Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

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There’s something deeply nostalgic about soft Christmas peppermints — those melt-in-your-mouth, buttery little bites that remind me of holiday gatherings at grandma’s house. I’ve always loved their delicate texture, soft pastel swirls, and the gentle burst of peppermint that lingers just long enough to feel festive but never overpowering. These old-fashioned butter mints are not only beautiful on a holiday tray, they’re also one of the simplest candies you can make right at home.

Making these treats is part of my December tradition, often while holiday music plays in the background and the scent of peppermint fills the air. Whether you’re setting a tray out for guests or wrapping them in a festive jar for gifting, soft Christmas peppermints bring joy to anyone who tries them. Plus, they don’t require special candy thermometers or fussy techniques—just a few pantry staples and a little patience while they set.

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Why You’ll Love This Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe

These mints are the perfect combination of creamy, sweet, and cool. They’re light, airy, and dissolve the moment they hit your tongue. Visually, they bring a pop of color to any cookie platter or dessert table. Best of all, they make an impressive homemade gift with almost no baking involved. You can whip up a big batch in advance and enjoy them all season long.

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What Kind of Peppermint Extract Should I Use?

Pure peppermint extract is the way to go here—don’t substitute with artificial flavoring. The real extract has a cleaner, brighter flavor and gives that classic peppermint taste without bitterness. Start with a small amount; you can always add more, but it’s hard to take it back once it’s mixed in.

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Options for Substitutions

• Butter: If you need a dairy-free version, plant-based butter works well. Just make sure it’s unsalted and has a neutral flavor.
• Cream: Heavy cream is traditional, but half-and-half or even coconut cream can work in a pinch.
• Food Coloring: Stick to gel food coloring for vibrant results without altering the texture. Skip the food coloring entirely if you want a clean, classic white mint.
• Flavor Variation: While peppermint is traditional, you could try other extracts like spearmint, lemon, or vanilla for a twist.

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Ingredients for This Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe

• Unsalted Butter: The base of the butter mint. It adds richness and that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture. Let it soften at room temperature so it blends smoothly.
• Powdered Sugar: This is the structure of the mint. It gives the candy its firm yet tender texture. Sifted sugar helps avoid lumps.
• Heavy Cream: Helps create a creamy texture and balances the sweetness.
• Peppermint Extract: The soul of this candy. A small amount gives that fresh, cool mint flavor.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Food Coloring (Optional): Adds festive holiday colors. Gel-based coloring works best and doesn’t alter the consistency.
• Cornstarch (for dusting): Prevents the mints from sticking during shaping or storage.

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Step 1: Cream the Butter

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until it’s smooth, creamy, and pale. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes with a hand mixer.

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Step 2: Add Cream and Peppermint Extract

Pour in the heavy cream, peppermint extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat again until fully incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and fragrant.

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Step 3: Gradually Add Powdered Sugar

Start adding the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing after each addition. The dough will get very thick — switch to a spatula or your hands once it becomes too stiff for the mixer.

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Step 4: Divide and Color the Dough

If using food coloring, divide the dough into portions and knead a drop or two of gel coloring into each. You can create classic red, green, and white batches for a festive look.

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Step 5: Shape the Mints

Roll small portions into ropes and cut into bite-sized pieces, or use silicone molds for decorative shapes. Lightly dust your surface and hands with cornstarch to prevent sticking.

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Step 6: Let Them Dry

Arrange the mints in a single layer on parchment paper. Let them air-dry at room temperature for at least 12 hours (or overnight) until they firm up but remain soft inside.

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How Long to Prepare the Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe

Making soft Christmas peppermints doesn’t take much hands-on time, but the drying process does require a little patience.

Active Time: From creaming the butter to shaping the mints, expect about 30 to 45 minutes of active prep. If you’re using multiple colors or intricate molds, it may take closer to an hour.

Drying Time: The shaped mints need to rest at room temperature for 12 to 24 hours. This allows them to form a firm outer shell while staying soft and buttery on the inside.

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Tips for Perfect Soft Christmas Peppermints

• Use Room Temperature Butter: Cold butter won’t blend smoothly, and melted butter will make the dough too loose.
• Sift the Sugar: To avoid lumps and ensure a smooth dough, always sift your powdered sugar.
• Work in Batches: Divide the dough if you’re coloring it. This makes kneading easier and avoids overmixing.
• Use Cornstarch: A light dusting on your hands and tools helps prevent sticking during shaping.
• Air Dry on Parchment: Avoid wax paper, which can cause sticking. Parchment allows for proper drying and easy removal.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Adding Too Much Extract: Peppermint extract is potent. Measure carefully or risk overwhelming the flavor.
• Overmixing the Dough: Overworking the dough can lead to a tough texture. Stop once it holds together.
• Skipping the Dry Time: Don’t rush it — drying is what gives these mints their signature soft-but-firm texture.
• Wrong Type of Butter: Salted butter can throw off the flavor balance. Always use unsalted.
• Incorrect Storage: Moisture is the enemy here. Improper storage can make your mints sticky or soggy.

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What to Serve With Soft Christmas Peppermints?

1. Hot Chocolate

Serve these mints on the side of a rich, creamy hot chocolate. The peppermint flavor perfectly complements cocoa.

2. Christmas Cookie Platters

Add them to a festive cookie tray for variety in texture and color.

3. Coffee or Espresso

Drop one into a cup of hot coffee for a minty swirl, or serve alongside espresso shots.

4. Dessert Charcuterie Boards

Mix them with fudge, shortbread, and dried fruits for a beautiful dessert grazing board.

5. Holiday Cocktail Garnish

Use them as edible garnishes for peppermint martinis or holiday-themed cocktails.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store the dried mints in an airtight container lined with parchment paper. Keep them at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Layer with wax or parchment paper if stacking.

Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze them. Place in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, then separate layers with parchment. Thaw at room temperature uncovered to avoid condensation.

Avoid Moisture: These mints are sensitive to humidity. Always keep them in a dry spot and avoid containers that trap moisture.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Mint)

• Calories: ~20
• Fat: 1g
• Saturated Fat: 0.6g
• Sugar: 2.5g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 3mg
• Sodium: 1mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long do homemade butter mints last?

Properly stored at room temperature, they last up to 2 weeks. In the freezer, they can keep for up to 2 months.

Can I use other flavors besides peppermint?

Yes! Vanilla, lemon, spearmint, or even almond extract are great variations.

Do I need to refrigerate the dough before shaping?

No refrigeration needed. The dough is ready to shape right after mixing.

Can I use cookie cutters instead of molds?

Yes, but make sure the dough is firm enough to hold shape. Smaller cutters work best.

Why are my mints too sticky?

They may not have dried long enough or were exposed to too much moisture. Let them air dry longer and store in a dry container.

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Conclusion

Soft Christmas Peppermints are a charming and nostalgic addition to your holiday traditions. With just a few basic ingredients and a bit of festive flair, you can create these delightful treats at home. Whether you’re gifting them or enjoying them by the fire with a cup of cocoa, these old-fashioned butter mints bring a cool, creamy touch of magic to the season. Happy candy-making!

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