Soft Christmas Peppermints: Old-Fashioned Butter Mints with a Festive Twist
Creamy, melt-in-your-mouth peppermint candies with a candy cane swirl—perfect for gifting, decorating, or holiday snacking
Introduction: A Sweet Tradition Worth Reviving
There’s something timeless about butter mints. They’re soft, creamy, and delicately flavored—just the kind of treat that evokes warm memories of holiday gatherings, candy dishes, and handwritten recipe cards. These Soft Christmas Peppermints are a festive take on the classic butter mint, with a hint of peppermint and a charming red-and-white candy cane twist.
They’re easy to make, fun to shape, and perfect for gifting. Whether you’re filling jars for friends, decorating your dessert table, or just sneaking a few between sips of cocoa, these mints are guaranteed to bring holiday cheer.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s take a closer look at what makes these mints so irresistible:
Base Ingredients:
- Butter (½ cup, softened)
Adds richness and creates a smooth, creamy texture. - Powdered sugar (3 cups)
Sweetens and firms up the dough—essential for that melt-in-your-mouth feel. - Heavy whipping cream (2 tbsp)
Adds moisture and helps bind the dough. - Peppermint extract (¼ tsp, or to taste)
Adds a cool, refreshing flavor—adjust to your preference.
Optional: Use spearmint or vanilla extract for a twist.
Color & Finish:
- Red gel food coloring
Creates a vibrant candy cane effect—gel works best for bold color without thinning the dough.
Optional: Use green for a holly-inspired look or blue for a wintery theme.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Parchment paper
- Knife or dough cutter
Optional: Use gloves when handling food coloring to avoid staining.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Whip the Butter
In a mixing bowl:
- Whip softened butter until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
This creates a smooth base for your mints.
Tip: Use room temperature butter for best results.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Gradually add:
- Heavy whipping cream
- Powdered sugar
- Peppermint extract
Beat until the mixture becomes firm, smooth, and dough-like.
It should be pliable but not sticky.
Optional: Chill for 10–15 minutes if the dough is too soft to handle.
Step 3: Color and Shape
Divide the dough:
- Leave three-quarters white
- Color one-quarter with red gel food coloring
Roll each portion into long, thin ropes.
Twist the red and white ropes together to create a candy cane swirl.
Cut into small pieces or pinch off to form individual mints.
Presentation Tip: Shape into hearts, stars, or wreaths for extra charm.
Step 4: Dry and Set
Place mints on parchment paper.
Let air dry for 1–2 hours until the surface firms up.
Cut into bite-sized pieces if needed.
Let dry for an additional 24 hours to fully set.
Tip: Store in a cool, dry place—avoid humidity to prevent stickiness.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect for:
- Holiday dessert tables
- Candy jars and dishes
- Homemade gift boxes
- Party favors
Serve with:
- Hot cocoa or peppermint mocha
- Sugar cookies
- Gingerbread cake
- Eggnog or mulled wine
Yields:
- About 40 mints
Tip: Package in cellophane bags with ribbon or in mini mason jars for gifting.
Variations to Try
Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:
Spearmint Swirl
Use green food coloring and spearmint extract.
Chocolate Mint
Add cocoa powder and drizzle with melted chocolate.
Berry Mint
Use strawberry extract and pink coloring for a fruity twist.
Vegan Version
Use plant-based butter and dairy-free cream.
Mini Shapes
Use small cookie cutters to create festive shapes.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Make-Ahead: Prepare up to 1 week in advance.
- Refrigerate: Not recommended—store at room temperature.
- Shelf Life: Keeps for 2–3 weeks in airtight container.
Tip: Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Nutrition Notes (Per Mint, ~1 of 40)
- Calories: ~60
- Protein: ~0g
- Carbohydrates: ~8g
- Fat: ~3g
- Sugar: ~7g
- Sodium: ~5mg
- Fiber: ~0g
These mints are:
- Soft and creamy
- Sweet and refreshing
- Easy to make
- Perfect for gifting
Final Thoughts
These Soft Christmas Peppermints are more than just a treat—they’re a celebration of holiday nostalgia and homemade charm. Whether you’re making them with kids, gifting them to friends, or simply enjoying them with a warm drink, they’re guaranteed to bring joy to your season.