If you’re searching for a whimsical, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s both beautiful and delightfully nostalgic, look no further than Soft Christmas Peppermints. These pastel-hued little sweets are incredibly easy to make with just a handful of pantry staples, yet they deliver a punch of cool peppermint flavor and a gentle vanilla finish that perfectly captures the spirit of the holiday season. Whether you’re tucking them into festive cookie trays, offering them as a heartfelt homemade gift, or simply enjoying them with a mug of cocoa by the fire, Soft Christmas Peppermints are destined to bring a little extra sweetness and sparkle to your celebrations.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to unforgettable Soft Christmas Peppermints lies in how each simple ingredient works together to give that iconic creamy center, gentle sweetness, and vibrant color. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a helpful tip for each one:
- Powdered Sugar: This is the basis for the deliciously soft, melt-away texture—make sure to sift for the smoothest results.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds richness, moisture, and helps bind the dough for that classic creamy feel.
- Peppermint Extract: A little goes a long way, so add to taste for your perfect level of minty coolness.
- Vanilla Extract: Balances and rounds out the peppermint, making the flavor soft and inviting.
- Salt: Just a pinch brings out the sweetness and intensifies the flavors.
- Red and Green Gel Food Coloring: Use these for that festive Christmas flair—gel works best for vibrant, streak-free shades.
- Extra Powdered Sugar (for dusting): Keeps sticky fingers at bay while rolling and shaping your mints.
How to Make Soft Christmas Peppermints
Step 1: Mix the Flavor Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir them together until the mixture is smooth and well blended—the aroma at this stage is pure holiday magic! This forms the backbone of your Soft Christmas Peppermints and ensures every bite is bursting with festive flavor.
Step 2: Form the Dough
Gradually add the powdered sugar into your wet mixture, stirring continuously. The dough will transition from a sticky liquid to a soft, pliable ball. If it gets a little too stiff, don’t worry! It’s supposed to be thick so it holds its shape once rolled. This step is tactile and satisfying, and you’ll know it’s ready when it’s no longer sticky but still very soft.
Step 3: Divide and Color
Split the dough into three equal portions. Leave one as is for classic white mints, then tint one portion with red gel food coloring and the other with green. Add color a little at a time, kneading it in thoroughly for an even, bright shade. Watching the colors swirl into the dough really adds a dash of holiday excitement!
Step 4: Shape the Mints
Dust a countertop or tray with powdered sugar. Take small pieces of your dough and roll them into 1-inch balls—think about the size of a chocolate truffle. Gently flatten each one either with your fingers or by pressing with the tines of a fork for a playful pattern. The extra powdered sugar will keep things from sticking and add a subtle, snowy finish.
Step 5: Dry the Mints
Arrange all your shaped mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet, making sure they aren’t touching. Now for the hardest part—waiting! Let them dry at room temperature for at least 12 hours. They’ll turn firm on the outside but remain irresistibly soft on the inside, the signature texture of Soft Christmas Peppermints.
How to Serve Soft Christmas Peppermints
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra powdered sugar over the top just before serving reinforces their snowy, festive look and hints at their pillowy softness inside. For even more sparkle, a few edible silver balls or crushed peppermint candy bits can give your Soft Christmas Peppermints a show-stopping finish worthy of any dessert table.
Side Dishes
Pair these beauties with a steaming mug of hot cocoa or rich dark coffee—the minty freshness is the perfect palate cleanser alongside deeper holiday flavors. They’re also wonderful served alongside holiday cookies, spiced cakes, or a tray of fudge when you want to round out a sweet spread for guests.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange Soft Christmas Peppermints in decorative jars or cellophane bags tied with ribbon for lovely homemade gifts. Layer white, red, and green mints together for a rainbow effect, or place them in mini cupcake wrappers and nestle them onto a festive platter. For parties, you might even stack them into a peppermint “tree” as a centerpiece!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Soft Christmas Peppermints have dried and set, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll keep beautifully soft for up to two weeks—just be sure to separate layers with wax or parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Freezing
If you want to make these in advance (hello, holiday planning!), simply place the candies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and store for up to two months. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best soft-center experience.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat Soft Christmas Peppermints, as they’re designed to be served at room temperature for optimal taste and texture. If they’ve been in the fridge or freezer, just let them sit out for about 30 minutes before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I use liquid food coloring instead of gel?
Gel food coloring is preferred because it’s more concentrated and won’t water down the dough, but in a pinch, liquid color will work—just add a little at a time to avoid changing the candy’s texture.
How long do the Soft Christmas Peppermints need to dry?
For best results, allow at least 12 hours of drying time at room temperature. This forms a delicate “shell” on the outside, while keeping the inside moist and soft.
Do I have to use both peppermint and vanilla extract?
You can use peppermint alone, but the splash of vanilla really mellows and rounds out the flavor, making these candies especially crowd-pleasing.
Are these mints gluten-free and vegetarian?
Yes! All the ingredients in Soft Christmas Peppermints are naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making them a safe treat for most guests at your gathering.
Why are my mints sticky after drying?
Humidity can play a big role—try dusting the surface with a bit more powdered sugar and allowing them a little extra drying time. Storing them in a cool, dry place also helps maintain their texture.
Final Thoughts
Bringing a batch of Soft Christmas Peppermints into your home is like sharing a little piece of cheerful nostalgia with everyone you love. With their stunning holiday colors and irresistible flavor, these candies will surely become a treasured classic in your holiday traditions. Give them a try—you might find they’re just as fun to make as they are to eat!
