As I walked past the holiday market, the crisp scent of peppermint filled the air, instantly transporting me to my childhood days of homemade treats. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of Soft Christmas Peppermints. These delightful no-bake confections are not only a breeze to make, but they also offer a festive touch that’s perfect for gifting or sharing at family gatherings. With a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a refreshing minty zing, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite. Plus, they’re gluten-free and vegetarian, making them a friendly treat for everyone. Ready to spread some holiday cheer with a homemade twist? Let’s dive into this simple yet indulgent recipe!

Why are Soft Christmas Peppermints a Must-Make?

Irresistibly Creamy: The soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture brings nostalgia with every bite.

No-Bake Simplicity: No oven required! Just mix, chill, and enjoy—perfect for busy holiday schedules.

Customizable Flavors: Easily swap peppermint for vanilla or almond to cater to everyone’s taste preferences.

Gifting Delight: Package them beautifully for a homemade gift that family and friends will adore. You might also enjoy pairing these with a festive Christmas Salad Honey for a sweet gift basket!

Crowd-Pleaser: Their vibrant appearance and delightful flavor make them the highlight of any festive gathering!

Soft Christmas Peppermints Ingredients

• Create your batch of Soft Christmas Peppermints with these must-have ingredients!

For the Dough

Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds creaminess and sweetness; avoid powdered milk as it won’t provide the moisture needed.
Butter – Provides rich flavor; opt for unsalted butter to keep the taste pure and balanced.
Powdered Sugar – Serves as the main sweetener for the mints’ structure; substituting is not recommended for best results.
Peppermint Extract – Infuses a refreshing mint flavor; you can switch to vanilla or almond for an alternative twist.

For Color and Appeal

Food Coloring (optional) – Use to customize your mints’ colors for a festive touch; a little goes a long way!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Christmas Peppermints

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 can of sweetened condensed milk and ½ cup of softened unsalted butter. Blend them together with a hand mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and creamy, avoiding any lumps. This initial blend creates the rich base for your Soft Christmas Peppermints.

Step 2: Incorporate the Sugar
Gradually sift in 4 cups of powdered sugar into the milk and butter mixture. Start mixing on low speed to prevent the sugar from flying everywhere, gradually increasing to medium speed. Continue to mix for approximately 3-5 minutes until you achieve a thick, dough-like consistency that holds together well, signaling that you’re ready for the next step.

Step 3: Add Flavor and Color
Stir in 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract into the thick dough, ensuring the refreshing flavor is evenly distributed. If you’d like to add some festive flair, mix in a few drops of food coloring at this stage for visual appeal. Continue mixing for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is well combined and beautifully colored.

Step 4: Chill the Dough
If the dough feels too soft to handle, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes. This chilling step allows the dough to firm up, making it easier to roll and shape your Soft Christmas Peppermints into delightful mints that maintain their form as they set.

Step 5: Shape the Mints
Once the dough is chilled and firm, take tablespoons full and roll them into 1-inch balls. Alternatively, you can use cookie cutters to create fun shapes. Place your shaped mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them enough space to prevent sticking. This step will help your Soft Christmas Peppermints look festive and inviting.

Step 6: Allow to Set
Let the mints sit at room temperature for about 1 hour to firm up completely. During this time, the mints will dry out slightly, achieving the perfect texture that’s reminiscent of traditional soft peppermint candies. Keep an eye on them; they should feel firm to the touch when ready.

Step 7: Store Properly
Once your Soft Christmas Peppermints have set, transfer them to an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can be stored at room temperature for up to one week. This ensures that their creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture is preserved, making them the perfect treat for holiday gatherings or as gifts.

What to Serve with Soft Christmas Peppermints

Indulging in these festive delights opens the door to a delightful array of pairing options that elevate your holiday spread.

Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy drink enhances the cool minty flavor, providing a cozy contrast to every bite of peppermint.
Gingerbread Cookies: The warm spices of gingerbread create a lovely balance to the refreshing mints, making an unforgettable holiday duo.
Fun Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits like strawberries and apples bring a burst of color and natural sweetness to complement the candies’ minty brightness.
Peppermint Bark: Layered chocolate and crushed peppermint create a festive flavor explosion that pairs harmoniously with your homemade mints.
Fizzy Lemonade: A zesty lemonade offers a refreshing zing that cuts through the sweetness, perfect for balancing your treat table with zest.
Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The sweet and salty combination perfectly contrasts the creamy sweetness of the Soft Christmas Peppermints for an irresistible bite.
Homemade Eggnog: A rich, spiced eggnog drinks provides warmth and indulgence, complementing the peppermint’s freshness for a festive treat combo.
Festive Cheesecake: Add a slice of herbal cheesecake for a unique twist—its creamy texture and richness meld beautifully with peppermint’s brightness.
Coffee or Mocha: The robust flavors of coffee pair ideally with the mints, creating a comforting experience with each sip and bite.
Sugar Cookies: Classic sugar cookies, especially when frosted, create a wonderful textural and flavor balance against the peppermint confections.

