The first snowfall of December always puts me in a festive mood, and one chilly morning a craving for something sweet, minty, and a little magical began to bloom. I wanted a treat that captured the joy of the season without taking hours in the kitchen.

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That’s when an old family recipe for soft Christmas peppermint candies drifted into my thoughts, the kind that melt on your tongue and fill the room with holiday cheer.

I cleared a spot on the counter, pulled out butter, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract, and got to work. The process felt playful—the butter whipped to a fluffy cream, powdered sugar dusting the counter like fresh snow, and the peppermint scent filling the air. Watching the dough come together was a quiet joy, soft yet firm enough to shape into delicate candies.

As I twisted the red and white ropes and pinched them into tiny mints, I imagined sharing them with friends over hot cocoa or tucking them into festive treat bags. The bright swirls, creamy texture, and unmistakable peppermint aroma made the experience feel truly special, a small but joyful ritual that brings warmth and smiles every season.

Short Description

Soft Christmas Peppermints are creamy, melt-in-your-mouth candies with a festive red-and-white swirl, perfect for holiday gifting, cozy snacking, or decorating dessert tables.

Key Ingredients

½ cup butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
2 tbsp heavy whipping cream
¼ tsp peppermint extract
Red gel food coloring

Tools Needed

Large mixing bowl
Hand mixer or stand mixer
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Parchment paper or silicone mat

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Beat the Butter
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy. This aerates the butter and creates the creamy base for the mints.

Step 2: Mix in the Rest
Gradually add heavy cream, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract. Continue mixing until the dough is firm, smooth, and easy to handle. The texture should balance softness with enough structure to roll.

Step 3: Divide and Color
Split the dough into two portions. Leave roughly ¾ of it white and color the remaining ¼ with red gel food coloring. Adjust the color to your preferred vibrancy.

Step 4: Roll and Twist
Roll each portion into thin ropes. Twist a red and a white rope together gently, then pinch off small sections to form individual mints. This creates the classic peppermint swirl.

Step 5: Dry and Set
Place the shaped mints on parchment paper and allow them to air dry for 1–2 hours. Cut into bite-sized pieces and let them dry for a full 24 hours for optimal texture, firm outside while soft inside.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft, creamy texture that melts in your mouth

Festive red-and-white presentation perfect for holidays

Quick and simple ingredients you likely have at home

Fun hands-on activity for kids and adults

Flexible to add flavor twists or adjust peppermint intensity

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Dough Too Sticky
If your dough sticks to hands or surfaces, it may be too warm.
Solution: Chill the dough for 10–15 minutes, or lightly dust your hands and work surface with powdered sugar to make shaping easier.

Ropes Losing Shape
Twisted ropes may flatten or lose definition during shaping.
Solution: Work gently and avoid stretching too much. Allow the dough to rest for a few minutes if it feels too soft.

Mints Too Hard
Leaving mints out too long or over-drying can make them firm and lose the soft center.
Solution: Stick to the recommended 24-hour drying time and store in an airtight container at room temperature.

Uneven Color Swirls
Red and white may blend too much or appear patchy.
Solution: Knead the red dough evenly and twist gently with the white rope to create clear, distinct swirls.

Peppermint Flavor Too Mild
Some batches may taste less minty than desired.
Solution: Adjust peppermint extract slightly, but add gradually to prevent overpowering sweetness.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Arrange on a festive platter with holiday cookies or fudge

Pair with hot chocolate, coffee, or mulled cider

Package in small gift bags or jars for neighbors and friends

Perfect for buffet-style dessert tables or a cozy night in

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store mints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks

Avoid refrigeration, which can harden the texture

No reheating necessary—best enjoyed at room temperature to maintain softness

FAQs

1. Can I use peppermint oil instead of extract?
Yes, but reduce to ¼–½ tsp as peppermint oil is more concentrated.

2. Can I make them in advance?
Absolutely. Shape and dry them fully; store in an airtight container at room temperature.

3. Can I substitute heavy cream?
You may use half-and-half, but the texture may be slightly less rich.

4. How do I prevent mints from sticking together?
Place parchment or wax paper between layers if storing in a single container.

5. Can I make different color combinations?
Yes! Swap red gel for green or other festive colors for themed treats.

Tips & Tricks

Whip butter thoroughly for the lightest texture

Work on a cool surface to prevent dough softening

Use a toothpick to help create perfect swirls if ropes are small

Recipe Variations

Chocolate Peppermints: Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder to half the dough for a chocolate swirl.

Mini Mints: Roll thinner ropes and cut smaller pieces for bite-sized candies.

Spiced Peppermints: Add ⅛ tsp cinnamon or nutmeg for a subtle holiday twist.

Final Thoughts

Soft Christmas Peppermints bring a playful, festive touch to any holiday gathering. Their creamy texture, peppermint aroma, and vibrant red-and-white swirls make them a joy to make and share. Creating these candies offers a simple, hands-on activity that fills the kitchen with holiday cheer.

With a few ingredients and a little patience, you can craft beautiful, melt-in-your-mouth treats that delight friends and family. These mints capture the spirit of the season in every bite and make the holidays feel a bit sweeter and more magical.

Soft Christmas Peppermints