Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe: A Melt-in-Your-Mouth Holiday Classic
Soft Christmas Peppermints are a delightful, old-fashioned candy that brings the spirit of the holidays to life with every bite. These smooth, creamy peppermint candies are easy to make and require no baking—just a handful of simple ingredients and a little festive flair. With their signature pastel colors and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they’re a staple on holiday cookie platters, gift boxes, and dessert tables. Perfectly soft with a refreshing peppermint flavor, these candies feel nostalgic yet timeless. You can make them ahead of time and even get creative with shapes using piping bags or candy molds. Whether you’re adding them to a holiday spread or wrapping them up as gifts, Soft Christmas Peppermints are a merry, minty treat that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love It
Soft Christmas Peppermints are irresistibly creamy and gently minty, making them perfect for anyone who loves a subtle, sweet treat. They’re simple to prepare, customizable in color, and require no special equipment. Plus, they store well, making them an ideal make-ahead holiday candy.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: About 50 small mints
Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar (plus more if needed)
- ½ tsp peppermint extract
- Food coloring (red, green, or holiday colors)
- Granulated sugar (for rolling or dusting)
Instructions
1. Mix the Base Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until a thick dough forms. Stir in the peppermint extract and continue mixing until fully incorporated.
2. Add Color
Divide the dough into portions if you want multiple colors. Add a few drops of food coloring to each and knead by hand or mix until the color is even. You can create classic red and green or experiment with soft pastels.
3. Shape the Mints
Pinch off small portions of dough and roll them into balls. If desired, roll each ball in granulated sugar to prevent sticking and add sparkle. You can also flatten them slightly with a fork for a traditional look.
4. Chill and Set
Place the mints on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm. Store in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to serve.
Variations
- Flavor Options: Swap peppermint extract for vanilla, almond, or lemon for a new twist.
- Festive Shapes: Use small silicone molds or piping bags with star tips for decorative designs.
- Coating Ideas: Roll in crushed candy canes, cocoa powder, or powdered sugar for different finishes.
- Holiday Colors: Match your theme with gold, silver, or blue food coloring.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper
- Fork or small candy mold (optional)
Nutritional Information (Per Mint)
- Calories: ~35
- Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 0g
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer Friendly: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Make Ahead: Great for holiday prep—make them a week in advance to save time.
My Cooking Experience
With over 4 years in the kitchen, I’ve made countless batches of these nostalgic little candies. They’re a family favorite—easy to make, fun to color, and they never last long on the table. Their simplicity and charm always remind me why classic holiday recipes are so beloved. They’re perfect for kids and adults alike.
Conclusion
Soft Christmas Peppermints are the perfect combination of simplicity, festivity, and flavor. Their soft texture and refreshing mint taste make them an instant classic for the holiday season. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for your own celebration or packaging them as gifts, these mints are a beautiful and delicious way to share the holiday spirit.
Soft Christmas Peppermints
Ingredients
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until a thick dough forms. Stir in the peppermint extract and continue mixing until fully incorporated.
- Divide the dough into portions if you want multiple colors. Add a few drops of food coloring to each and knead by hand or mix until the color is even. You can create classic red and green or experiment with soft pastels.
- Pinch off small portions of dough and roll them into balls. If desired, roll each ball in granulated sugar to prevent sticking and add sparkle. You can also flatten them slightly with a fork for a traditional look.
- Place the mints on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm. Store in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to serve.
Notes
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer Friendly: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before serving.
