Name: Soft Christmas Peppermints: Easy Gluten-Free Holiday Delights
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk (Provides creaminess and sweetness; do not substitute with powdered milk.); 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter (Adds richness and buttery flavor.); 4 cups Powdered Sugar (Acts as the primary sweetener and structure.); 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (Infuses the mints with refreshing flavor.); 1 drop Food Coloring (Optional for customizing color.)

As I rummaged through my grandmother’s old recipe box, I stumbled upon a gem that instantly took me back to cozy holiday evenings—the enchanting Soft Christmas Peppermints. These vibrant little mints evoke all the joy and warmth of the season, and the best part? They require no baking, making them an effortless addition to your festive repertoire. Gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly, these confections melt in your mouth with a creamy texture that dances with refreshing peppermint. Ideal for gifting or as a delightful centerpiece on your holiday table, they allow you to spread cheer with minimal fuss. Have you ever wondered how such simple ingredients can create something so magical? Let’s unravel the secret together and make this holiday season extra sweet!

Why are Soft Christmas Peppermints special?

Irresistible melt-in-your-mouth texture: These Soft Christmas Peppermints deliver a creamy smoothness that’s utterly delightful, reminding you of cherished holiday traditions.
No-bake convenience: Perfect for busy schedules, this recipe eliminates the need for baking, allowing anyone to whip them up with ease.
Gluten-free and vegetarian: Inclusive for all, these festive treats cater to various dietary needs without compromising flavor.
Versatile flavor options: Feel free to experiment with extracts; swap peppermint for vanilla or orange for a unique twist! For some inspiration, check out my Christmas Kitchen Sink for more festive ideas.
Perfect for gifting: Present them in beautiful packaging to spread cheer among friends and family during the holiday season.
Easy storage and make-ahead: Keep them in an airtight container or freeze for up to three months—festive treats, ready when you are!

Soft Christmas Peppermints Ingredients

Dive into the delightful world of making Soft Christmas Peppermints with these essential ingredients.

For the Peppermint Mixture

Sweetened Condensed Milk – Provides creaminess and sweetness; do not substitute with powdered milk as it lacks moisture.
Butter – Adds richness and buttery flavor; use unsalted butter for the best results.
Powdered Sugar – Acts as the primary sweetener and structure; substitutions are not recommended.
Peppermint Extract – Infuses the mints with refreshing flavor; some might prefer to substitute with vanilla or almond extracts for a twist.

For the Festive Touch

Food Coloring (optional) – Customizes the color of your mints for a holiday presentation; use as desired.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re all set to whip up some magical Soft Christmas Peppermints that will surely sweeten your festive gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Christmas Peppermints

Step 1: Prepare the Base Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine one can of sweetened condensed milk with ½ cup of softened unsalted butter. Using an electric mixer, blend them until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. The mixture should be well-incorporated without any lumps, forming the perfect base for your Soft Christmas Peppermints.

Step 2: Incorporate the Sugar
Gradually sift in 4 cups of powdered sugar while mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Continue to mix for 3 to 5 minutes until the mixture thickens and takes on a dough-like consistency. The dough should be soft yet workable, ensuring it holds its shape once shaped into mints.

Step 3: Add Flavor and Color
Once the dough is ready, stir in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract for that classic holiday flavor. If you want to customize the mints, add a few drops of food coloring at this stage and fold it in until the color is evenly distributed. This step should take just 1 to 2 minutes, ensuring a delightful minty and festive hue in your Soft Christmas Peppermints.

Step 4: Chill the Dough
If the dough feels too soft to handle, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes. This will firm up the mixture, making it easier to shape into mints. After chilling, the dough should be manageable yet pliable, ready for the next delicious step.

Step 5: Shape the Mints
Once chilled, scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into 1-inch balls between your palms. If you prefer festive shapes, use cookie cutters to form your Soft Christmas Peppermints and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Ensure they are spaced apart for even setting and visual appeal.

Step 6: Allow to Set
Let the mints set at room temperature for about 1 hour, allowing them to firm up and hold their shape. You’ll know they are ready when they feel solid to the touch and are slightly glossy. This setting time is crucial to achieving the delightful texture that makes Soft Christmas Peppermints so irresistible.

Step 7: Store the Mints
Once set, carefully transfer the Soft Christmas Peppermints to an airtight container for storage. They can be enjoyed for up to one week at room temperature. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them for a firmer texture or freezing them for up to 3 months. Your holiday treats will be ready whenever you have a sweet craving!

What to Serve with Soft Christmas Peppermints

Imagine the twinkling lights of the season casting a warm glow as you create a festive spread to complement your delightful mints.

