Name: Soft Christmas Peppermints That Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 can sweetened condensed milk (Do not substitute with powdered milk as it lacks necessary moisture.); 0.5 cup unsalted butter (Use unsalted butter for best results.); 4 cups powdered sugar (Substitutions aren’t recommended unless necessary.); 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (Can be replaced with vanilla or almond for a twist.); food coloring (optional) (Customize mints’ colors for a festive appeal.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I reached into the festive candy jar, a delightful wave of minty nostalgia washed over me, instantly transporting me back to cozy holiday gatherings. The allure of these Soft Christmas Peppermints is undeniable, offering a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience that feels just like home. With their sweet, refreshing peppermint flavor and an exciting twist—no baking required—these gluten-free treats are the perfect addition to your holiday festivities. They’re not only incredibly easy to whip up, making them a stress-free holiday project, but they also make for delightful gifts that will impress family and friends. Ready to add some sparkle and minty cheer to your celebrations? Let’s dive into this simple yet magical recipe!

Why are These Peppermints a Must-Try?

Simplicity: With no baking involved, you can whip up these delightful treats in no time, making them a hassle-free addition to your holiday repertoire.

Creamy Delight: The combination of sweetened condensed milk and butter creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s simply irresistible.

Flavorful Twist: Fresh peppermint extract adds a refreshing zing that will have everyone coming back for more.

Customizable: Feel free to play around with food coloring and flavor variations like vanilla or almond to create your own festive twist.

Perfect for Gifting: Whether it’s for holiday gift baskets or simply to share with loved ones, these Soft Christmas Peppermints will surely leave a lasting impression.

Dive into this easy recipe that sparks joy and brings a taste of tradition to your home. Happy cooking!

Soft Christmas Peppermints Ingredients

For the Base
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – Provides creaminess and sweetness; do not substitute with powdered milk as it lacks necessary moisture.
• Butter – Adds richness and buttery flavor; for best results, use unsalted butter, as margarine may alter taste.

For the Sweetness
• Powdered Sugar – Acts as the primary sweetener, giving structure to the mints; substitutions aren’t recommended unless necessary.

For Flavoring
• Peppermint Extract – Infuses the mints with refreshing mint flavor; can be replaced with vanilla or almond for a different twist.

For Festive Touch
• Food Coloring (optional) – Customizes mints’ colors for a festive appeal; dividing the dough allows for various colored mints.

Get ready to create these heavenly Soft Christmas Peppermints that will brighten your holiday season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Christmas Peppermints

Step 1: Combine Base
In a large mixing bowl, blend 1 can of sweetened condensed milk and ½ cup of softened unsalted butter using a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Ensure the mixture is creamy and well-combined to set the foundation for your Soft Christmas Peppermints.

Step 2: Add Sweetness
Gradually sift in 4 cups of powdered sugar while mixing on low speed, allowing the sugar to incorporate without creating a cloud. Continue mixing for 3-5 minutes until the mixture reaches a thick, dough-like consistency that holds its shape, perfect for shaping later.

Step 3: Infuse Flavor
Stir in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and, if desired, a few drops of food coloring to the dough. Use a spatula to fold the mixture gently until the peppermint flavor and color are evenly distributed, which should take about 1-2 minutes for a vibrant, festive finish.

Step 4: Chill Dough
If the dough feels too soft to handle, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes. This chilling time will help firm up the mixture, making it easier to shape into mints that don’t lose form during the next step.

Step 5: Shape Mints
Once chilled, roll the dough into 1-inch balls using your hands, or use cookie cutters for various shapes. Place the mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart for even drying. This step prepares your Soft Christmas Peppermints for the final setting.

Step 6: Set Mints
Allow the mints to firm up at room temperature for about 1 hour. During this time, they will harden slightly while retaining their creamy texture, making them ready to enjoy or package for gifting.

Step 7: Store
After the mints have set, transfer them to an airtight container, storing them at room temperature for up to 1 week. This will keep your Soft Christmas Peppermints fresh and delightful throughout the holiday season, ready to share or savor!

What to Serve with Soft Christmas Peppermints

Delight in the magic of the holiday season with accompaniments that enhance your festive spirit!

Creamy Hot Cocoa: A warm cup brings out the minty flavor while complementing the soft texture of the mints. Perfect for cozy evenings!
Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The saltiness of pretzels pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the mints, offering a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
Spiced Gingerbread Cookies: These aromatic cookies provide a warm and spicy contrast to the cool freshness of peppermint, enhancing your holiday experience.
Festive Fruit Platter: Bright fruits like strawberries and oranges add a refreshing balance to the rich sweetness of the soft mints and look fabulous on the table.
Peppermint Bark: Layered chocolate front and center, this treat echoes the peppermint flavor, creating a uniform theme that’s irresistible for guests.
Holiday Punch: A drink infused with seasonal spices and fruits can cleanse the palate, making each mint taste even more delightful.

