Soft Christmas Peppermints – Melt-In-Your-Mouth Delights

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s perfect for the holiday season, you’ve come to the right place! These Soft Christmas Peppermints – Melt-In-Your-Mouth Delights are not only easy to make but also bring a festive touch to any gathering. I love making these with my family during the holidays, and they always disappear faster than I can put them out on the table. With their creamy texture and refreshing minty flavor, they are sure to be a hit at your next family gathering or holiday party.

The best part? You can whip up these delicious mints in just about 30 minutes! They’re a fantastic addition to your dessert spread or even as a charming homemade gift. Trust me, once you try these Soft Christmas Peppermints, you’ll want to keep this recipe close by for all your future celebrations!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy days.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love rolling the mints, and it’s a great way to spend time together.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare these mints ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment.
• Customizable Flavors: Use different extracts or food coloring for a personal touch!
• Deliciously Sweet: The melt-in-your-mouth texture combined with peppermint flavor is simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find that this recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you need to create these delightful mints.

For the Mints

• 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk (Do not substitute with powdered milk)
• ½ cup Butter (Use unsalted butter for best results)
• 4 cups Powdered Sugar (Do not substitute unless necessary)
• 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (Can replace with vanilla or almond extracts)
• as needed drops Food Coloring (Optional for festive colors)

Variations

One of the best things about Soft Christmas Peppermints is how flexible they are! Feel free to get creative and customize them to suit your taste or occasion. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Swap the Extract: Try using vanilla or almond extract instead of peppermint for a different flavor profile.
• Add Some Color: Use various food coloring drops to create a rainbow effect or classic red and green mints.
• Mix in Chocolate: Fold in some mini chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness!
• Shape Them Differently: Instead of traditional mints, use cookie cutters to create festive shapes.

How to Make Soft Christmas Peppermints – Melt-In-Your-Mouth Delights

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, unsalted butter, and peppermint extract. Mix well until everything is blended smoothly. This step is crucial as it ensures that all flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 2: Add Powdered Sugar

Gradually add in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Stir gently after each addition until fully incorporated. This will help prevent a sugary cloud from forming – we want these soft mints, not flour clouds!

Step 3: Color It Up

If you’re using food coloring, now’s the time! Add drops as needed until you reach your desired shade. This small step adds an extra festive flair that makes your Soft Christmas Peppermints even more fun.

Step 4: Shape the Mints

Using your hands, take small amounts of dough and roll them into balls or flatten them slightly into disks. Place them on parchment paper-lined trays. This is where you get to enjoy shaping your creations!

Step 5: Let Them Set

Allow the mints to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving. This helps them firm up just enough while still keeping that melt-in-your-mouth texture we all love!

Now you’re ready to share these delightful treats with friends and family! Enjoy every bite of your Soft Christmas Peppermints – Melt-In-Your-Mouth Delights!

Pro Tips for Making Soft Christmas Peppermints – Melt-In-Your-Mouth Delights

Creating the perfect batch of Soft Christmas Peppermints can be a delightful experience, and a few simple tips will elevate your homemade treats to the next level!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your butter is at room temperature helps it blend smoothly with the sweetened condensed milk, resulting in a creamier texture for your mints.
• Sift the powdered sugar: Sifting your powdered sugar prevents lumps and gives your mints a silky smooth finish, making them even more melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
• Experiment with flavors: While peppermint is classic, don’t hesitate to try different extracts! Vanilla or almond can add a unique twist that might surprise and delight your taste buds.
• Adjust food coloring carefully: If you’re adding food coloring, start with just a drop. You can always add more to achieve your desired shade, but it’s much harder to lighten if you overdo it!
• Store properly for freshness: Keep your mints in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their soft texture and keep them fresh for days!

How to Serve Soft Christmas Peppermints – Melt-In-Your-Mouth Delights

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are not only tasty but also visually appealing, making them perfect for festive gatherings or as thoughtful gifts. Here are some delightful ideas on how to present them!

Garnishes

• Crushed Candy Canes: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top of the mints for an added crunch and festive flair.
• Sprigs of Fresh Mint: Place a small mint leaf beside each peppermint on the serving platter for a refreshing touch that enhances the overall presentation.

Side Dishes

• Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of rich hot chocolate complements the coolness of the peppermint perfectly, creating a cozy pairing ideal for holiday gatherings.
• Spiced Tea: Serve these mints alongside a fragrant spiced tea; the warm spices will contrast beautifully with the sweet minty flavor.
• Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of fresh fruits adds a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the mints, making it an inviting addition to any dessert table.
• Cheese Board: A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory counterpoint to the sweetness of your mints and create a delightful tasting experience when enjoyed together.

With these tips and serving suggestions in hand, you’re all set to impress friends and family this holiday season with your homemade Soft Christmas Peppermints! Enjoy every melt-in-your-mouth moment!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade treats without the last-minute rush. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday gathering or simply want to have a sweet snack on hand, these mints hold their deliciousness over time.

Storing Leftovers

• Store your mints in an airtight container at room temperature.
• If you prefer, you can refrigerate them for extra firmness.
• Keep them separated with parchment paper if layering to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Arrange the mints in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Label the container with the date and store for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat these mints; they’re best enjoyed at room temperature!
• If they’ve been stored in the fridge, let them sit out for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

Got questions about making these delightful Soft Christmas Peppermints? You’re not alone! Here are some common queries that might help:

Can I use other extracts instead of peppermint?

Absolutely! While the focus keyphrase refers to Soft Christmas Peppermints, you can substitute peppermint extract with vanilla or almond extract for a different flavor profile.

How long do Soft Christmas Peppermints last?

When stored properly, these melt-in-your-mouth delights can last up to two weeks at room temperature or three months if frozen.

Are Soft Christmas Peppermints gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is gluten-free since it relies on powdered sugar and does not include any flour or gluten-containing ingredients.

Can I add color to my Soft Christmas Peppermints?

Definitely! A few drops of food coloring can make your mints festive. Just remember to mix well until you achieve your desired shade!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Soft Christmas Peppermints – Melt-In-Your-Mouth Delights! They are not just a treat but also a way to share warmth and cheer during the holidays. Enjoy every step of the process, and don’t hesitate to get creative with flavors and colors. Happy mint-making!