut Mix
   A savory nut mix provides crunch and saltiness, creating an enjoyable contrast with the soft candies.

4. Mini Sandwiches
   Small sandwiches filled with turkey or chicken salad offer substance without overshadowing the sweetness of the mints.

5. Vegetable Crudités
   Fresh veggies served with a light dip can cleanse the palate between sweets while adding color to your table.

6. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels
   The sweet-and-salty combination of chocolate-covered pretzels pairs nicely with Soft Christmas Peppermints for an exciting flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Soft Christmas Peppermints can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls that can affect your results.

• Using cold butter: Cold butter makes it hard to blend the ingredients smoothly. Always ensure your butter is at room temperature for a creamy texture.
• Not measuring powdered sugar accurately: Using too much or too little powdered sugar can alter the consistency. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
• Skipping the salt: A pinch of salt enhances flavor. Omitting it can lead to bland mints, so don’t skip this essential step.
• Overworking the dough: Mixing too long can make your mints tough. Mix just until combined for a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Ignoring cooling time: Allowing the mints to cool thoroughly before serving is crucial for setting their shape and flavor. Patience pays off here.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• They will last for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

• Place mints in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.
• Transfer to an airtight container; they can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

• Oven: Preheat to 200°F (93°C). Warm for about 5 minutes until slightly softened.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 5-10 seconds. Be careful not to melt them completely.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat for a few minutes, stirring gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making these Soft Christmas Peppermints, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use different flavors instead of peppermint extract?

Yes! You can experiment with other extracts like vanilla or almond for unique variations.

How do I achieve a vibrant color for my mints?

Adding red food coloring during mixing helps create a festive look. Adjust the amount based on your desired intensity.

How long do Soft Christmas Peppermints last?

These mints stay fresh in an airtight container for up to two weeks in the refrigerator and three months if frozen.

Can I make these without sweetened condensed milk?

While sweetened condensed milk adds creaminess and sweetness, you could substitute with a mix of heavy cream and sugar, adjusting quantities accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Soft Christmas Peppermints are not only easy to make but also versatile for any holiday gathering. Customize them with different colors or flavors to suit your taste! These delightful treats are sure to impress everyone who tries them, so give this recipe a try during your next celebration!