There’s something magical about soft Christmas peppermints, also known as old-fashioned butter mints. These melt-in-your-mouth confections evoke nostalgic memories of holiday gatherings, festive tablescapes, and delightful after-dinner treats. With their creamy texture, subtle buttery flavor, and refreshing peppermint essence, they’re the perfect addition to your holiday treat collection. Making these soft mints from scratch is easier than you think, and this recipe will guide you step by step.
Whether you’re creating them for your family, gifting them to friends, or adding them to your holiday dessert spread, homemade butter mints will bring a touch of sweetness to your Christmas celebrations.
Ingredients Needed
Base Ingredients
- Unsalted Butter: ½ cup, softened
Adds creaminess and richness to the mints. - Powdered Sugar: 3 ½ cups, sifted
Creates a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture. - Heavy Cream: 2 tablespoons
Helps bind the mixture and makes the mints soft. - Peppermint Extract: 1 teaspoon
Provides the signature minty flavor. Adjust to taste. - Salt: A pinch
Balances the sweetness.
Optional Additions
- Food coloring (red, green, or any festive colors)
- Holiday-themed sprinkles for decoration
Tools and Equipment
- Mixing Bowls: For combining ingredients.
- Electric Mixer: To cream the butter and sugar until smooth.
- Spatula: For scraping down the sides of the bowl.
- Parchment Paper: For rolling out the dough and preventing sticking.
- Sharp Knife or Dough Cutter: For cutting the mints into uniform pieces.
- Wire Rack or Baking Sheet: For drying the mints.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Soft Christmas Peppermints
1. Cream the Butter
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth.
- Add the salt and peppermint extract, mixing well to incorporate.
2. Add the Powdered Sugar
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, ½ cup at a time, mixing at low speed to avoid spillage.
- As the mixture thickens, add the heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, to create a pliable dough.
3. Add Food Coloring (Optional)
- Divide the dough into separate portions if using multiple colors.
- Add a few drops of food coloring to each portion and knead until evenly distributed. For festive vibes, use red, green, and white.
4. Shape the Mints
- Roll each portion of dough into long, thin ropes about ½ inch in diameter.
- Use a sharp knife or dough cutter to slice the ropes into small, bite-sized pieces (about ½ inch long).
5. Dry the Mints
- Place the mints in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet or wire rack.
- Allow them to air-dry for at least 12 hours or overnight until firm to the touch.
6. Store the Mints
- Transfer the dried mints to an airtight container.
- Store at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Why This Recipe Works
- Simple Ingredients: Butter, sugar, and cream are pantry staples that come together beautifully.
- No Baking Required: These mints are air-dried, making them an easy no-bake dessert option.
- Customizable: You can adjust the flavor and color to match your preferences and holiday theme.
Creative Variations
1. Chocolate Peppermints
- Add 1–2 teaspoons of cocoa powder to the dough for a hint of chocolate.
- Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the dried mints for extra decadence.
2. Citrus Butter Mints
- Replace the peppermint extract with orange or lemon extract for a citrus twist.
- Add orange or yellow food coloring to match the flavor.
3. Spiced Holiday Mints
- Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, festive flavor.
- Dust the finished mints with cinnamon sugar before drying.
4. Layered Peppermints
- Roll out two different colored portions of dough (e.g., red and white).
- Layer them together, roll into a rope, and cut for a swirled effect.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Dessert Garnish
- Place butter mints alongside holiday cookies, cakes, or pies for an elegant touch.
- After-Dinner Treats
- Serve mints in small bowls at the end of a festive meal as a refreshing palate cleanser.
- Holiday Gifts
- Package the mints in decorative tins or clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon for thoughtful homemade gifts.
- Table Decorations
- Arrange mints in candy dishes or on holiday platters for an inviting centerpiece.
Tips for Success
- Use Soft Butter: Room temperature butter ensures a smooth dough that’s easy to work with.
- Sift the Powdered Sugar: This prevents lumps and creates a silky texture.
- Don’t Overdo the Extract: Start with 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and add more if desired—peppermint can be overpowering.
- Be Patient with Drying: Allow ample time for the mints to set completely before storing to avoid stickiness.
The History of Butter Mints
Butter mints have a long tradition as a Southern classic, often served at weddings, baby showers, and holiday gatherings. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and subtle sweetness have made them a timeless favorite. While they were once labor-intensive to make by hand, today’s recipe simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor or quality.
Storing and Freezing
Storage
- Keep mints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a month.
Freezing
- Freeze mints in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Mint, Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~20 |
| Total Fat | 1g |
| Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Protein | 0g |
For a lighter version, reduce the butter slightly or use low-fat cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?
Yes, but add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
2. What if I don’t have peppermint extract?
You can substitute with spearmint or another mint extract, but start with a smaller amount as these can be stronger.
3. How do I prevent the dough from sticking?
Use parchment paper or lightly dust your work surface with powdered sugar.
4. Can I speed up the drying process?
While air drying is best, you can place the mints in a cool, dry oven (no heat) to help them firm up faster.
5. Can I make these mints dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute butter with vegan margarine and heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
6. Why is my dough too sticky?
This could be due to overly soft butter or not enough powdered sugar. Add more powdered sugar 1 tablespoon at a time until the dough is workable.
Why You’ll Love Soft Christmas Peppermints
- Easy to Make: This no-bake recipe is perfect for beginners and requires just a few basic ingredients.
- Customizable: Change the colors, flavors, and decorations to match your holiday theme.
- Timeless Appeal: These old-fashioned butter mints are a nostalgic treat that never goes out of style.
Soft Christmas peppermints, or old-fashioned butter mints, are the perfect way to add a touch of tradition and charm to your holiday celebrations. With their creamy texture, refreshing flavor, and endless customization options, these homemade mints are sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re gifting them, serving them at a party, or enjoying them yourself, this recipe is a delightful addition to your holiday repertoire.