Description
These soft Christmas peppermints are melt-in-your-mouth candies with a delightful peppermint flavor. Made with just a few simple ingredients, they’re the perfect festive treat for your holiday celebrations or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Ingredients
Scale
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- A pinch of salt
- Red food coloring (optional)
- Granulated sugar (for coating)
Instructions
- Cream the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the softened butter until it’s light and fluffy. This step ensures your mints have that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Mix in the Condensed Milk and Peppermint Extract: Slowly add the sweetened condensed milk and peppermint extract to the butter. Mix thoroughly until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar Gradually: One cup at a time, mix in the powdered sugar and a pinch of salt. Continue mixing until the dough forms a soft yet firm consistency.
- Divide and Color: If you’d like to add a festive touch, divide the dough into portions. Add a few drops of red food coloring to one portion, kneading until evenly distributed. You can leave the other portion white for a classic peppermint look.
- Shape the Mints: Dust a clean surface with powdered sugar. Roll each portion of dough into thin ropes, about ½ inch in diameter. Cut the ropes into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Coat with Granulated Sugar: Roll each mint piece in granulated sugar. This adds a sparkle and a subtle crunch that takes these candies to the next level.
- Let Them Dry: Place the mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow them to air dry for at least 12 hours, or until they’re firm to the touch.
- Store and Enjoy: Transfer the dried mints to an airtight container and store at room temperature. They’ll keep fresh and delicious for weeks!
Notes
- Adjusting Texture: If the dough feels too sticky, add a bit more powdered sugar. Conversely, if it’s too dry, a tiny splash of condensed milk will bring it back to life.
- Experiment with Colors: Besides red, try green or even a swirl effect by gently blending two colors.
- Storage Tip: These mints make wonderful gifts! Pack them in decorative tins or jars with festive ribbons for a thoughtful holiday present.
- Flavor Variations: While peppermint is classic, you can experiment with other extracts like vanilla, almond, or even citrus for a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (no baking required)
- Category: Candy, Dessert
- Method: No-bake, Mixing and Shaping
- Cuisine: American, Holiday Treats
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 mints
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg