Soft Christmas Peppermints: A Sweet Holiday Delight
Introduction:
The holiday season brings with it a sense of nostalgia, warmth, and, of course, delightful treats! One of our all-time favorites has to be soft Christmas peppermints. These melt-in-your-mouth confections combine the rich taste of buttery goodness with a refreshing peppermint kick. Whether you’re treating yourself, gifting them to loved ones, or sharing them at festive gatherings, these soft mints are sure to spark joy and smiles all around! Subscribe to receive this delightful recipe directly into your inbox!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
You will adore this soft Christmas peppermint recipe for so many reasons! First off, they offer an amazing balance of creamy richness with a festive peppermint burst that dances on your taste buds. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for the busy holiday season. Plus, they’re family-friendly—get the kids involved in rolling the mints, and you’ll create sweet memories along with these charming treats!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 2-3 drops red food coloring (optional)
– 1-2 tablespoons granulated sugar for rolling
Necessary Tools:
– Mixing bowl
– Electric mixer or whisk
– Plastic wrap
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Wax or parchment paper
– Tray for drying
Ingredient Swaps and Additions:
Feel free to customize your mints! You can swap out the peppermint extract for other extracts like vanilla or almond for a different flavor profile. Want to add some pizzazz? Toss in finely crushed candy canes for an extra crunch or use different colors of food coloring to create a festive array of mints.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Begin by beating together the sifted powdered sugar, softened butter, and heavy cream in a large mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. The texture should be light and fluffy, giving you an immediate sense of joy!
2. Next, stir in the peppermint extract—this is where that signature flavor comes alive! If you’d like to give it a little holiday flair, add a few drops of red food coloring. Mix until you achieve the shade you want!
3. Cover your mint mixture with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for about an hour. This is a crucial step to ensure you can easily shape the mints later.
4. Once chilled, take portions of the mixture and roll them into small balls or your desired shape. The fun part is coming up with unique designs!
5. Spread the granulated sugar on a clean surface and roll each mint in it to create a delightful sugary crust that adds texture.
6. Carefully place each mint on a tray lined with wax or parchment paper, allowing them to air dry for about 12-24 hours. The wait is worth it—trust me!
7. Once firm, store your lovely mints in an airtight container at room temperature and enjoy them during your holiday festivities.
Serving Suggestions:
Soft Christmas peppermints make a beautiful addition to holiday gift baskets, or they can serve as a sweet treat alongside a warm cup of cocoa or coffee. You might even place them on a decorative platter for your holiday parties!
Pro Tips for Success:
– Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature, which helps in achieving that creamy consistency.
– If your mints are too sticky, add a bit more powdered sugar until the texture is manageable.
– For a fun twist, experiment with different extract flavors or mix in some colored sprinkles!
Storing and Reheating:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. There’s no need to reheat these mints; they’re delightful straight out of storage!
FAQ Section:
– Can I use different flavors? Absolutely! You can use any flavor extract you desire to match your taste preferences.
– How long do these mints last? When stored in an airtight container, they can last for up to two weeks.
– Can I make them ahead of time? Yes! These mints can be made several days in advance, making them perfect for holiday prep.
Conclusion:
Soft Christmas peppermints are not only a delicious treat but also a wonderful way to bring a little holiday cheer to your home. With their festive flavor and simple preparation, they make the perfect addition to any holiday celebration. Don’t forget to leave reviews, share your lovely photos, or tag us on Pinterest or Instagram if you try out this recipe!
**Nutritional Information:**
Approximately 50 calories per mint, 2g fat, 8g carbohydrates, and 0g protein. Enjoy responsibly!