Rich Hot Chocolate: Complements the mint’s freshness with creamy chocolate bliss, perfect for those cozy winter evenings by the fire.
Gingerbread Cookies: The spices of gingerbread pair beautifully with peppermint for a classic holiday treat that evokes nostalgia.
Peppermint Bark: Enhance the minty experience with layers of chocolate and crushed peppermint; it’s a delightful double-take on flavor!
Lavender Lemonade: A refreshing citrus contrast that brightens your holiday treats, perfect for balancing sweetness with a floral twist.
Classic Eggnog: Creamy and indulgent, eggnog adds a traditional touch to your festive table while echoing the richness of the mints.
Mini Fruit Tarts: The buttery crust and fresh fruit provide a lovely textural contrast, enhancing the melt-in-your-mouth sensation of the mints.
Sparkling Water: For a light, refreshing beverage that cleanses the palate, sparkling water with a twist of lime or lemon complements mint flavors effortlessly.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Top with Soft Christmas Peppermints for an enchanting dessert blend, allowing the cool mint flavors to meld with creamy sweetness.
Festive Fruit Salad: Bright, colorful fruit brings a burst of freshness to the table, balancing the richness of your holiday treats beautifully.

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 one week; this keeps them deliciously soft and flavorful.

Fridge: For a firmer texture, refrigerate the mints in a sealed container; they will stay fresh and tasty for the same duration of up to one week.

Freezer: To extend their shelf life, freeze the mints for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container once firm.

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat these treats; simply enjoy them as they are, straight from the fridge or freezer, for a delightful holiday snack!

Expert Tips for Soft Christmas Peppermints

Quality Ingredients Matter: Use high-quality sweetened condensed milk and fresh peppermint extract to elevate the flavor of your Soft Christmas Peppermints.
Dough Consistency: If your dough is too sticky during shaping, chill it for an extra 5-10 minutes to achieve the right texture and ease of handling.
Color with Care: When adding food coloring, start with a few drops and mix thoroughly. You can always add more if you desire a bolder hue!
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the powdered sugar in gradually and don’t overmix once incorporated to maintain that special melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to replace peppermint extract with almond or vanilla for delicious flavor variations that still capture the holiday spirit.

Soft Christmas Peppermints Variations

Customize your Soft Christmas Peppermints with these fun and festive ideas that will tickle your taste buds!

Flavor Switch-Up: Replace peppermint extract with almond or vanilla for a different flavor profile.
Citrus Twist: Add orange or lemon extract to introduce a lively citrus note that brightens the mints.
Crunchy Delight: Fold in crushed peppermint candies or chocolate chips for added texture and surprise in every bite.
Decadent Chocolate: Dip half of each mint in melted chocolate for a rich, indulgent treat that pairs beautifully with peppermint.
Colorful Creations: Use different food colorings to create a rainbow of mints, perfect for holiday parties!
Nutty Addition: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the dough for a delightful crunch and earthy flavor. Imagine the satisfying crunch blending with the creamy texture; it’s a gift for the palate!
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spicy note that complements the cool peppermint.

As you embark on your candy-making adventure, feel free to explore these variations, and for extra inspiration, don’t forget to check out these delightful recipes, including my festive Christmas Kitchen Sink. Enjoy the magic of the season with every sweet bite!

Make Ahead Options

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are a perfect holiday treat to make ahead of time, allowing busy home cooks to enjoy more quality moments with loved ones. You can prepare the peppermint dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the steps to mix and chill the dough, then tightly wrap it in plastic wrap before refrigerating. If you’re making them even further in advance, the shaped mints can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months—just remember to layer parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, let them sit at room temperature for about an hour until they firm up again, and you’ll have the same delightful taste with minimal effort!

Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my ingredients are ripe or good to use?
Absolutely! For your Soft Christmas Peppermints, freshness is key. Use sweetened condensed milk that is within its expiration date and unopened, and check for any discoloration or off smells. Your butter should be fresh (preferably unsalted) and soft enough to cream easily. If using peppermint extract, ensure that it too is within the best-by date and has a strong, fresh minty scent.

How should I store my Soft Christmas Peppermints?
Very good question! Store your Soft Christmas Peppermints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you would like them to be firmer, you can refrigerate them for the same duration. Just remember that chilling changes their texture, making them wonderfully cool and refreshing!

Can I freeze Soft Christmas Peppermints?
Absolutely! To freeze your mints, first, allow them to set at room temperature. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, and place them in the freezer until solid. Transfer the frozen mints to an airtight container or resealable freezer bag, and they will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop them straight from the freezer into your mouth!

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If you find your dough is too sticky to handle, no worries! Chill it in the refrigerator for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. This will firm it up. If it’s still difficult to work with, you can also lightly dust your hands with powdered sugar when shaping the mints. This will make handling the mixture much easier!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes, definitely! The Soft Christmas Peppermints are gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly, making them inclusive for various dietary needs. However, be cautious if anyone has a dairy allergy, as the recipe contains butter and sweetened condensed milk. You could experiment with dairy-free butter alternatives—just make sure they’re suitable for your specific dietary constraints!

Can I change the flavor of my Soft Christmas Peppermints?
Very much! One of the delightful aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap peppermint extract for vanilla, almond, or even orange extract to create unique flavor profiles. For added texture, consider incorporating crushed peppermint candies into the dough as well. Enjoy the journey of flavor experimentation!