Introduction to Soft Christmas Peppermints
As the holiday season approaches, I find myself reminiscing about the sweet treats that bring joy to our gatherings. Soft Christmas Peppermints are one of those delightful confections that melt in your mouth, making them a perfect addition to any festive celebration. They’re not just easy to make; they also add a personal touch to your holiday treats. Whether you’re a busy mom juggling work and family or a professional looking to impress loved ones, this recipe is a quick solution that will surely spread cheer and warmth around your table.
Why You’ll Love This Soft Christmas Peppermints
These Soft Christmas Peppermints are a holiday dream come true! They’re incredibly easy to whip up, taking just 15 minutes of your time. Plus, they require no baking, which means less mess and more fun. The taste? Oh, it’s a delightful blend of sweet and minty that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Perfect for busy days, these candies are a simple way to spread holiday cheer without the stress!
Ingredients for Soft Christmas Peppermints
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Soft Christmas Peppermints. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Powdered Sugar: This is the base of your candies, giving them that sweet, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Light Corn Syrup: This ingredient adds sweetness and helps keep the candies soft and chewy.
- Water: A simple addition that helps combine the ingredients into a smooth dough.
- Peppermint Extract: The star of the show! This gives your candies that refreshing minty flavor that screams holiday cheer.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors beautifully.
- Red Food Coloring (Optional): If you want to add a festive touch, a few drops of red food coloring can make your candies pop with holiday spirit.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy candy-making!
How to Make Soft Christmas Peppermints
Making Soft Christmas Peppermints is a delightful process that brings the holiday spirit right into your kitchen. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of these sweet treats ready to share in no time!
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. In it, combine the powdered sugar, light corn syrup, water, peppermint extract, and salt. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything together. You want to create a sticky dough that holds together well. If you find it too dry, add a tiny bit more water. This is where the magic begins!
Step 2: Knead the Dough
Once your ingredients are combined, it’s time to knead the dough. Dust your hands with a little powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Knead the dough for about 2-3 minutes until it’s smooth and pliable. This step is crucial because it helps develop the right texture for your Soft Christmas Peppermints. Trust me, the effort is worth it!
Step 3: Add Color (Optional)
If you want to add a festive flair, divide the dough into two portions. Take one portion and add a few drops of red food coloring. Knead it again until the color is evenly distributed. This step is optional, but it makes your candies look extra special. Plus, who doesn’t love a pop of color during the holidays?
Step 4: Shape the Candies
Now comes the fun part! Roll small pieces of dough into balls, about the size of a marble. Then, gently flatten them to create the classic peppermint shape. If you’re feeling creative, you can even make little swirls by combining the red and white dough. Each candy will be unique, just like your holiday celebrations!
Step 5: Dry the Candies
Once shaped, place your candies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them dry for at least 24 hours. This drying time is essential for achieving that perfect soft texture. After they’re dry, store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. You’ll be amazed at how these little treats can brighten up your holiday gatherings!
Tips for Success
- Use a sifter for the powdered sugar to avoid lumps in your dough.
- Keep your hands dusted with powdered sugar while shaping to prevent sticking.
- Experiment with different flavors like vanilla or almond extract for a twist.
- Make a double batch to share with friends and family; they’ll love you for it!
- Store in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness and texture.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients. A sturdy pot can work in a pinch.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For mixing the dough. A sturdy fork can also do the trick.
- Parchment Paper: To line your baking sheet. Wax paper is a suitable alternative.
- Measuring Cups: For accurate ingredient measurements. You can use a kitchen scale if needed.
Variations
- Chocolate Peppermint: Add cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolatey twist that pairs beautifully with the mint.
- Vegan Option: Substitute light corn syrup with agave syrup for a vegan-friendly version of these Soft Christmas Peppermints.
- Flavor Infusions: Experiment with different extracts like orange or almond for a unique flavor profile.
- Nutty Delight: Fold in finely chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the dough for a surprising spicy twist!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Soft Christmas Peppermints with a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
- Serve them on a festive platter alongside gingerbread cookies for a delightful dessert spread.
- Wrap them in clear cellophane and tie with a ribbon for charming holiday gifts.
- Display them in a decorative jar as a centerpiece for your holiday table.
FAQs about Soft Christmas Peppermints
As you embark on your journey to create these delightful Soft Christmas Peppermints, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries that can help you along the way!
Can I make Soft Christmas Peppermints ahead of time?
Absolutely! These candies can be made several days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They actually taste even better after a day or two as the flavors meld together.
What if I don’t have peppermint extract?
No worries! You can substitute it with other extracts like vanilla or almond for a different flavor. Just remember, it won’t have that classic minty taste, but it will still be delicious!
How should I store my Soft Christmas Peppermints?
Keep your candies in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid storing them in the fridge, as the moisture can affect their texture. A cool, dry place is ideal!
Can I use different colors for my Soft Christmas Peppermints?
Of course! Feel free to get creative with food coloring. You can make them all red, or even swirl different colors together for a festive look. The sky’s the limit!
How long do these candies last?
When stored properly, Soft Christmas Peppermints can last for up to two weeks. Just be sure to keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain their delightful texture.
Final Thoughts
Creating Soft Christmas Peppermints is more than just making a treat; it’s about crafting memories that will linger long after the holidays are over. The joy of sharing these melt-in-your-mouth candies with family and friends is truly heartwarming. Each bite is a reminder of the love and care that goes into homemade goodies. Plus, the simplicity of this recipe means you can whip them up even on the busiest days. So, gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and let the holiday spirit fill your kitchen. Happy candy-making, and may your holidays be sweet and bright!
Print
Soft Christmas Peppermints: Delight Your Holiday Treats!
- Total Time: 24 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 30 candies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft Christmas Peppermints are a delightful holiday treat that melt in your mouth, perfect for sharing with family and friends during the festive season.
Ingredients
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Red food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, corn syrup, water, peppermint extract, and salt.
- Mix until a dough forms, then knead until smooth.
- If desired, divide the dough and add red food coloring to one portion.
- Roll the dough into small balls and shape them into peppermint candies.
- Let the candies dry for at least 24 hours before serving.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- These can be made ahead of time for holiday gatherings.
- Adjust the peppermint extract to taste for a stronger flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 candy
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg