Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe
Create these delicate and festive soft peppermints to sweeten your holiday season! These melt-in-your-mouth treats are perfect for gifting, decorating, or serving at your Christmas gatherings.
Ingredients
3 cups powdered sugar plus extra for dusting
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
1 tsp peppermint extract adjust to taste
Food coloring red, green, or pastel shades
Red sanding sugar or edible glitter for garnish
Equipment
Silicone candy molds festive shapes like flowers, stars, or snowflakes
Mixing bowl
Hand or stand mixer
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Base Dough
Cream the Base: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.
Add Flavor: Mix in the peppermint extract. Start with 1 teaspoon, taste, and adjust if needed.
Incorporate Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, until a soft, dough-like consistency forms. The mixture should be pliable but not sticky.
Step 2: Add Color
Divide the dough into separate portions based on the colors you want to create.
Add a small amount of food coloring to each portion, kneading until evenly colored. Use pastel red and green for a soft, festive look.
Step 3: Shape the Mints
Dust your silicone candy molds lightly with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
Press small amounts of dough into each mold, smoothing the surface to ensure the shapes are clean and defined.
Carefully pop the mints out of the molds and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Add Finishing Touches
Sprinkle the tops with red sanding sugar or edible glitter for a festive sparkle.
Let the mints air-dry for 12-24 hours to set completely.
Tips for Perfect Mints
Keep the dough covered with plastic wrap while working to prevent it from drying out.
Use gel food coloring for vibrant, consistent shades without altering the texture.
Store the mints in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Time & Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Drying Time: 12-24 hours
Yield: 40-50 mints, depending on mold size