Soft Christmas Peppermints are a delightful holiday treat that brings the classic flavor of peppermint in a soft, melt-in-your-mouth form. These bite-sized sweets are perfect for gifting, decorating dessert tables, or simply enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa. Unlike store-bought hard peppermints, these homemade ones have a creamy texture that dissolves effortlessly. Whether you’re making them for a festive gathering or as an edible gift, this recipe is simple yet elegant.
Why You’ll Love These Soft Christmas Peppermints
- Easy to Make – With just a few ingredients and no baking required, these candies come together quickly.
- Customizable – You can adjust the flavor, shape, and color to fit your holiday theme.
- Perfect for Gifting – Pack them in decorative boxes or mason jars for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Kid-Friendly – A fun recipe that children can help with, from rolling to shaping.
Ingredients Notes
- Powdered Sugar – Provides the structure and soft texture of the mints.
- Cream Cheese – Gives the mints a creamy consistency and rich flavor.
- Peppermint Extract – The star ingredient that delivers the signature holiday taste.
- Food Coloring – Optional, but red and green add a festive touch.
- Granulated Sugar – Used for rolling to prevent sticking and add a light crunch.
How To Make These Soft Christmas Peppermints
Step 1: Prepare the Base
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and mix until a thick dough forms. Stir in the peppermint extract to incorporate the flavor evenly.
Step 2: Add Color and Shape
Divide the dough if you plan to use multiple colors. Add a few drops of food coloring to each portion and knead until evenly mixed. Roll small portions into balls and press them down with a fork or mold them into festive shapes.
Step 3: Coat and Set
Roll the shaped mints in granulated sugar to prevent sticking and give a light crunch. Arrange them on a parchment-lined tray and let them air-dry for several hours until firm.
Storage Options
Proper storage is key to keeping your Soft Christmas Peppermints fresh, soft, and full of their delightful minty flavor. Follow these storage guidelines to extend their shelf life and maintain their perfect texture.
Room Temperature Storage
- Airtight Container: Store the peppermint candies in an airtight container at room temperature. This prevents them from drying out or becoming too sticky.
- Layering with Parchment Paper: If stacking them, place parchment or wax paper between layers to avoid sticking.
- Away from Heat and Sunlight: Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources to prevent melting or changes in texture.
- Shelf Life: When stored properly, soft peppermints can last up to 2 weeks at room temperature.
Refrigerator Storage
- Best for Long-Term Freshness: If you want to keep them fresh for longer, refrigeration is a great option.
- Sealed Container: Place the peppermints in a sealed container to prevent moisture absorption, which could make them sticky or hard.
- Chilling Time: These treats can stay fresh in the fridge for 3–4 weeks.
Freezing for Extended Storage
- Ideal for Large Batches: Freezing is the best method if you make these ahead of the holiday season.
- Proper Packaging: Store the peppermints in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container with parchment paper between layers.
- Defrosting Process: Let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to restore their soft texture.
- Freezer Shelf Life: They can last 2–3 months in the freezer.
Variations and Substitutions
Soft Christmas Peppermints are easy to customize, making them a versatile holiday treat. Here are some exciting variations and ingredient swaps to try!
Flavor Variations
- Spearmint Version: Swap peppermint extract for spearmint extract to give the candies a milder, sweeter minty taste.
- Cinnamon Twist: Replace peppermint extract with cinnamon oil for a warm, festive flavor.
- Vanilla Peppermints: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a milder, creamy undertone.
Color Customizations
- Classic Red and White: Use red food coloring for a traditional Christmas look.
- Green Peppermints: Add green food coloring to give them a festive twist.
- Swirled Effect: Create a marbled effect by lightly swirling different colors together.
Texture and Sweetness Adjustments
- Softer Peppermints: Add an extra tablespoon of cream for an even melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Less Sweet Version: Reduce powdered sugar slightly for a more balanced sweetness.
- Crunchier Peppermints: Let them sit uncovered for a few extra hours before storing to firm them up.
Dairy-Free or Vegan Alternative
- Swap Butter: Use plant-based butter to make them dairy-free.
- Non-Dairy Milk: Replace regular milk with coconut, almond, or oat milk.
These variations allow you to tweak the Soft Christmas Peppermints to suit different preferences while keeping the holiday spirit alive! Let me know if you need more modifications.
Conclusion
Soft Christmas Peppermints are a simple yet elegant addition to any holiday celebration. Their creamy texture, refreshing peppermint flavor, and festive appearance make them a must-have treat. Whether you’re making them for family, friends, or as a personal indulgence, these mints are sure to become a holiday favorite. Try customizing them with different flavors or dipping them in chocolate for an extra-special touch!