SOFT CHRISTMAS PEPPERMINTS – Delicious & Homemade

Introduction

Get ready to make an incredible SOFT CHRISTMAS PEPPERMINTS that everyone will love! This recipe combines simple ingredients with great flavor to create something truly special. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is both delicious and easy to prepare.

Follow along as we show you how to make this wonderful recipe step by step!

Soft Christmas Peppermints

These old-fashioned, melt-in-your-mouth peppermints are soft, creamy, and bursting with pure peppermint flavor. They’re incredibly easy to make with just a few ingredients and are perfect for holiday gift-giving or leaving out for Santa.

Prep Time: 15 mins | Set Time: 2-3 hours | Makes: About 60-70 mints

Ingredients

· 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
· 1 tsp peppermint extract (use pure, not imitation, for best flavor)
· 6-7 cups (about 2 lbs) powdered sugar, sifted
· Red food coloring (gel or paste recommended for vibrant color)
· Optional: Granulated sugar or coarse sugar for rolling

Instructions

Mix the Base

· In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and peppermint extract until completely smooth and creamy.
· Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low speed after each addition until incorporated.
· After about 4-5 cups, the mixture will become very stiff. At this point, you may need to switch to mixing by hand with a sturdy spoon or your hands.
· Continue adding powdered sugar until the dough is no longer sticky and can be rolled into a ball that holds its shape. It should be firm but still pliable.

Color & Shape

· Divide the dough into two equal halves. Leave one half white.
· To the other half, add red food coloring a few drops at a time, kneading it in until you achieve your desired shade of pink or red.
· On a surface lightly dusted with powdered sugar, roll each color of dough into a long rope, about ½-inch thick.
· Place the two ropes side by side and gently twist them together to create a candy cane effect.

Form the Mints

· Slice Method: Slice the twisted rope into ½-inch pieces. Gently roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into a disc.
· Twist & Snap Method: For a rustic look, pinch off small pieces from the twisted rope (about ½ tsp each) and roll into balls.

Set & Store

· Place the mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet or tray. Let them sit, uncovered, at room temperature for 2-3 hours to dry slightly and develop their signature soft-but-firm texture.
· If desired, roll the balls in granulated or coarse sugar before setting.

Package

· Once set, store in an airtight container between layers of wax or parchment paper.

Key Success Tips

· Sift the Powdered Sugar: This prevents lumps in your mints.
· Don’t Skimp on Extract: Use pure peppermint extract for the best flavor. You can adjust to taste (some like it stronger).
· Patience with Sugar: The dough must be firm enough to hold its shape, but over-kneading can make it oily.
· Gel Food Coloring: Liquid coloring can alter the consistency; gel or paste gives vibrant color without adding moisture.
· Humidity Warning: In humid climates, allow extra drying time or dust with more powdered sugar.

Storage & Gifting

· Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for 1-2 weeks.
· Refrigerate: For longer storage (up to 3 weeks), refrigerate. Let come to room temperature before serving for best texture.
· Freezing: Freeze in a single layer, then bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.
· Gift Idea: Package in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon, or in festive tins lined with parchment.

Delicious Variations

· Chocolate Dipped: Dip half of each set mint in melted dark or white chocolate.
· Christmas Swirl: Add a few drops of green food coloring to a third of the dough for a red, white, and green twist.
· Peppermint Patties: Flatten balls into discs and sandwich a small dab of dark chocolate ganache between two mints.
· Flavored Centers: Add a drop of food coloring to create a colorful center when you bite in.
· Sprinkle Rolled: Roll the balls in festive sprinkles or crushed candy canes instead of sugar.

Enjoy these tender, festive, and irresistibly minty homemade treats!

Conclusion

Congratulations on making this delicious SOFT CHRISTMAS PEPPERMINTS! We hope you and your loved ones enjoyed every bite of this flavorful dish. This recipe is perfect for sharing with family and friends, and we’re confident it will become a regular favorite in your kitchen.

🍽️ Looking for more amazing recipes? Browse through our collection of delicious dishes on YumPost! From quick weeknight dinners to impressive desserts, we have something for every taste and occasion.

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