Soft Christmas Peppermints: A Sweet Holiday Delight

There’s something magical about the holiday season, and nothing captures that festive spirit quite like the classic sweetness of peppermint treats. These Soft Christmas Peppermints are the perfect combination of holiday cheer and indulgent flavor. Made with just a few simple ingredients, they offer a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a fun treat to enjoy with family or a homemade gift to share, these homemade peppermints are a delightful addition to your holiday traditions.

This recipe is incredibly easy to follow and doesn’t require any baking, making it a fantastic last-minute holiday project. The peppermint extract infuses each piece with a refreshing flavor, while the corn syrup ensures the dough comes together smoothly and forms a perfect consistency. You can even customize them with food coloring for a festive touch that matches the holiday season. These soft peppermints are not only delicious but also a fun way to get into the holiday spirit with loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple Ingredients

Made with just four basic ingredients, these Soft Christmas Peppermints are easy to make and don’t require complicated steps or specialty tools.

2. No Baking Required

Unlike traditional peppermint candies, these don’t need to be baked, making them a perfect no-fuss holiday treat that even beginners can master.

3. Customizable

You can easily add food coloring to match your holiday theme, making these treats as festive as they are delicious.

4. Perfect for Gifting

These peppermints are a great homemade gift idea. Package them up in a cute jar or box for a thoughtful, personalized present.

5. Soft and Chewy

Unlike hard peppermint candies, these have a soft, chewy texture that makes them more enjoyable and easier to eat, especially for kids.

Ingredients

• Powdered sugar
• Light corn syrup
• Water
• Peppermint extract
• Food coloring (optional)

Variations

While this recipe is already perfect as is, there are several ways to customize it to your taste:

1. Add a Chocolate Layer

For a chocolatey twist, you can dip the finished peppermint pieces into melted chocolate before they dry. This creates a delightful peppermint patty-like treat.

2. Use Different Extracts

Although peppermint is traditional, you can try substituting the peppermint extract with other flavors like wintergreen, vanilla, or almond for a unique flavor profile.

3. Make Them Smaller or Larger

Adjust the size of your peppermints depending on your preference. You can make them bite-sized or create larger shapes for a more substantial treat.

4. Colorful Themes

Incorporate multiple colors and create a rainbow of soft peppermints. This is especially fun for Christmas or other holiday celebrations.

5. Coat in Powdered Sugar

Once the peppermints have dried, lightly dust them with powdered sugar to prevent sticking and give them a polished, professional look.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, corn syrup, water, and peppermint extract. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed and a dough starts to form.

Step 2: Add Food Coloring (Optional)

If you want to make your peppermints colorful, divide the dough into portions and add a few drops of food coloring to each portion. Mix well until the color is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Shape the Dough

Roll the dough into small balls or use a cookie cutter to shape the dough into festive designs such as circles, hearts, or stars.

Step 4: Let Them Dry

Place the shaped peppermints on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Allow them to dry at room temperature for about 24 hours, or until firm.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once dried, your soft Christmas peppermints are ready to enjoy! Serve them at holiday gatherings, give them as gifts, or enjoy them as a sweet treat during the season.

Tips for Making the Recipe

1. Ensure the Dough Is Well-Mixed

The key to a smooth, uniform dough is making sure all the ingredients are fully combined. Don’t be afraid to use your hands to knead the dough to ensure it’s cohesive.

2. Use Parchment Paper

When shaping the peppermints, always use parchment paper to avoid sticking and make for easy cleanup.

3. Don’t Rush the Drying Time

For the best texture, let the peppermints dry completely for 24 hours. This allows them to set and become firm without being sticky.

4. Use Gel Food Coloring

If you want bright, vibrant colors, use gel food coloring instead of liquid food coloring, as it won’t add extra moisture to the dough.

5. Make the Dough in Batches

If you’re making multiple colors, divide the dough into small batches and work with one color at a time. This prevents mixing colors and ensures even distribution.

How to Serve

Soft Christmas Peppermints are perfect for serving at holiday parties or gatherings. Present them in decorative jars or boxes for a fun, festive gift. They also pair wonderfully with hot chocolate, coffee, or tea. Serve them as a sweet after-dinner treat or snack throughout the day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your peppermints have dried completely, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Be sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

While freezing isn’t necessary, you can freeze the peppermints for up to a month if you’d like to preserve them for later use. Just make sure they’re fully dried before storing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating

These soft peppermints are best enjoyed at room temperature. No reheating is necessary.

FAQs

1. Can I use maple syrup instead of corn syrup?

While corn syrup is the traditional choice, maple syrup can be used as a substitute for a different flavor. Keep in mind that it might affect the texture slightly.

2. Do I have to use food coloring?

No, food coloring is optional. The peppermint treats will still taste great without it.

3. Can I make these without peppermint extract?

You can substitute the peppermint extract with other extracts like wintergreen, vanilla, or almond, depending on your flavor preferences.

4. How do I prevent the peppermints from sticking together?

Ensure the peppermints are fully dried before storing them, and consider dusting them lightly with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.

5. Can I make the dough in advance?

Yes, you can make the dough a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge before shaping and drying the peppermints.

6. Can I shape these into candy canes?

Yes, you can roll the dough into candy cane shapes for a festive holiday treat.

7. Are these peppermints gluten-free?

Yes, these peppermints are gluten-free since they are made with powdered sugar and do not contain any flour.

8. Can I use regular sugar instead of powdered sugar?

Powdered sugar is recommended for this recipe as it dissolves easily and gives the dough the right texture. Granulated sugar may not work as well.

9. How can I make the peppermints firmer?

If you want firmer peppermints, allow them to dry for longer or reduce the amount of water or corn syrup in the recipe.

10. Can I add a bit of chocolate to these peppermints?

Yes, dipping the finished peppermints in melted chocolate is a delicious variation!

Conclusion

Soft Christmas Peppermints are a fun, easy, and festive treat that’s perfect for holiday celebrations. With just a few ingredients and no baking required, you can make these delightful little candies in no time. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday party, gifting them to loved ones, or simply enjoying them with a cup of tea, these soft peppermint candies are sure to bring joy to your season. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and create these delicious treats to sweeten your Christmas!

Print