Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

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There’s something truly nostalgic about biting into a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth peppermint that feels like it came straight from your grandma’s candy dish. Soft Christmas Peppermints, also lovingly known as Old-Fashioned Butter Mints, bring back those warm childhood memories with every bite. Made with just a handful of ingredients, these pastel-colored gems are an easy holiday treat that looks beautiful in a bowl and tastes even better.

These mints are perfect for gifting, setting out during holiday gatherings, or sneaking from the fridge one by one when no one’s looking. Their delicate texture, soft chew, and gentle peppermint flavor strike a perfect balance between refreshing and indulgent. And the best part? You don’t need any candy thermometer or fancy equipment to make them.

Why You’ll Love This Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it combines simplicity and charm in the most festive way. Whether you’re preparing for a cookie swap, stocking your holiday candy tray, or just want something sweet after dinner, these little butter mints always hit the spot. They’re also a fun kitchen project to do with kids, letting them roll and cut out pieces while enjoying the peppermint aroma.

Plus, they store beautifully, meaning you can make a big batch ahead of time and pull them out whenever you need a holiday pick-me-up.

Can I Use Different Flavors Instead of Peppermint?

Yes, absolutely! While peppermint is the classic and beloved choice for the holidays, this butter mint base takes well to all kinds of extracts. Try almond, lemon, or even orange extract for a unique twist. Just be sure to start small and taste as you go—extracts can be powerful.

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Ingredients for the Soft Christmas Peppermints

The magic of these soft mints comes from just a few pantry staples that work together to create something sweet, smooth, and delightfully old-fashioned. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Butter: This is the heart of the recipe, giving each mint its creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Powdered Sugar: Provides the structure and sweetness. It helps create the dough-like consistency that makes the mints easy to shape.
• Heavy Cream: Just a bit adds moisture and richness to balance the sugar.
• Peppermint Extract: The star flavor. It gives the mints their iconic coolness.
• Food Coloring (optional): Add red or green for festive holiday flair, or leave them white for a classic, snowy look.

How To Make the Soft Christmas Peppermints

Step 1: Cream the Butter

Start by beating the butter until it’s smooth and creamy. This is key to getting that perfect silky texture in the finished mints.

Step 2: Add Flavor and Cream

Mix in the peppermint extract and heavy cream. Beat until fully combined.

Step 3: Gradually Add Powdered Sugar

Slowly add in the powdered sugar, a little at a time, mixing well until a thick dough forms. It should be soft but not sticky.

Step 4: Color the Dough (Optional)

If you’re using food coloring, divide the dough and knead in the colors of your choice. Go with pastel pink, red, green, or keep some natural.

Step 5: Shape the Mints

Roll small portions of dough into long ropes, then cut into small bite-size pieces. If you like, gently press each piece with a fork for that classic butter mint look.

Step 6: Let Them Dry

Spread the mints out on parchment paper and let them air-dry at room temperature for at least 12 hours, or until the outsides are firm.

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How to Serve and Store These Mints

These soft peppermint candies are perfect for filling candy jars, topping off dessert platters, or giving in gift tins. Their pretty pastel hues and traditional charm make them feel like a holiday hug in candy form.

The recipe makes enough to serve about 10 to 12 people, depending on portion size. Once dried, store the mints in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks. They can also be frozen for longer storage and thaw beautifully.

What to Serve With Soft Christmas Peppermints?

Hot Cocoa or Peppermint Mocha

These mints melt gently into warm drinks, adding a sweet, creamy peppermint swirl to your favorite winter sips.

Chocolate Desserts

Pair them with chocolate cake, brownies, or truffles. The minty freshness cuts through rich chocolate beautifully.

Fruit Platters

Believe it or not, these mints offer a bright, cool note that goes surprisingly well with berries or citrus slices.

Shortbread Cookies

Add these mints to a cookie tray alongside buttery shortbread or sugar cookies for a classic holiday mix.

Holiday Cheese Boards

They bring a sweet break between savory bites—try placing a few among cheeses, nuts, and crackers.

Ice Cream Sundaes

Crumble a few on top of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a festive topping.

Mini Cupcakes

Use the mints as decorations or crush them and sprinkle over frosting.

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Want More Candy Ideas?

If you’re loving these Soft Christmas Peppermints, you might enjoy exploring more delightful treats like:

• Cherry-Topped Coconut Macaroons with tropical sweetness and a chewy bite.
• Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy for a bold, spicy crunch.
• Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars to repurpose those holiday sweets in the best way.
• Ooey Gooey Bars with layers of creamy richness.
• Irresistible Peanut Butter Truffles for those who love their candy smooth and nutty.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you color yours or leave them classic white? Try any flavor twists?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

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