Hey y'all! If you've never tried making your own mints, you're in for a real treat. These Best Homemade Butter Mints are creamy, melt-in-your-mouth candies that bring a touch of nostalgia to any table. They're perfect for weddings, baby showers, holidays, or just a sweet, satisfying snack any day of the week. Plus, they're so easy and fun to make—let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Best Homemade Butter Mints Recipe
- They’re ultra-creamy and melt in your mouth with every bite.
- Super easy to customize with your favorite colors and flavors.
- Perfect for gifting, parties, or a sweet after-dinner treat.
- Made with simple ingredients you probably already have.
- Fun to make with kids—no baking required!
Ingredients for the Best Homemade Butter Mints
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- Gel food coloring (optional)
How to Make the Best Homemade Butter Mints
Step 1: Cream the Butter
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the sea salt on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
Step 2: Add Sugar and Flavor
Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating on low until incorporated. Mix in the heavy cream and peppermint extract. Beat until a stiff, smooth dough forms.
Step 3: Color and Shape
If you'd like to add colors, divide the dough and knead in gel food coloring as desired. Dust a work surface lightly with powdered sugar, then roll dough into ½-inch thick ropes. Cut ropes into small pieces, about ½ inch each.
Step 4: Dry the Mints
Arrange the mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let the butter mints dry at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or until firm to the touch. (Overnight is best!)
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Your Best Homemade Butter Mints are ready to enjoy! Store as directed below.
Notes on Making the Best Homemade Butter Mints
- For best results, use high-quality powdered sugar to ensure a smooth texture.
- If the dough is sticky, add powdered sugar a tablespoon at a time until manageable.
- Learn more about using gel food coloring for vibrant, even colors.
Best Homemade Butter Mints Variations
- Lemon Mints: Substitute lemon extract for peppermint and tint with yellow food coloring.
- Chocolate-Dipped Mints: Dip dried mints halfway in melted chocolate for an extra-decadent treat.
- Holiday Butter Mints: Use festive colors and flavors (like red/green with cinnamon or wintergreen extract).
Equipment Needed for Homemade Butter Mints
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife or bench scraper
Best Homemade Butter Mints Storage and Shelf Life
Store your butter mints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or refrigerate for up to 1 month. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just thaw before serving.
Serving Recommendations and Pairings for Butter Mints
- Pair with coffee or hot tea after dinner for a sweet finish.
- Serve alongside desserts like brownies, cookies, or fruit platters at parties.
- Package in decorative bags or tins for gifting during holidays or special occasions.
Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Butter Mints
- Use room temperature butter for the creamiest texture (why it matters).
- Knead dough quickly to avoid melting the butter with your hands.
- Let mints dry overnight for the absolute best texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Homemade Butter Mints
- Can I use different extracts for flavor?
- Absolutely! Try vanilla, almond, or lemon extract for a fun twist on classic butter mints.
- My dough is too sticky—what should I do?
- Just add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until it’s easy to handle.
- How long do homemade butter mints need to dry?
- Let them dry for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for the best texture.
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Food coloring (optional)
Instructions
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1In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth.
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2Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated and the mixture is thick.
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3Add the heavy cream, peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the mixture is smooth and pliable.
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4If desired, divide the dough and add food coloring to each portion, kneading until the color is evenly distributed.
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5Roll the dough into small balls or ropes and cut into bite-sized pieces. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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6Allow the butter mints to air dry at room temperature for at least 4 hours or until firm. Store in an airtight container.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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