These pairings are not only delicious but also elevate your holiday gatherings, making every moment memorable.

How to Store and Freeze Soft Christmas Peppermints

Room Temperature: Store your Soft Christmas Peppermints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them fresh and ready for immediate enjoyment.

Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate the mints. They will last for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container, ensuring they maintain their delightful flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the mints for up to 3 months. Make sure to place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to firm up before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

Reheating: No reheating is necessary! Simply let the frozen mints sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before serving. Enjoy the creamy peppermint goodness anytime!

Expert Tips for Soft Christmas Peppermints

Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality sweetened condensed milk and unsalted butter to ensure your mints have a rich flavor and creamy texture.
Chill Time: If your dough feels too sticky, refrigerate it for an extra 10-15 minutes. This will make shaping your Soft Christmas Peppermints much easier.
Measuring Flour: When adding powdered sugar, sift it to avoid clumps. This ensures a smooth and uniform dough that holds together well.
Flavor Twists: If you want to experiment, swap peppermint extract with almond or vanilla for unique flavor profiles.
Allergen Check: Always read product labels to ensure your ingredients are gluten-free and meet your dietary needs, especially if gifting.
Gift-Worthy Presentation: Roll your mints in crushed candy canes or colorful sprinkles before they set for a festive touch that’s visually appealing!

Soft Christmas Peppermint Variations

Feel free to elevate your Soft Christmas Peppermints by adding your own creative twist to this already delightful recipe!

Flavor Swap: Replace peppermint extract with almond or vanilla for a unique flavor profile. Each variation brings a whole new dimension to your mints that can surprise even your most seasoned holiday guests.
Colorful Creations: Divide the dough and use different food colorings for a fun, festive look. You can experiment with swirls or layers for a visually stunning presentation that adds an extra touch of holiday cheer.
Crunchy Coating: Roll your shaped mints in crushed peppermint candies or festive sprinkles before allowing them to set. The added crunch complements the creamy texture perfectly, creating an exciting contrast that’s simply irresistible.
Chocolate Drizzle: Melt chocolate and drizzle it over the finished mints for a decadent touch. The combination of rich chocolate and cool peppermint is a match made in holiday heaven!
Citrus Zing: Add a bit of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy twist. This bright zest not only enhances the flavor but also adds a refreshing aroma that invigorates your holiday celebrations.
Spicy Kick: For those who love a little heat, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drop of chili oil. This subtle spice will elevate your mints, providing a fun surprise for anyone brave enough to try them.
Vegan Option: Use coconut cream instead of sweetened condensed milk and coconut oil in place of butter to make these mints vegan-friendly. They’ll still be deliciously creamy and perfect for sharing with everyone!
Stuffed Surprise: Create a surprise inside by rolling the mints around a chocolate ganache or a small dollop of Nutella. When anyone bites in, they’ll experience a delightful burst of flavor that makes these treats even more special.

These variations and substitutions offer a myriad of ways to make the classic Soft Christmas Peppermints your own, while easily adapting to different tastes and dietary needs. Enjoy bringing your own creative touch to this beloved holiday treat!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are ideal for busy home cooks looking to streamline their holiday prep! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first four steps before chilling. Simply mix the sweetened condensed milk, butter, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract, then refrigerate the dough until it’s easier to shape. When you’re ready to serve or gift them, roll the mixture into shapes, set them at room temperature for one hour, and enjoy just as deliciously as if they were made fresh! This way, you’ll save time during the hectic holiday season while still impressing everyone with your homemade treats!

Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! Since there are no fresh fruits in this recipe, the main focus is on selecting high-quality pantry ingredients. For sweetened condensed milk and butter, look for fresh and high-quality brands. Unsalted butter is preferred for ideal flavor control—avoid margarine if possible, as it can alter the taste.

How should I store Soft Christmas Peppermints?
For best results, store your Soft Christmas Peppermints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This helps to maintain their creamy texture and delightful flavor. If you prefer them cooler, they can also be kept in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, which will give them a firmer bite!

Can I freeze these mints, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze the Soft Christmas Peppermints! First, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 30 minutes, until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They will last for up to 3 months! To enjoy, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before serving.

What should I do if the dough is too sticky or soft to shape?
The more the merrier! If you find the dough too soft or sticky, don’t worry! Simply cover the mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for an additional 10-15 minutes. This chilling time will make it much easier to handle and shape into lovely little mints.

Are Soft Christmas Peppermints safe for people with allergies?
Very! These mints are gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly, but it’s always wise to double-check labels for allergens. Ensure that the sweetened condensed milk and butter you use do not contain any gluten or other potential allergens, especially if preparing them as gifts for family and friends.