Make Ahead Options

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are perfect for busy home cooks looking to get ahead during the holiday rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the sweetened condensed milk, butter, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract, then chilling it in the refrigerator. Before shaping the mints, ensure the dough is firm enough to handle. Once shaped, allow the mints to set at room temperature for one hour. They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the fridge for a firmer texture. This method maintains their creamy, delightful quality, making your holiday preparations a breeze!

Soft Christmas Peppermints Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to mix things up as you craft your Soft Christmas Peppermints, adding your personal touch to these delightful treats!

Almond Extract: Swap peppermint extract for almond for a unique and warm flavor twist. It’s a delightful change that brings a new dimension to your confections.
Vanilla Extract: For those who prefer a sweet, comforting touch without the mint, vanilla extract works beautifully—adding a familiar, cozy aroma.
Colorful Mints: Add colorful sprinkles or crushed peppermint candies on the outside before they set for an extra festive vibe. This little touch of color will make your mints the star of any holiday gathering.
Coconut Sweetness: Incorporate shredded coconut into the dough for a tropical flair. The chewy texture of coconut pairs nicely with the creaminess of the mints.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the set mints for a luxurious twist! This indulgent addition will satisfy chocolate lovers at your holiday parties.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the dough for a surprising heat that contrasts beautifully with the cool peppermint flavor.
Mini-Mints: Shape the dough into smaller, bite-sized pieces for a fun twist. These mini delights are perfect for snacking or adding to dessert platters.
Gifting Bundles: Pair these mints with other homemade treats, like Christmas Cranberry Pinwheels, in a pretty box for a heartfelt gift that family and friends will treasure.

With these variations, your Soft Christmas Peppermints can truly shine as personalized masterpieces!

Expert Tips for Soft Christmas Peppermints

Quality Ingredients: Use premium sweetened condensed milk and pure peppermint extract for outstanding flavor; low-quality substitutes can lead to disappointing results.
Chill for Ease: If the dough is too sticky, chill it longer. A firm dough is easier to roll into perfect shapes for your Soft Christmas Peppermints.
Festive Finishing Touch: Roll finished mints in crushed peppermint candies or colored sugar to add a delightful crunch and festive appearance to these homemade treats.
Storage Strategy: Ensure your mints are in an airtight container to maintain freshness; soft peppermint candies left exposed may harden over time.
Batch Preparation: Consider doubling the batch to make sure you have plenty to enjoy or gift; these delightful confections disappear quickly during the holidays!

How to Store and Freeze Soft Christmas Peppermints

Room Temperature: Keep Soft Christmas Peppermints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, preserving their creamy texture and delightful flavor.

Fridge: For a firmer texture, store the mints in the fridge in an airtight container; they can last up to two weeks when chilled correctly.

Freezer: Freeze individual mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag; they can stay fresh for up to three months.

Reheating: No reheating required! Enjoy the mints straight from the fridge or freezer for a refreshing treat whenever you like.

Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe FAQs

How do I pick ripe ingredients for my Soft Christmas Peppermints?
Absolutely! The sweetness of the sweetened condensed milk is essential for your mints, so I recommend using a brand you trust. While there’s no ripeness to worry about for butter, make sure it’s fresh and unsalted for the best flavor. If you’re using food coloring, check that it’s still within its expiration date for vibrant hues!

How should I store Soft Christmas Peppermints?
Store your Soft Christmas Peppermints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’d like them to last longer, simply place them in the fridge where they can remain fresh for up to two weeks. The cool air will also give them a firmer texture that some people prefer.

Can I freeze Soft Christmas Peppermints?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Soft Christmas Peppermints, first, lay them out on a parchment-lined baking sheet without touching. Freeze them for about an hour, then transfer them into a freezer-safe zip-top bag, ensuring to remove any excess air while sealing. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. Just let them thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying!

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
Very! If your dough seems sticky and hard to handle, don’t worry. Simply chill the mixture in the refrigerator for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will firm it up, making it easier to shape into balls or cut with cookie cutters. If you find it sticky after chilling, you could also dust your hands with a bit of powdered sugar while shaping.

Are there any dietary considerations for making Soft Christmas Peppermints?
Absolutely! These mints are gluten-free and vegetarian, making them suitable for a variety of diets. However, if you have a severe peppermint allergy, you might consider using vanilla or almond extract as alternatives. It’s always a good idea to check if anyone has specific allergies before sharing your holiday treats!

How long before serving can I prepare Soft Christmas Peppermints?
You can definitely prepare your Soft Christmas Peppermints in advance! The dough can be made and chilled up to 24 hours ahead of time before rolling and shaping. Just ensure that the mints are allowed to set for at least an hour before serving. They’ll be just as delicious and enjoyable the next day!