Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe
There’s something magical about soft, melt-in-your-mouth peppermint candies during the holiday season. These Soft Christmas Peppermints are a festive treat that balance sweet, creamy goodness with a refreshing peppermint flavor. They’re perfect for gifting, topping hot chocolate, or just enjoying straight from the kitchen.
Unlike hard candy, these peppermint treats stay tender and chewy, making them delightfully nostalgic and fun to eat. With a few simple ingredients, you can make a batch that will fill your home with the classic holiday aroma of peppermint and sugar.
Ingredients
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup (or glucose syrup)
- 2 tablespoons milk (any kind, dairy or plant-based)
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2–3 drops red food coloring (optional, for festive swirls)
- Additional powdered sugar for dusting
Substitutions
- Milk: Use almond, oat, or coconut milk for dairy-free.
- Corn Syrup: Honey or agave can work, though the texture may vary slightly.
- Food Coloring: Skip it for a classic white peppermint, or use natural beet or cranberry powder for color.
- Sweetener: For a sugar-free version, try a powdered erythritol blend instead of powdered sugar, though it may affect texture slightly.
Instructions
- Prepare the Work Surface
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly dust it with powdered sugar. This prevents the peppermint mixture from sticking. - Mix the Ingredients
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine powdered sugar, milk, and corn syrup. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly glossy. - Add Peppermint Flavor
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the peppermint extract. If using food coloring, add it now and swirl gently to create a festive marbled effect. - Shape the Peppermints
Let the mixture cool for a few minutes until it’s safe to handle but still pliable. Roll into small balls or use a small cookie scoop. Press slightly to flatten if desired. - Dust and Set
Roll each peppermint in additional powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and let them set at room temperature for at least 1–2 hours, or until firm. - Store and Enjoy
Transfer the set peppermint candies to an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Preparation & Cooking Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Set Time: 1–2 hours
Total Time: About 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 24–30 small candies
Serving Suggestions
These soft Christmas peppermints are versatile:
- Gift in decorative jars or cellophane bags with ribbon for a thoughtful holiday present
- Crush over hot chocolate or coffee for a minty kick
- Serve alongside cookies or other holiday desserts for a festive candy platter
Storage & Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain softness.
- Avoid refrigeration, as it can make the candies too firm.
- If the mixture becomes too sticky while shaping, lightly dust hands with powdered sugar.
FAQs
Can I make these sugar-free?
Yes. Use a powdered sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit blend. Note that the texture may be slightly different.
Can I add chocolate?
Absolutely! Drizzle melted sugar-free or regular chocolate over the peppermint candies for a festive touch.
Do I have to use red food coloring?
No, it’s optional. They taste just as delicious without color.
Can I make them larger or smaller?
Yes. Adjust the size to your preference, but keep in mind larger candies may take longer to set.
How long do these keep?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they remain soft and chewy for up to 2 weeks.
Festive and Fun in Every Bite
These Soft Christmas Peppermints capture the spirit of the holidays in every chewy, minty bite. They’re easy to make, fun to share, and bring a nostalgic sweetness to any festive gathering. Whether gifted, plated, or enjoyed with a cozy drink, they’re a cheerful treat that spreads holiday joy effortlessly.
Soft Christmas Peppermints
Ingredients
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup or glucose syrup
- 2 tablespoons milk dairy or plant-based
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- 2 –3 drops red food coloring optional, for festive swirls
- Additional powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare Surface: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and dust lightly with powdered sugar.
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine powdered sugar, milk, and corn syrup. Stir continuously until smooth and slightly glossy.
- Add Flavor & Color: Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract. Add food coloring and gently swirl for a festive effect.
- Shape Peppermints: Let mixture cool until pliable. Roll into small balls or use a cookie scoop. Flatten slightly if desired.
- Dust & Set: Roll each candy in powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Place on prepared sheet and let set at room temperature for 1–2 hours.
- Store: Transfer to an airtight container. Keeps at room temperature for up to 2
