Soft Christmas Peppermints are a nostalgic, melt-in-your-mouth holiday candy that combines buttery sweetness with a refreshing peppermint flavor. These old-fashioned butter mints have a smooth, creamy texture and a festive look that makes them perfect for Christmas gatherings, cookie trays, hot cocoa bars, and edible gifting. If you love classic homemade holiday treats, these Soft Christmas Peppermints will quickly become a yearly tradition.
Why You’ll Love These Soft Christmas Peppermints
You’ll love this recipe because it’s simple, nostalgic, and unbelievably delicious. Each mint is soft and creamy—not chalky—thanks to the butter and powdered sugar mixture. The peppermint flavor is refreshing without being overpowering, and you can customize the colors for any holiday theme. Additionally, they require no baking, no boiling, and no special equipment, making them ideal for quick holiday prep.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
If you want a homemade Christmas candy that looks impressive but is incredibly easy, these butter mints are perfect. They store well, pack beautifully into jars or tins, and stay soft for weeks. They’re great for cookie boards, hot cocoa bars, and edible gifts. Because the flavor and texture feel so nostalgic, they always stand out among holiday desserts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons heavy cream
½ teaspoon peppermint extract
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of salt
Food coloring (red, green, or pastel shades)
Additional powdered sugar for dusting
How to Make Soft Christmas Peppermints (Step-by-Step)
Step 1 – Mix the Butter and Cream
Beat the softened butter and heavy cream together until creamy and smooth.
Step 2 – Add Flavoring
Blend in peppermint extract, vanilla (if using), and a pinch of salt.
Step 3 – Add the Powdered Sugar
Gradually add powdered sugar until a soft dough forms. It should be smooth, pliable, and not sticky.
Step 4 – Divide and Color
Separate the dough into portions and tint each batch with food coloring.
Step 5 – Shape the Mints
Roll each portion into thin ropes. Cut into small mint-sized pieces with a knife or bench scraper.
Step 6 – Dry the Mints
Place the pieces on parchment paper and allow them to air-dry for 12–24 hours until firm on the outside and soft inside.
Step 7 – Serve or Store
Once dry, transfer the mints to jars, bowls, or tins.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per 10 mints)
Calories: 95 | Fat: 4g | Carbs: 15g | Sugar: 14g | Protein: 0g
Tips for the Best Soft Christmas Peppermints
- Use room-temperature butter for smooth mixing.
- Add powdered sugar slowly to avoid dryness.
- Choose gel food coloring for vibrant shades.
- Keep the dough soft; don’t overmix.
- Dust your surface lightly with sugar to prevent sticking.
- Make tiny pieces—they’re meant to melt instantly.
- Allow plenty of drying time so the outside sets.
- Store in a cool place to keep the texture soft.
- Add a touch of cream if the dough feels crumbly.
- Make multiple colors for a charming holiday look.
Variations & Substitutions
Spearmint Version: Replace peppermint with spearmint extract.
Vanilla Butter Mints: Skip the mint and add extra vanilla.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle cooled mints with melted chocolate.
Pastel Spring Mints: Use soft pinks, yellows, and blues.
Cinnamon Mints: Add cinnamon oil for a spicy version.
Candy Cane Style: Swirl white and red dough together.
Coconut Mints: Add ½ teaspoon coconut extract.
Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and coconut cream.
What to Serve With Soft Peppermints
Serve them in candy bowls, alongside hot chocolate, after Christmas dinner, or with coffee and tea. Add them to dessert boards, cookie platters, gingerbread houses, or holiday snack assortments. They also make charming gifts when packaged in small tins or glass jars.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid adding too much food coloring—it changes the texture.
Don’t skip the drying time or the mints will be too soft.
Avoid using cold butter or the dough will be lumpy.
Don’t store them warm or they may melt together.
Avoid over-kneading or the mints will lose their airy softness.
Storing Tips
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Room Temperature: Keep in a cool, dry place for 7–10 days.
Freezer: Freeze in airtight bags for up to 2 months; thaw at room temp.
Serving: For the softest texture, serve at room temperature.
Conclusion
Soft Christmas Peppermints bring together nostalgia, simplicity, and pure holiday charm. They’re buttery, minty, melt-in-your-mouth delightful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re gifting them, serving them at parties, or simply enjoying them with your loved ones, these old-fashioned mints add a magical touch to the season.
10 Recipe FAQ’s
- Can I use mint extract instead of peppermint? Yes, but adjust to taste.
- How long do the mints need to dry? Usually 12–24 hours.
- Can I make them dairy-free? Vegan butter works well.
- Why is my dough crumbly? Add 1–2 teaspoons cream.
- Can I freeze the mints? Yes, up to 2 months.
- How long do they stay soft? About 1–2 weeks.
- Can I make them pastel? Use tiny drops of gel coloring.
- Can kids help? Absolutely—shaping is fun.
- Can I roll them into balls instead of ropes? Yes, that works too.
- How strong is the mint flavor? Mild and refreshing, but you can increase it.