Prep Time: ~15 minutes
Cook Time: ~15–20 minutes
Total Time: ~30–35 minutes
Yield: ~20–24 candies
Introduction
Soft Christmas Peppermints are soft, melt-in-your-mouth holiday candies with refreshing mint flavor and a tender, chewy texture. Unlike hard peppermints, these sweets are delightfully soft and perfect for gifting, dessert trays, or cozy winter snacking. Their festive red and white swirls or speckles make them a cheerful treat for the season.
Why These Treats Are So Popular
These soft peppermints capture the cool, refreshing taste of classic candy but in a softer, more indulgent form. They’re simple to make, fun to customize with colors or mix-ins, and bring vibrant holiday flavor to every bite. Perfect for gifting or enjoying with a warm drink by the fire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
- Corn syrup or light corn sweetener
- Butter (softened)
- Peppermint extract
- Red food coloring (optional for festive look)
- A splash of milk or cream (to adjust texture)
The Art of Soft Peppermints
Soft Christmas Peppermints are about texture and flavor balance: smooth, sweet candy with a strong mint aroma. Gentle cooking and careful mixing create a pliable dough that sets softly instead of hardening. If adding color, swirl it into the dough for festive appearance without separating texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare & Mix
In a large bowl, combine powdered sugar with a touch of milk or cream.
Add softened butter and corn syrup, then mix until crumbly.
2. Add Flavoring
Stir in peppermint extract for cool mint flavor.
3. Form the Dough
If desired, divide dough and add a few drops of red food coloring to one portion.
Swirl colored and plain portions together lightly for a festive look — do not overmix.
4. Shape Candies
Roll the dough into small balls or shape into soft log pieces.
Flatten slightly for traditional “melt-in-your-mouth” bites.
5. Set & Dry
Place on a parchment-lined tray.
Let candies sit at room temperature until set — about 15–20 minutes.
6. Serve
Serve soft peppermints on a candy tray or package them in festive bags for gifting.
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh peppermint extract for bold, cool flavor.
- Add color gently — too much mix can affect texture.
- Adjust softness with small splashes of milk or more powdered sugar until the dough feels pliable.
- Store in a cool, dry place to maintain soft texture.
Creative Variations
- Chocolate Peppermint: dip half of each candy in melted chocolate.
- Candy Cane Style: swirl red and white dough for a classic look.
- Mint & Vanilla: add a touch of vanilla extract for extra depth.
- Crushed Topping: sprinkle a few crushed candy canes on top before setting.
- Ribbon Peppermints: roll into ropes and twist for a festive ribbon look.
Storage & Freshness
Store soft Christmas peppermints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Avoid humid environments, which can make them too sticky.
Conclusion
Soft Christmas Peppermints are tender, refreshing, and full of holiday spirit. With cool mint flavor and festive appearance, they’re easy to make and delightful to share — perfect for candy plates, gifts, or simply enjoying by the fireside this season
