The Magic of Soft Christmas Peppermints - Valerie Recipes

Name: The Magic of Soft Christmas Peppermints - Valerie Recipes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: Makes about 24 pieces
Ingredients: 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 cup corn syrup; 1/4 cup water; 1 teaspoon peppermint extract; 1/4 teaspoon red food coloring; 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Discover the joy of making soft Christmas peppermints at home with this delightful recipe. Perfect for holiday gatherings and gift-giving!

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-18T13:16:30.133Z

The Magic of Soft Christmas Peppermints are a nostalgic treat that brings back memories of holidays spent with family. These delightful mints are not only a festive addition to your dessert table but also a perfect gift from the heart. With their soft texture and sweet minty flavor, they are sure to bring smiles to everyone who tries them!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth
Refreshing mint flavor perfect for the holidays
Easy to make with just a few simple ingredients

      

The Joy of Homemade Treats

There’s something truly magical about crafting holiday treats in your own kitchen. The aroma of peppermint wafting through the air instantly brings back childhood memories of festive gatherings and cozy family moments. When you make soft Christmas peppermints at home, you’re not just making a delicious candy; you’re creating a cherished experience that can be shared with loved ones. The satisfaction of crafting your own sweets adds a personal touch to the holiday season.

Homemade treats also offer a unique opportunity to customize flavors and colors, making them perfect for any occasion. You can experiment with different extracts or adjust the sweetness to suit your taste. Plus, these soft Christmas peppermints can be made in batches and stored for later, ensuring you always have a delightful treat on hand to brighten someone’s day.

Perfect for Gifting

These soft Christmas peppermints are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a wonderful gift option. Packaged in festive boxes or jars, they make for thoughtful presents that show you care. Whether it’s for friends, family, or coworkers, everyone appreciates a homemade gift during the holidays. You can even personalize the packaging with a handwritten note or decorative ribbon to add that special touch.

Moreover, gifting homemade treats like these peppermints can be a great way to spread holiday cheer without breaking the bank. With just a few ingredients, you can create a stunning and delicious gift that’s sure to be remembered. Imagine the joy on a loved one's face when they receive a jar filled with these delightful, homemade candies!

Versatile and Fun

One of the best aspects of soft Christmas peppermints is their versatility. While the classic flavor is always a hit, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences. Consider adding other extracts like vanilla or chocolate for a flavor twist, or experiment with different colors to create fun, festive designs. You can even shape them into holiday-themed figures for added flair!

Additionally, this recipe allows for creativity in presentation. Whether you choose to roll them into traditional discs or shape them into fun forms, the possibilities are endless. This makes the candy-making process not only delicious but also incredibly fun for the whole family. Get the kids involved and let them unleash their creativity in the kitchen!

Ingredients

For the Soft Christmas Peppermints

2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup corn syrup
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
1/4 teaspoon red food coloring
1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a saucepan, combine corn syrup, water, and cream of tartar. Heat over medium heat until it comes to a boil. Remove from heat.

Add Flavor and Color

Add peppermint extract to the hot mixture. Gradually stir in powdered sugar until a soft dough forms. Divide the dough in half.

Color the Dough

Add red food coloring to one half and knead until evenly colored. Leave the other half white.

Shape the Peppermints

Pinch off small pieces of each color and roll into logs. Twist the two colors together and cut into small pieces.

Let Set and Enjoy

Place the pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them set for at least 2 hours before serving.

Storage Tips for Your Peppermints

Once your soft Christmas peppermints have set, proper storage is essential for keeping them fresh. Store the candies in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. A glass jar or a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid works perfectly. Layer parchment paper between the candies if you're stacking them, as this keeps them from sticking together.

If you plan to keep them for an extended period, consider refrigerating them. The cool temperature can help maintain their soft texture while keeping them flavorful. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving, so they remain soft and chewy.

Creative Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your soft Christmas peppermints, consider pairing them with hot cocoa or warm holiday beverages. Their refreshing mint flavor complements rich drinks beautifully, making for a delightful treat during chilly winter evenings. You can even crush some peppermints and sprinkle them on top of your favorite desserts for an extra festive touch.

Another fun idea is to use these peppermints as part of a dessert platter. Combine them with other holiday treats like cookies, fudge, and chocolates for a colorful and varied selection. Your guests will love the beautiful presentation and the variety of flavors, making your holiday gatherings even more special.

Tips for Success

To ensure your soft Christmas peppermints turn out perfectly, be mindful of the temperature during the cooking process. It's crucial to heat the mixture just enough to dissolve the sugar without burning it. Use a candy thermometer if you have one, as it helps ensure your mixture reaches the right consistency.

Kneading the dough is also an essential step. Make sure you knead it until the color is evenly distributed, as this will enhance not only the appearance but also the overall flavor. Lastly, don’t rush the setting time; allowing the candies to set properly will enhance their texture and make them easier to handle.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other flavors besides peppermint?

Yes! You can experiment with other extracts like vanilla or almond for different flavors.

→ How should I store the soft peppermints?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh.

→ Can I make these in advance?

Absolutely! These soft peppermints can be made a week ahead of time and stored properly.

→ What if my dough is too sticky?

You can add a little more powdered sugar to the dough until it reaches a manageable consistency.